The past few months have been enlightening, as we have begun to really focus on how our time is spent, and what we are doing to add value to our lives and the lives of others. This week, my girls and I took a trip to Columbia (yes to Mizzou), with Lathon Ferguson who had been invited by the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. to conduct a professional development workshop during their The Greatest Show on Earth Alpha Week activities. I did not intend that we would stay with him at the workshop, but the energy in the room was so infectious, it wouldnt allow us to leave. The invitation came through relationships Lathon has built with some of his brothers through his work with INROADS, and it was inspiring to see the love and respect the young men have for him and the appreciation they had for him traveling there and back within a few hours to give back to the organization he loves. I am so proud that he showed these young men one of the many benefits that comes from membership, lifelong brotherhood, commitment to causes greater than oneself and a network of individuals who are willing to lend a hand to help them transcend any hurdles that life may present. It was especially heartwarming that this act was done on the eve of Lathons 10th Anniversary as a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I love the special connection he has built with the ZA Chapter over the years and watching the young men embrace him was moving. While I am Lathons biggest fan and am well-aware of the many talents he possesses, the girls and I were blown away at how dynamic he was in his presentation and awestruck that the college kids stayed around until nearly 10 pm to further engage with him. He has a very special way of connecting with young people, and watching the students (some of whom were female and other non-Alphas) hang on to his every word motivated me to figure out how to further support him in his obvious calling to work with youth. My Love, you are truly gifted! Never be apologetic for who you are, while some fail to see your value (today), you are obviously destined to be a leader and should not resolve to shrinking so that other people wont feel insecure around you. Given your work with your brothers and your presentation to your daughter on Sunday at her Rites of Passage Ceremony, I cant wait to see your future. You are truly my CEO and I love all that you are. Enjoy your Alphaversary celebration this weekend, and congratulations to you and the men of A.S. Shen Kimi, you do Alpha proud!
Posted on: Fri, 04 Apr 2014 22:30:18 +0000