Today, my father, Moses L. Perry, would have been 90 years old. During the 18 years he spent working on the African continent, (Jinja, Uganda, Lagos, Nigeria and finally, Accra, Ghana), he left a unique legacy of international leadership, especially among thousands of youth and young adults.
We acknowledge our stories, lessons and accomplishments knowing that there was a foundation that was laid somewhere in our personal histories.
On the eve of his birth date, I received a formatted version of my new book Rise! My book dedication honors my parents as my ‘base camp’. We live on the hills, valleys, rivers and mountains of life. And on the mountains of my life, they certainly were my foundation. Everything starts from some individual source and ultimately, the same Source.
As I reflect back on the impact my father’s imagination and life choices had on his family, and those he served throughout his career, it helps me connect the dots between where I have been, where I am now and the direction in which I am headed.
Yes, we have choices and we can course correct along our way. However, our journeys often have a sense of destiny – we believe there is something, no matter what it is, that is ours to do. Something that represents our purpose, our gifts, our reason for being on the planet.
Let’s all remember to honor those who have been significant landmarks along our individual and collective paths. Those who have laid a foundation for who we are today. Those we honor may have been international or national heroes who may have impacted the lives of millions, or, they may be someone completely unknown to the public eye. They all matter. Remember them.
In gratitude,
