An Early Childhood Influencer

I still remember it as if it was just last week. My younger brother and I would get packed u p (we're talking the 80's ppl.) before the sunrise, and oftentimes didn't get to see our house again until the sunset. I can remember the smell, the feeling, the exhaustion all too well. I remember having to "help" when I didn't want to and didn't understand why I would even be asked to, but still would reluctantly comply.

What I didn't realize in those many moments was that I was among an in-person, real life change agent. If you aren't familiar with a change agent, let me help you define. A change agent is basically an angel that is sent to this earth to not only live, but help show others how to live and do so in such a way that follows a humble, giving, and empathetic path for those to follow. Did I know this at the time, hell no. But do I see it now? Hell yes. Stay with me here, please.

Growing up in what, at the time, would be called a "broken home" became my everyday norm. My parents did what some parents have to do to move forward with their lives to ensure the best possible foundation for their kids. Who wouldn't want that right? I never recall a moment where I felt my parents didn't love me. The thing I just never fully understood until recent years, is to the extent to which a parents love is willing to go to ensure their kids are safe, loved, and well cared for.

Today's world is far different than those years before us. In the times of women's equality, lives matter, etc. I still recall my mother doing what she loved to do, and essentially got paid by nearly an entire city and those surrounding. She supported local businesses, of which supported her. She was the jack to her trade and unmatched at the time. I still remember questioning why my mom was so "different" because she owned her own business. Shame on me.

You see, inspiration comes from many different angles. What sets a person apart from the rest, is their innate ability to see an opportunity and turn it into a profitable business that not only services its customers, but provides stability to families, including ours.

I don't recall a time where I went hungry. Where I questioned where I was going to sleep at night. If my brother and I were going to have a roof over our head or if we had parents that actually loved us and wanted the best for us. We may not have had the "material" possessions that many have come to feel are a necessary part of life, but we had what really mattered. We knew respect. We always had fun. We knew nothing beyond what kids should be exposed to. We knew, and still know, love.

I don't know that my story matters. It likely is similar to many others, but for me it is important to share my experience with you because my mom, to this day, still doubts herself. She's had the unfortunate experience of life, which everyone has to face at some point, but she is coming out stronger. She's coming out wiser. And what's more, she's coming out her.

I love you mom. Your kids love you (yes they know about this). You are an inspiration to more people that you could ever imagine and this was my very humble attempt to praise you and give thanks for showing me what is possible in this world. Love you!