I have to admit, I am probably the world's worst historian. It's not that I don't enjoy learning about history. In fact, one of my favorite classes in college was US History. I even seek out literature and documentaries about former presidents and events. I enjoy learning about how people lived, survived hardships, cultivated new solutions to problems, and have evolved over the centuries. The problem is that none of the information sticks in my head. I am a very visual learner, so if I don't watch a TV show about it, or read an author that is able to paint a clear picture, you can count on the fact that I won't be able to recall the information later. I have tried and tried to remember certain parts of history, especially US history, but my brain just can't wrap itself around everything. I can't remember what was going on, who was involved, why something occurred, the date in which it occurred, and who was president etc. unless the information is personal. There are a few people I have learned about in history that have inspired me. I make a real connection with these people, because they have given their lives to make significant changes in this world. I am someone who has very strong convictions and a huge heart for those who are in tough circumstances. Large social issues bother me more than most people, and I always wonder why I spend so much mental and emotional energy on people I have never met, and will never meet. Do I constantly think about the victims of child abuse, sex trafficking, and orphans because I am suppose to pray for them? I do pray for them, but can't help wondering if I should do more. What is my role in resolving these issues that seem larger than life? Sometimes I think God has given me a vision to do something big and great to alleviate issues such as these. Other times, I am faced with the reality of my limitations...which are many. Some days I seem so motivated to positively influence this world, and other days, its brokenness and cruelty paralyze me. I dream about offering truth, justice, and restoration to people who need it. I am not sure what that looks like in the long run. Perhaps I will one day work for an organization that helps women looking to get out of prostitution. Maybe I will come up with curriculum that will empower children who are being violated, to speak up for themselves. Maybe Chris and I will have the opportunity to adopt and meet other orphans who we can influence long term. Who knows what God will do with my life if I fully give it to Him. There is one lady in history that reminds me of God's devotion to those whom are willing to dream, pursue, and lean on God. She reminds me that with God, all things are possible...in HIS timing. Her accomplishments are uplifting to those who need a reminder, that God equips those whom He calls. She is one of the people that keeps me dreaming. Her actual name, you may not recognize: Araminta Harriet Ross.
Harriet Tubman was born a slave, escaped, served as a nurse, spy, and scout in the Civil War. She was the first woman to lead an armed assault in the Civil War and the first woman to receive a Nobel Peace Prize. She is best known for her work as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, where she helped free over 300 slaves. She wasn't extremely educated. She wasn't even healthy. She suffered from seizures, headaches, and narcoleptic episodes. Nonetheless, she returned not once, but 19 times to free her family and others.
My dad once said to me, "Lauren, the thing that scares me the most about you is; If there is an easy way to do something, and a hard way, you always choose the hard way." In a way, that is one of the best compliments I have ever gotten. I mean, Harriet Tubman always chose the hard way. Perhaps its a sign of greatness. WINK Ok, or in my case, just a lack of being efficient. :( Back to Harriet...She didn't seem to fear capture, torture, or death. I mean, this lady was crazy. If she were captured, her death would have been slow and painful. For some reason, that fear didn't paralyze her. She had an out too, ya know. She could have just said, "it's too dangerous to go back into enemy territory with my health issues." She didn't. She had a choice to go the easy route or the hard route. Time after time, she chose the hard route. She chose not to get overwhelmed by the thousands of people enslaved, but to go after a few...a little at a time. She had conviction, passion, and the Lord on her side. She was unstoppable. What if more of us had her attitude and conviction? What would God do with it?
"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."- Harriet Tubman
PS as a side note...I did a presentation on the Underground Railroad in college, and actually sang "Go Down Moses" to the class. Perhaps I have more guts than I give myself credit for. HA.
