“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.” (Psalm 23:1-3)
These words have been a lifeline to me, a source of strength and peace in the most turbulent seasons of my life. Reflecting on the 23rd Psalm, I see how God has walked with me through every challenge, every valley, and every shadow, preparing me for the purpose I now live out daily: to inspire and equip others to embrace their God-given potential, build their character, and live authentically as the people they were meant to be.
The imagery of a shepherd leading his sheep through green pastures and beside still waters speak to the faithfulness of God’s provision. For me, this provision wasn’t always material. At times, I had to walk with only my faith to sustain me, as when I left the familiarity of home to attend college with just $20 in my pocket. Or when I faced the monumental challenge of being a single mother to a daughter with a brain disease, abandoned by those who should have stood beside me. The Lord restored my soul time and again, giving me the strength to endure homelessness, racism, illness, and countless betrayals.
The Valley of the Shadow of Death
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4)
This verse resonates deeply because I have walked through many dark valleys. There were moments when the shadow of death loomed large, whether through financial despair, the betrayal of trusted colleagues, or a breast cancer diagnosis that tested my faith. Yet, even in these valleys, I felt God’s presence guiding me, comforting me, and shaping me into a vessel for His purpose.
It is in these valleys that the B.E.A.S.T mindset was born. The acronym—Bravery, Enthusiasm, Authenticity, Self-Control, and Thankfulness—embodies the traits that God cultivated in me during my trials. Bravery was forged when I stood against injustice in the workplace, refusing to let fear silence my convictions. Enthusiasm grew from a spirit of hope, even when circumstances were discouraging. Authenticity was solidified as I embraced my identity and refused to conform to others’ expectations. Self-control developed as I chose to respond to adversity with grace rather than anger. And thankfulness became a cornerstone of my life, allowing me to see God’s blessings even in the midst of hardship.
A Table in the Presence of My Enemies
“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.” (Psalm 23:5)
Throughout my journey, I have faced envious, jealous, and phony people—individuals who doubted my potential, dismissed my vision, or sought to undermine my success. Yet, God continually prepared a table for me in their presence, blessing me in ways that defied human expectation.
This table was not just a symbol of provision but a testament to God’s favor and purpose. Despite being underestimated, overlooked, and even ostracized, I prevailed. I rose to leadership roles in corporate America, achieving what many deemed unthinkable. I graduated from law school during the 2008 financial crisis, proving that determination and faith could overcome any obstacle. And most importantly, I found my voice and my calling—to inspire others to break free from limiting beliefs and become people of character.
The Overflowing Cup of Purpose
Psalm 23 reminds us that God does not merely meet our needs; He causes our cup to overflow. For me, this overflow is reflected in the creation of the B.E.A.S.T mindset and my message of character. It is a message rooted in my own experiences but designed to empower others.
As I reflect on my journey, I see how God has used every trial to equip me for this purpose. Each valley has taught me lessons that I now share with others—lessons about resilience, integrity, and the power of faith. My story is proof that character, as Booker T. Washington said, “not circumstances, defines the value of a person.”
Encouraging Others to Break Free
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” (Psalm 23:6)
This assurance of God’s goodness and mercy is the foundation of my encouragement to others. To the woman struggling to find her worth in a world that constantly tears her down, I say: You are more than your circumstances. To the professional battling anxiety, self-doubt, or workplace discrimination, I declare: You are equipped to rise above. To anyone who feels stuck, defeated, or unseen, I proclaim: Break free.
The B.E.A.S.T mindset is not just a framework for personal growth; it is a movement to cultivate a society rooted in character. It challenges individuals to embrace the qualities that lead to lasting success and fulfillment. And it invites them to join a community of like-minded people who are committed to living authentically and making a difference.
Final Thoughts
Psalm 23 is more than a beautiful poem; it is a roadmap for life. It reminds us that God is always with us, guiding us, providing for us, and shaping us for His purpose. My life is a testament to this truth. Every valley I walked through, every challenge I faced, was part of God’s plan to prepare me to serve Him fully.
Today, I stand as a witness to His faithfulness, inviting others to join me on this journey of transformation. The B.E.A.S.T mindset is my gift to the world—a tool to help others develop their character, fulfill their purpose, and live lives that glorify God. Together, we can break free from fear, doubt, and limitations, becoming the people God created us to be.
As the 23rd Psalm declares, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow us all the days of our lives.” Let us walk confidently in that promise, knowing that our Shepherd is leading us to a future filled with hope, purpose, and overflowing blessings.