Thinking back on the many women and men that have had influences on my life, I have learned so much from them. I give thanks to God for granting me time, space, and their love. The values instilled are not taken lightly. Actually, their woven into the core of my being.

One of those impactful women was Mrs. Teketa “Keta” Lockett-Brown, mother of one of my close childhood to college lifelong friends. I credit her as one of the reasons I am a Rattler and political campaign strategist. In our mourning her passing, I’m reminded of a share out of one of her favorite mantras “be particular”.

Being particular cannot just be limited to thoroughness or conciseness. There must be intention behind it. Well thought out and masterful curation. As we navigate life, I am guilty of fusing “be particular”–not only to one’s own intention, but those of others. It’s a mental and spiritual ode to not just acting or doing. But being present and owning in the moment. Thinking through that helps me accept people (and their actions) just for what they are. And not what I want them to be.

In remembering her, she was intentional with her love, grace, and inspiration to others. That was her “be particular.” If others tap into just a bit of it the world would be a better place.

Likewise, I cannot forget the family icon and legend in our hearts. A meticulous touch and fierce loving approach was her divine gift (among others). God blessed us by giving us her, and at the same time damned us because she was a one-of-a-kind collector item for His kingdom and glory first.

The – Sandra Tucker Bethel. When don’t I find myself needing a filling of the void her presence has left? Only to have to give it to God because he is the center of it all.

But what I appreciate most about her was her meticulous design. Not only was God an engineer and architect in crafting her but passed that illumination on to her. She was thoughtful and well-crafted in her actions. Be it shopping, cooking, creating space for family, or doing the work for His kingdom. There was not a half step to be seen.

It was her social, spiritual, mental, physical, and academic portfolio. A body of work to be researched, observed, strategized, implemented, and evaluated – only so that you could dream of replicating the greatness that was ordained and lived out before your eyes.

Yet again, the lesson to be learned here is unwavering intentionality. Prayed about and acted on. Leaving the rest to faith. Selah.

The value is in what you take from it. Not what it gives you. Because the gift with the giver is bare. And giving is a particular and intentional act. Be it through love, service, inspiration, or communalism.

Be encouraged. And be present.

Image from Freepik.com