I read this quote from the book Disruptive Thinking by Bishop T.D. Jakes, and it made me stop and think. Now, this is not a direct quote, but it went something like this, “When we are born, we are told we look like our parents but when we die, we look like our decisions.” There are two guarantees in life, and they are our birth date and our death date we do not know when our time will come so what we do in the time we have will tell our life’s story. I ask myself every morning what story do you want your face to tell Charles?
I am blessed because every morning I wake up is another day I can make a difference. I didn’t think that way in my twenties. When we are in our twenties, we feel invincible. When I look back at the things I did back then I am amazed that I made it to 59. We are often told not to look back but move forward but I think there are lesson that our past can teach us. It gives us the opportunity to not repeat the same mistakes and the hope is that we gain humility and understanding. It is what I hope for every day I get to walk this Earth. The opportunity to speak up for what is right and stand tall for those who are vulnerable and trying to find their voice. Dignity taught me that it is a purpose we should all strive for.
I have the opportunity as the first Diversity and Health Equity Officer of Berkshire Health System to make a difference in a county I have lived in for 36-years. I get to work with amazing people and organizations across this county to help those who are facing insurmountable challenges. You are not alone is what we tell our most vulnerable. We can’t move these mountains alone. It takes a community to do it. It takes us working together to help make a difference. I believe that because I have witnessed it. I have been given a chance to stand out front and be heard. I take this responsibility not to satisfy my own ego but to use the pulpit I have been given to speak for all the people we care for. I want to do what is right. It is my first, last, and only objective.
When people tell my story I want them to talk about the person I was and how I grew into the person I am. I want people to see my transformation from a dignity violator to a person who has come to understand that honoring dignity is how we should live. I want to know I made a difference and that in this world were things seem hopeless I was able to shine the light on hope. It has been difficult these past 2 weeks to believe that there is hope but I continue to pray for the strength to move forward and continue my journey of honoring dignity.
What decisions will you look like when it is your time? Only you can determine that.
Charles Redd RN
Dignity Freedom Fighter
Dignity Freedom Fighter 