Monday Musings... Mississippi

“A child born to a black mother in a state like Mississippi … has exactly the same rights as a white baby born to the wealthiest person in the United States.  It’s not true but I challenge anyone to say it is not a goal worth fighting for.

Thurgood Marshall

Conversations on the beach…

On the beach, we are joining others enjoying this sunny afternoon.  We see folks walking, running, building castles, reading, relaxing, walking dogs, riding bikes, and fishing. After days of chilly temperatures, we are taking advantage of this glorious weather.

Jerry and I are soaking in the last days of our beach vacation. In front of us, I see a man wearing an interesting t-shirt. HEROMAKER. I cannot resist, I ask, “What is a HeroMaker?” He explains a Hero Maker is someone who pours into the life of an individual.

With that question and answer, we begin a conversation that begins here in South Carolina, goes to Anderson, Indiana, turns to Dayton Ohio, and take us to Lauderdale County in Mississippi.  Is this a coincidence? If we had arrived at the beach earlier or later, we might have missed the opportunity to talk to this pastor.  

At every point of the conversation, I have chills on a warm sunny afternoon.  He attended Anderson College. My father attended Anderson College. He pastored a church near Dayton, Ohio. My husband grew up in Dayton. Jerry’s cousin played football with his son when they attended the same high school.  Then, I ask, are you from Indiana?  He shared, “No, I was born and grew up in Mississippi.” What part of Mississippi?

Both of these men were born in the 1950's two years apart in Lauderdale, County, Mississippi. Their experiences were in stark contrast to each another. One family owned a business, while the other family experienced poverty and segregation.

Today, many differences melt away in the sun.  Change, perseverance, struggle, determination, and most amazing is that both have experienced God’s grace are part of their story.

Our conversation continues as we share our Christian faith, our families, and our goal to pour and mentor the next generation.

What unites complete strangers to engage in deep conversation?  It is the God of the universe.  It is God who delights in bringing people from different tribes, languages, cultures and backgrounds. After all, God's kingdom is an everlasting one and totally different from today’s culture. God’s kingdom does not show partially.