Growing up in the projects, we learned early on the importance of community and resilience. Life was tough, and making ends meet often meant relying on welfare, but we always had each other's backs. Love was our currency, and in those challenging times, it was our bond with one another that sustained us.
As we move forward in life, we must take a moment to reflect on the lessons we learned in those early years. Every year that passes is a reminder to prioritize our lives with intention, lifting each other up just as we did back then. Putting God at the center of our lives, as highlighted in Matthew 6:33, is essential. When we "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness," we invite clarity, guidance, and blessings that exceed our understanding, much like the unexpected kindnesses we found in each other.
Our upbringing taught us that faith, love, and service are the foundations of a meaningful life. Each moment we have is an opportunity to strengthen our connection with God and to foster that same sense of community we cherished. By embracing these values, we not only carve out a legacy for ourselves but also inspire those around us to do the same. Just as we thrived together back then, we must continue to support one another on this journey, knowing that when we put God FIRST, we are never truly last.