"A Salute to An African- American" Role Model

Black History Is 365 Days A Year and Sometimes 366 Days- In February 2020, a local law firm sponsored a Black History Essay Contest. Essay should be 500 words or less and should discuss African- American who has been an inspiration in your life. Losing made me stronger. I have learned that you don't always have to win to be a winner. In fact, sometimes it's better to lose. February is Black History month. This month is memorable, as I reflect on outstanding African-American who has made positive contributions to me. As I go through life, I often meet people who have lasting impressions upon us. The magnitude of her service is just impossible for me to describe. How can I describe the qualities of this outstanding hero? She is a powerful role model, my mother, my mentor, my leader, my teacher, my counselor, and my friend. This honoree is best described as the most unusual, caring, supportive, loving, kind, patient, friendly, and understanding. She is an ideal example of a "True Role Model."

This famous African-American leader has a big, big heart. I did not have the opportunity to be reared by my surrogate mother. When I was one year old, my mother moved to Nashville Tennessee to seek employment. I was left without a mother and father. My graciously grandparents became my parents and guardian. This was the moment in time when Judge Tammy D. Lee became by sweet, loving mother.

Judge Lee exemplifies the heart of God: a heart that cares, a heart that reaches out, a heart that forgives; and heart that never says no. She is highly motivated, energetic, and dedicated in striving to make a difference in my life.

I had the opportunity to win Mr. Deltafest representing the City of Monroe for two years. The goal of the contest was to raise the highest amount of money. She was successful in helping me to raise $2, 300. In, 2010, I was honored and crowned Little Mister DeltaFest. I participated in various activities: Black Rodeo Parade and Show, Concerts, Boo at the Zoo, Kansas City Train Ride, Lightning of the Christmas tree at the Civic Center, African American Parade, Easter Egg Hunt at the Zoo Thank you Judge Lee for purchasing many costumes and outfits while I was serving as Mr. DeltaFest. I had the opportunity to win again in 2011. You were there again to support me again in attendance and financially.

On September 25, 2015, my caring and supportive grandfather whom I considered dad, buddy and mentee passed away from this earth. This was the most depressed time in my life. I was truly blessed to have Judge being there for me when I needed her. She took time to counsel me weekly at Books-A-Million. After counseling, she would purchase a book for me. Then, Judge took me out to eat. I am so grateful for her stepping in to comfort me during the loss of my loved one. Can you imagine losing someone who has played an important role in your life? I never could have made it without Judge Lee. I have become stronger and wiser.

I salute Judge Tammy D. Lee. Thank you for the life lessons –encouraging me to excel academically, to become actively involved in extracurricular activities, to develop positive relationships, and to strive to become strong, independent man. I recalled from our counseling sessions: in life, you will encounter detours, roadblocks, curves and U-turns along this journey. You taught me to never give up when faced with challenges, to pick up yourself and dust off when you fall, and to create another plan of action when the first one does not work.

Photo Randall Deandre Bishop

Photo Judge Tammy Lee