They say the phoenix rises from the ashes, but I tell you this – I have risen stronger than a bison. My story isn’t just about survival; it’s about transformation. When people ask why a non-practicing attorney was chosen to speak about success, I smile. Because success isn’t about titles – it’s about character, and character is forged in the fires of adversity.
The Power of S.O.A.R.
Let me share with you what I’ve learned about true success through my journey of S.O.A.R.:
Survive
In 2009, I found myself facing homelessness with my seven-year-old daughter after law school graduation. The 2008 financial crisis/recession hit, and for the first time in my life, I didn’t get the job I wanted. There I was, a law school graduate calling the Salvation Army for shelter. Survival isn’t just about existing – it’s about maintaining your dignity when life strips everything else away.
Overcome
Overcoming isn’t just about getting past obstacles – it’s about transforming them into stepping stones. I had to humble myself, ask for help, and move to Texas despite opinions against it. In that transitional home, alongside women who hadn’t finished high school, I learned that true character isn’t measured by degrees but by the strength of your spirit.
Achieve
Achievement isn’t what the world tells you it should be. It’s not about the title “attorney” or the corner office. Real achievement comes when you discover your divine purpose. For me, that meant becoming a storyteller, a champion of character, and a leader in the revolution of values. As a result of my struggles I discovered my E-Power: to Encourage, Enlighten, Entertain, and most of all, Empower.
Rise
Rising is about more than elevation – it’s about transformation. Like the phoenix, I emerged from the ashes of my old definition of success, stronger than ever. When your light disrupts the darkness, when your authentic self makes others uncomfortable, that’s not failure – that’s impact. That’s purpose in action.
The Character Revolution
We are in the midst of a revolution – not of weapons, but of values. Of character. Let me tell you what I’ve learned about character:
– It’s not built in comfort, but carved in challenges
– It’s not about what you have, but who you become
– It’s not about fitting in, but standing out with purpose
The Power of Divine Disruption
Your presence should be felt. Your authenticity should create ripples. When you walk in divine purpose, you naturally illuminate what others prefer to keep in shadow. This isn’t arrogance – it’s alignment. Your light doesn’t dim others; it invites them to shine brighter.
Call to Action
To every person reading this:
1. Break free from society’s manual of success
2. Let your character, not circumstances, define you
3. Remember that setbacks are setups for comebacks
4. Stand firm in your truth, even when it makes others uncomfortable
Closing
Jim Rohn said, “Success isn’t something you chase; it’s something you attract by the person you become”. In my new music track called Break Free, I said “The phoenix has risen stronger than a bison,” because true power isn’t in what we achieve, but in how we transform.
Remember this: You are not here to fit in. You are here to stand out, to stand up, and to stand firm. Your light might disrupt the darkness, but that’s exactly what the world needs.
S.O.A.R. high, break free, and become the B.E.A.S.T (Brave, Enthusiastic, Authentic, Self-controlled, and Thankful), that person of character you were created to be.
The world isn’t waiting for another success story. It’s waiting for your story of transformation.