Just a brief post to let you know that on this September 17th day in 1849, Araminta “Minty” Ross, better known as Harriett Tubman, first escaped from slavery with two of her brothers. She returned however because her brothers had second thoughts and insisted on going back. It would take several more weeks before Harriett would escape again, this time by herself, to finally claim freedom. Although Harriett Tubman might not seem to have anything to do with September’s Recovery Month, she more than exemplifies the self-worth one must claim to break free from bondage of any kind.
As a little girl, I was spellbound by this bold black woman’s biography. Even as a child, I understood at a deep enough level, that Harriett’s self-worth moved her to re-claim her dignified self. To think that someone could travel by foot for approximately 90 miles to find freedom! And then later repeatedly risk her life to lead about 70 family and friends to freedom were the most courageous and self-worthy acts I’d ever heard. (history.com)
In elementary school, I put pencil to lined paper and composed a heartfelt account about Harriett. Since then, her story continues to remind me that all are worthy of being seen, heard, and valued. It also challenges me to ask how my self-worth is these days? To examine the worthiness of my words and actions toward others. To think about what might be holding me back in this season of my life. And how one must dig deep to rise above the bondages of our world to live a more dignified and divine story.
Call to Action
If you haven’t yet watched the 2019 movie, Harriett, I highly recommend it. My favorite part remains when Harriett faces a deep and tumultuous river with slave hunters and dogs closing in. Not to confuse this scene with the one of her jumping off a bridge into a river (which is powerful too), but in this one other lives are at stake and panic sets in. Have you ever been gripped by fear of what to do next? Watch the movie to see how Harriett manages her dire situation.