Why were you born?

May you live long enough to know why

Actress Viola Davis’ birth home

Twitter link: August 11, 2020

I've been told that reading biographies is a great way to be mentored by people you would otherwise never meet in person. That was certainly the case with a book I recently read, Viola Davis' memoir "Finding Me."

When you hear her story, you realize that all her circumstances would say she shouldn’t have a chance in life. She grew up in abject poverty in Central Falls, Rhode Island. She experienced abuse at the hands of many people, including her dad and brother. Rats infested their home, and she even went to school in urine-soaked clothes because they lived in an abandoned building with no water.

How did she overcome all this? She was determined to be something more AND someone gave her a chance. Her break came when she was 15. Bernard Masterson recognized Viola's talent and granted her a scholarship for a performing arts school he directed, setting her on the path to becoming an Academy Award-nominated actress.

I grew up in a middle-class home and never had to worry about where my next meal would come from or whether I'd have clean clothes to wear. My parents gave us a great life. Even though my upbringing was quite different, Viola's story inspires me deeply. It’s incredible how she endured so much yet was able to persevere because she was determined to overcome her circumstances and chase her purpose. She also had people who saw her talent and believed in her.

“May you live long enough to know why you were born.” — CHEROKEE BIRTH BLESSING

Are you living the life you were meant for? At times, I find myself chasing comfort rather than pursuing significance. When do we turn the corner and live authentically — pursuing our reason for being on this earth? Furthermore, is there someone you cross paths with who needs a hand to lift them up? You might just be the one to change their world.

I recently saw the movie “Air”¹ in which Viola has a role. It’s impressive to see her at this level after knowing the difficult road she traveled. Pick up or better yet LISTEN² to her tell the story. May it inspire you to live the life you were meant to live.

Have an amazing and productive week!

1. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt16419074/ (fun movie!)

2. https://a.co/d/1PUFkkm