The Lessons of 48

As I approach another blessed birthday it always causes me to reflect in God's goodness, life and the lessons learned. My view of life is that people should always be learning and growing at every stage. Stagnation means a person is just existing .

My 47th year was filled with blessings, some disappointment and a significant death. The children at Frontline continued to progress. Close $5,000 in scholarships were provided to alumni in college. Read and Succeed had another successful year. Two of the Junior Magic teams won championships. The Five Year Vision was unveiled at the Benefit Luncheon.


Personally, my son Tre' graduated from high school. Armand, my youngest son had a successful year academically and in track. I was appointed as one of the 17 Strong City and Strong Cities Fellows in the City of Chester and resumed studies toward a Doctorate in Education at Widener University.

My 47th year marked the loss of my beloved Aunt Sheila whose birthday is August 13. Additionally, I experienced growing pains and transition issues due to expanding my role in urban America. In all of this I realize that there is not progress without struggle. As my uncle Eddie Woodley "The Chief" used to say,"Anything worth having is worth working for."

It has been said that the number 48 is a mixture of transition and new beginnings.  Also, it is represents the majesty of God and knowing and seeing Him.  I am a work in progress and know that I am still learning and growing. In that vein, as I approach 48 years here are some of the key lessons learned.

48 Life Lessons

1. God is Sovereign and is in control!
2. It's all about relationship, relationship, and relationship.
3. When you pursue God's purpose there will be opposition.
4. When you invest in children you never lose.
5. There is nothing like true friends.
6. Being a father if one of God's greatest gifts.
7. Love and family make life worth living.
8. Doing what's right doesn't mean you'll be liked.
9. Raising sons is a honor, privilege and divinely important.
10. You have take time to rest, recharge and regroup.
11. Solitude and time alone with God is vital to spiritually growth.
12. Being attacked does not invalidate God's call.
13. God's love and forgiveness can heal people and lives.
14. Education is one of the keys to uplift.
15. In urban America the keys to revitalization are: prayer, leadership, infrastructure and resources.
16. It is easier to criticize and harder to help.
17. There is never an excuse to be rude.
18. What people say and do show what is in their heart.
19. Extravagant thanks is always in order.
20. There are no short cuts to building a great team.
21. Never work with a person who doesnt share a passion for your purpose.
22. You can't beat God giving.
23. Always treat people well, even when they don't appreciate it.
24. Live your life with dignity and class.
25. Whatever you do, do it will all your heart unto God.
26. Love doesn't threaten.
27. The need of the hour is leadership.
28. Becoming a leader starts with developing your character.
29. Don't let your disapointment impede your purpose.
30. Opportunity is like rain, its everywhere you just have to catch it.
31. God's blessings are not diminished by difficulty they become even more valuable.
32. Don't let your obstacles obscure your opportunities.
33. Common sense ain't so common.
34. It's not rocket science.
35. The Church needs to regain its urban mission
36. It is better to be prepared for an opportunity that never comes than to be unprepared when one comes.
37. Don't pass your issues on to your kids. Get help if you need it.
38. Family is where were life direction is determined. Home environment is critical.
39. Parents don't just pray for your children. Pray with them.
40. Men don't let your imperfections keep you from trying.
41. No matter how many times you fall, keep getting back up.
42. Love with your whole heart, don't hold back.
43. Honor your father and mothers while you can.
44. See yourself, know yourself and take care of yourself.
45. Always listen, even if you diagree you might learn something.
46. A friend is born for adversity.
47. Own your own junk.
48. Every Birthday is a blessings!

As I approach my next birthday, I solicit the prayers of my friends that I move closer to God's purpose. Also, that I reflect His grace and purpose. Thank you for celebrating 48 with me!