Oooh God, We Thank You for Tabitha Brown!

By The Wordy Professor

“Whatever changes we long for in our lives, we have to do our part.”

– Tabitha Brown

(Amazon)

Tabitha Brown’s videos have been a part of my social media landscape for the past two years. No matter what kind of day I’m having, when I see her winning smile (with the perfect teeth), Donna (her afro) on point, and hear that, “Hello There,” my day gets a little brighter.

I have been waiting for the right time to write about this beautiful soul. Her spirit is infectious, and her light is undeniable. Her down-home charm has gained her the title of America’s Mom. I know that I’m not alone in my admiration of Brown. She has a way of relating to everyone that makes the rest of us wonder just how she does it. Although we have seen her star rise to the top like a bolt of lightning in the past two years, her journey is a long one of hope, perseverance, and faith.

Brown is a true example of what being real is all about. And because of that transparency, she has won over the masses. She has shown the world what it looks like to never give up on a dream. She harnessed her power as an influencer and accomplished so many amazing things. Her Sunshine All Purpose Seasoning sold out in 39 minutes when it debuted earlier this year, and it’s still a hot commodity!

I just started reading her book, Feeding the Soul (Because It’s My Business): Finding Our Way to Joy, Love, and Freedom (William Morrow, 2021), but waiting to write about this treasure until after I finish it is not an option! Why? Because “that’s my business!” This book is so good that I must digest it slowly – one chapter at a time. I believe that Brown’s story will change lives and inspire people to follow their dreams. She also shares some of her favorite vegan recipes!

I’ve only gotten halfway through the book so far, and I can already see that it will be a “go-to” when I need that extra push.

Brown drops some major gems in the process but spares no feelings. She willingly shares significant parts of her journey. The highs and the lows. The good and the bad. The wins and the losses. It’s refreshing to see such openness because it reminds us that we are all cut from the same cloth. Those who actively pursue their dreams and never give up are the ones who will see them come to pass.

There is so much wisdom that lies within the pages of this book. So far, these are the chapters that have resonated with me the most (spoiler alert).

Chapter 2: You Have to Fix It First

“Whatever changes we long for in our lives, we have to do our part.”

Brown gives us the truth, the whole truth, and nothing BUT! She talks about doing the “hard things” to become successful. This is powerful for many reasons. People often think that just because they have a dream, it will automatically manifest itself. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. Just because you want or desire something doesn’t mean that it’s going to just happen. What are you doing to ensure that the dream comes to fruition? Are you putting in the work or waiting for someone to rescue you? This chapter reminds me of a concept that I embraced years ago. Dr. Wayne Dyer has a book called The Power of Intention (Hay House 2006). The message is clear: Whatever you desire for your life, you must actively work on it. Even if it’s the smallest thing. If you are doing something that takes you closer to your goal every day, you are living in what Dyer calls the field of intention. In Brown’s words, “you have to fix it first!” She challenges us to be invested in our own dreams.

Chapter 3: Everyone Can’t Go

“The best bet you’ll ever make is the one you make on yourself.”

This chapter had me rejoicing! Probably because I shared something to this effect on my Instagram page over a month ago. So, baby – I felt that thang!

Brown reminds us that some people are dreamers and others are more comfortable dealing with the tangible. Those of us who have lofty dreams like to share them with others. One of the hardest pills to swallow is to accept that everyone will not be as excited about your dream as you are. I had to learn this, too. When we have a great idea, we want to immediately tell others so that they can feel the same thrill. But that dream was not given to them. And that means that there are times when we must walk alone.

When Brown decided to go vegan, her family was not on board. She could have easily chosen to forego that option as well. But she didn’t. She had to walk that path alone for a while. Sometimes, people can’t see what you see when it comes to your future, but that’s okay. As long as you continue to walk toward it and put some “work behind your faith,” you will prevail. Don’t worry about the people who can’t see your vision – it’s not meant for them to see. Just remember that you have the power to set it in motion and see it come to fruition. Some people may feel “some type of way” when they see you pursuing your dreams, but you must remain steadfast on your faith journey. Once those around you see that you are manifesting your destiny one day at a time, they will understand your drive. And it may also inspire them to finally pursue their own goals.

Chapter 5: Your Personal Prescription

In this chapter, Brown reiterates the importance of understanding that our dreams were prescribed specifically for us. She uses the analogy of someone trying to wear glasses that were prescribed for someone else. We all know that trying to see clearly while wearing something that was specifically prescribed for someone else is nearly impossible. Brown admits that her husband did not see her vision for a long time. Then, she had to remember that her mother told her that it wasn’t meant for him or anybody else to see. That is profound. A lot of people become frustrated and feel unsupported when others can’t see their vision – especially when those “others” are family. Instead of getting upset, stay focused and put all that energy into your dream.

We can’t worry about whether other people will see what we know to be true. It’s not for them to know. It’s not for them to understand. It’s not for them to make you feel secure in your knowing. Just trust the process.

I’m sure that you will be moved by Brown’s words as well. This book is encouraging on many levels. It certainly confirmed many things for me. On the days (and sometimes weeks) when I feel drained and weary on my journey because it just seems too hard, I will remember stories like these. Pursuing dreams at any stage in life can be a challenge. But stepping out in pursuit of something greater when your life is already good can be downright exhausting. But when you know that your greatest desire is to reach your goals so you can give back to others, it will all be worth it.

Now that’s a word! Did you feel any of this, too?

“Very good!”