By Terry Allen
If Lucille “Big Mama” Allen was alive during this new digital season, then her playbook would be trending on Twitter. She would be a TikTok sensation.
Now that is a good idea for any grandma today!
Today, she would say, “My Baby Bo, sometimes when you are in the shadow, you may be under the shadow of the Almighty.” She said it can mean “in the presence of God.” God will surround you as he protects when you are at your highest success or climb and the enemy comes for you.
Big Mama would always deliver her message in her special way. She would stand proudly with her hands on hips and speak from her space and dominion.
Big Mama left legacies that became part of lifetime lessons for all of us. Big Mama wanted us to know that no matter what, The Okey-Doke is real.
FYI, the term, “okey-doke,” meaning some sort of trick, game, scam, attempt to fool, shortchange designed to deceive or mislead.
But, she taught me how to seek knowledge, get the facts and find gratitude. Big Mama had ‘skin in the game’ so she was always a source of wisdom for many of us, especially me.
Of course, her stance was biblical and based on her faith. She poured into us from, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the most high will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
My life management would manage many circumstanc-es without a direct emotional reaction because I believed I stood in the shadow of the Almighty. Big Mama called it standing in the shadow, yet in modern day times it is also called level-headed thinking. The key is to continuously find peace and renew the purpose in your challenges.
Today we see random events with active shooters. We see a covert group of leaders determine the legality of rights for many. We see those who co-exist with us argue, disagree and fight.
Over a few months, I openly observed several subtle moves toward myself and others to make us unnecessary and expendable. This is a move by those who think that removing you from position and title will reduce your ability to contribute and/or minimize your power to lend your ‘gifts’ to others.
I have seen others mimic many of the selfless efforts I and others do. I have seen others openly take the ‘gifts’ of others and claim ownership with an in-kind intention.
Big Mama would say, “SMH” if she were here today. I am hopeful that we all get a chance to rise up and persevere. It can happen.
Look at Elizabeth Lynne Cheney, an American attorney and politician who has been the U.S. Representative for Wyoming’s at-large congressional district since 2017 and who has been a proven constitutional conservative and an advocate for a strong America. She has been steadfast in her stance for appropriate leadership.
I am also moved by the late Honorable Shirley Chisholm, who said, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”
I am reminded to stay in “the cleft of the rock” until God and Good steps in.
There are times when those around us will not walk with the Lord. Those who mean good must remain focused on the greater good and pray that those “allies,” too, come to repentance before God will cut them down.
Thanks Big Mama!
Terry Allen is an award-winning media professional, journalist, and entrepreneur. He is also the founder of City Men Cook and 1016 Media. Reach him at terryallenpr@gmail.com
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