It’s difficult to write something like this, even with tragedy happening around us everyday, one still feels the impact of every life loss, or every young person that was ‘gone too soon’. In my line of work, I have performed more eulogies than the average person, but I write this not to mourn a death, but to celebrate a life; in hopes that it will encourage you to fight to live.
I had the pleasure of meeting MarShawn McCarel as a guest on my radio show Any Given Sunday. MarShawn had messaged me via Twitter concerning a movement that he had launched to spark young people into action concerning various issues in Ohio. From our first meeting, I quickly learned that MarShawn was a forced to be reckoned with. He was young, courageous, and focused on serving others by any means.
Along with being a vocal Black Lives Matter advocate, the young leader founded two community service organizations: a mentorship program called Pursuing Our Dreams, and a charity for the homeless called Feed The Streets. McCarrel was known for his compassion towards the homeless, urging people to go beyond just giving food.
MarShawn was running with the baton, he was building a foundation for us all to stand on, he was not just talking about the problems that plagued America, he was an agent of change; actively engaged in the struggle. Now as with all great men, it seems that an inner struggle was also brewing.
Legacy is about you have built for others, about the imprint you make on the lives of those around you, and even those who have only heard about you.
God is speaking to us all. More specifically to you, the reader. The fact that you are living means that You are important, you have worth, and you have purpose. God gave you life, and his desire is that you live it, relentlessly. If you are battling in the valley of decision, do not isolate yourself, do not deny it, but confront it. Find someone you trust, someone you love, and share your thoughts and fears with them. There are many resources at your fingertips, you are not alone in this struggle. Contact http://www.sprc.org/states/ohio, or even call 1-800-273-TALK.
Let me leave you with two powerful truths. First and foremost God loves you. Secondly, He is a God of answers. Embrace His love for you today, and let Him help you find the answers to those questions you have.
Peace,
Yaves Ellis
