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Tuesday, 27 August 2024
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Written by Jamie Bishop
Dr. Stephon Ferguson, an esteemed author and inspirational speaker, is widely recognized as a contemporary embodiment of the principles championed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His most recent publication, "Legacy Reloaded: A Nonviolent Awakening," is a testament to his lifelong commitment to upholding and furthering the tenets of nonviolence that were fundamental to Dr. King's mission. Ferguson's remarkable ability to channel the voice and aura of Dr. King has garnered global acclaim. Whether delivering speeches from the historic pulpit of Dexter Avenue in Montgomery, Alabama, or at the prestigious Teatro Lope de Vega in Madrid, Spain, his presentations have profoundly resonated with individuals of diverse ages, cultures, and backgrounds.
Not mere recitals, his interpretations of Dr. King's orations constitute a profound educational experience designed to reignite the ethos of love, nonviolence, peace, and unity. In "Legacy Reloaded: A Nonviolent Awakening," Ferguson applies the same zeal and authenticity evident in his public appearances to his literary endeavors. Through evocative narratives and incisive analysis, he sheds light on the often-overlooked influence of nonviolence in shaping historical events. The book effectively advocates for the enduring potency of nonviolent activism as a catalyst for constructive societal transformation, furnishing a timely contemplation of its relevance in the contemporary milieu.
I entered Panera Bread on Ramsey Street, and a warm, golden light spilled through the large windows, casting a cozy glow over the bustling café. A few patrons were scattered across the room, engaged in quiet conversations or absorbed in their laptops. Amidst the gentle clatter of plates, I spotted Dr. Stephon Ferguson seated calmly at a corner table near the window.
Dressed in a polo shirt and jeans, Dr. Ferguson exuded quiet confidence. His calm and poised demeanor seemed to draw an invisible circle of serenity around him, a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere of the café. As I approached, he greeted me with a warm smile, his presence immediately putting me at ease. I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement—here I was, about to interview the man known for bringing the voice of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. back to life.
After we exchanged pleasantries, I settled into my seat, and the interview began. "Dr. Ferguson, your ability to channel Dr. King's voice is extraordinary. How did you first realize that this was something you could do?" I asked, eager to dive into the heart of his journey.
He paused thoughtfully before answering. "It wasn't something I planned, to be honest. I was drawn to Dr. King's speeches from a young age. The more I listened, the more I felt this deep connection to his words and mission. When I first took to the podium, I felt an obligation to embody the spirit behind them, not just recite the words."
In his book, "Legacy Reloaded: A Nonviolent Awakening," Dr. Ferguson captures this same essence of commitment and passion. One particular quote from the book resonated deeply: "The burden of carrying the weight of others can be overwhelming and heavy. Now, envision a world where everyone takes up their rightful share of that load; collectively, we lighten the burden for all. In the strength of unity, we carry ourselves forward with purpose and resilience." I asked him to elaborate on this powerful statement.
"Unity is at the core of nonviolence," Dr. Ferguson explained. "Dr. King knew the only way to create lasting change was through collective effort. It's not enough for a few to bear the weight; everyone has to be involved and contribute."
The conversation then turned to some of the poignant moments he wrote about in "Legacy Reloaded." In Chapter 5, titled "Get Off My Shoulders," Dr. Ferguson recounts his visit to Jackson, Mississippi, where he had the honor of conversing with the late Myrlie Evers, widow of civil rights icon Medgar Evers. Another significant moment in his journey occurred inside the historic walls of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama—the site of a tragic bombing during the Civil Rights Movement.
"I remember standing in that church, feeling my soul swell with pain," Dr. Ferguson said, his voice growing softer. "I was amongst the descendants of the victims, and in that moment, I felt Dr. King's presence so strongly. I was channeling him, delivering the eulogy he once voiced within those hollow walls. The expression of those directly connected, who remembered, who felt the loss deeply, contrasted sharply with a broader society that often relegates this history to a single commemorative day, failing to grasp its prophetic relevance."
I could feel the weight of his words and the profound impact these experiences had on him. "How do you believe nonviolent strategies must evolve to address the complexities of modern-day conflicts and injustices?" I asked, curious about his views on the future of nonviolence in today's society.
"Nonviolence has to be adaptable," Dr. Ferguson replied without hesitation. "We're facing new challenges today, but the principles of nonviolence remain the same. It's about finding innovative ways to apply those principles—whether through social media, grassroots movements, or how we engage with policymakers. The goal is always to bring about positive change without resorting to violence."
As the interview drew to a close, I asked him one final question: "What do you hope readers will take away from Legacy Reloaded?"
Dr. Ferguson smiled, his eyes reflecting deep reflection. "I hope they understand the ongoing fight for justice and equality. Dr. King's legacy isn't something to be remembered only in history books; it's a living, breathing mission that we all have a part in continuing. I've done my job if "Legacy Reloaded" can inspire even one person to take up that mission."
As I left Panera Bread that evening, Dr. Ferguson's words lingered in my mind. The man who channels Dr. King's voice is more than just an extraordinary speaker; he is a torchbearer of a legacy that continues to light the way for future generations.
Ferguson is committed to a multifaceted mission that transcends mere written communication. As a distinguished speaker and coach, he has undergone training under the guidance of renowned figures such as Les Brown and John Maxwell. His areas of expertise encompass nonviolence, diversity, equity, inclusion, and personal development. Ferguson has become a highly sought-after presence at conferences, panels, and workshops by integrating a dynamic speaking style featuring live quotations from Dr. King, unexpected voices, and a touch of humor.
For individuals in search of both inspiration and pragmatic insights regarding how to contribute to the ongoing pursuit of a more just and equitable society, Ferguson's message is unmistakable: the enduring potency and relevance of the principles of nonviolence persist today as steadfastly as ever. Under the banner of 'Legacy Reloaded,' Ferguson endeavors to kindle inspiration and fortitude in his audience, perpetuating Dr. King's legacy by cultivating and galvanizing the forthcoming cadre of leaders.
For further details regarding “Legacy Reloaded: A Nonviolent Awakening” or to arrange an interview with Dr. Stephon Ferguson, visit http://thedreamlives.com/.
Dr. Ferguson’s “Legacy Reloaded: A Nonviolent Awakening” represents a literary work and a movement to foster a more peaceful and equitable global community. Engage in the discourse and become an integral part of this transformative initiative.
To learn more about Dr. Fergson, or to purchase his book, visit https://thedreamlives.com/stephonferguson/store
(Photo:Dr. Stephon Ferguson's book, Legacy Reloaded: A Nonviolent Awakening, takes a look at the principles of Martin Luther King Jr. Photo courtesy of Dr. Stephon Ferguson)
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Tuesday, 27 August 2024
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Written by Kathleen Ramsey
The girls of the Hope Mills 10U Softball All-Stars Angels were all too happy to talk about their sport and recent win at the Dixie Softball World Series tournament in Monroe, Louisiana.
“Wait, am I gonna be on ESPN?” One asked excitedly. Her mom giggled.
When the 12 girls were picked from their recreational teams and chosen to represent Hope Mills at the World Series in the 10U Angels division, the families individually made the 13-hour drive to Louisiana. Most of the players on the All-Stars team fall between the ages of nine and ten, with just a few having barely turned 11.
“These rec ball teams get formed every single year. There is a draft, and they pick the players that they want to represent the city,” said head coach Brad Gump. Gump is a coach on a volunteer basis.
The tournament was a double elimination tournament where the team ended up playing at least four games to eventually win the World Series. This was all after they won districts and then state before heading to the national tournament. The players felt their coach helped play a pivotal role in this success.
“He is a very positive and great coach,” said Nia Beaty. “He gave us inspirational words and gave us a confidence boost that helped us win that game.”
The All-Stars lost only one of the games they played through all of their tournaments. This was the hardest part for third-base player Brynann Bryant. When asked what the challenging part of being on the All-Stars team was, she just replied, “Coping with the one loss we had all season.”
Brynann said she and the others would ask themselves how they could have played better and try to keep spirits high even with a loss.
Other team members though, like first-base player Natalie Seals, said after seeing the draft of all the players for the All-Stars team, and the level of talent they all had, they felt they might have a good chance of winning the World Series. The loss of one game didn’t shake their confidence in future wins.
“It’s a little bit of pressure to pick the right kids but you get to watch them all year so you kind of have an idea,” Gump said of choosing his team. “You get two months to watch the girls play and practice.”
Most of the girls play both rec and travel ball for softball with a lot of them gushing about the passion they have for the sport. They play the sport year-round.
“I have been playing softball for two years and I have enjoyed every minute of it,” said second-base player Nia. “Softball is a major part of my life, and I probably will never stop playing that sport.”
Her sentiments are also echoed by many of the other players who find themselves hoping to turn their passion into a career one day, like Brynann, who says she wants to "for sure" be a professional softball player. Being picked for the All-Stars team and eventually going to travel to Louisiana only added to the level of excitement for the sport for most of them, Gump said.
“The girls were highly motivated the entire time. Every single game they showed up motivated. They scored 200 runs throughout the whole tournament. They only gave 2 runs against them,” Gump said.
Next year, Gump is moving to the 12U age group for softball and if he stays there, he may get a chance to coach many of the same girls again.
As for now, the girls and Gump will get to celebrate their win with a dinner with the Town of Hope Mills commissioners, a banner on the field at the Hope Mills recreational fields and they will all get to be in the Christmas Parade. One thing is for sure, they all plan to see each other in the future.
“Possibly in the big leagues,” said Nia.
(Photo: The Hope Mills 10U Softball All-Stars pose for a photo. The team won the Dixie Softball World Series in a dominant fashion, outscoring their opponents 200 runs to 2. Photo courtesy of the Hope Mills All-Stars)
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