Issue link: http://lawtonfirst.uberflip.com/i/1263026
7 spring/summer 2020 I don't belong here? en one day, one of my favorite film directors, Tyler Perry, flashed on my TV screen. He was sharing his personal story of success and challenges working in Hollywood. From growing up in an abusive home to spending the majority of his 20s as homeless, Perry struggled to achieve his dream of working in Hollywood. rough years of failures, rejection and disappointment, he consistently noted his faithfulness in God's plan for him was the hope which kept him going and contributed to his successful career. In a speech earlier this year, he announced the unveiling of his very own film studio— a first in history as an African American and built on this land with previous ties to slavery. He shared that by creating his own studio, it enabled him to fulfill his dreams rather than fighting for acceptance in an industry that continuously rejected him. Am I good enough? Am I worthy enough? Do I belong here? I serve a God who says that I am not only more than enough, I am incredibly worthy and I absolutely belong in any place within His plan for me. is message is not unique to me; God shares this same message with each of us. In fact, if you didn't belong in a place, it's because He has already prepared a bigger and better place for you. Tyler Perry said, "What I know for sure is that if I could just build this table, God will prepare it for me in the presence of my enemies." Like Tyler Perry's story, I believe my God has the power to make the impossible possible and turn a dream into reality, all it takes is the faith of a mustard seed and the will to persevere. Rather than fighting for the acceptance of others and relying on them to determine when or how you can be successful, place your faith in God to guide your path. Live your sweet life. Navigate the pits and keep moving forward. I remind myself and encourage you to do the same each day, especially when you are faced with adversity, rejection or dismissiveness. You are called to a higher purpose by a loving Father who will always have a seat for you at His table. Your life is a gift. Your attitude is a choice. Embrace the sweet life God has given you. ■ Brandi M. Sims, MBA, works as the Vice President of Communications and Membership for the Lawton Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce. Sims was formerly a Senior Publicist for a Virginia-based public relations agency specializing in professional athletes, celebrity entertainment, government agencies and small to midsize businesses before being appointed as the Communications Manager for the Chamber in 2018. Sims was recently promoted to her current position and leads the strategic direction for Chamber communications and membership outreach services. Sims is married to retired Navy GM2 Expeditionary Warfare Specialist and Licensed Practical Nurse, Oscar Sims, III. They, along with their two children, stay busy entertaining their German Shepard, Thor. They are all active members of LFA. Bio photo courtesy of Shereyl Grubbs. 7 spring/summer 2020