by Craig Thompson
"Each Generation must, out of relative obscurity,
discover its mission, fulfill it or betray it"
Frantz Fanon, author of the critically acclaimed book "The Wretched of the Earth," wrote these words over forty years ago. As we reflect on the recent events which have shocked the nation, it is apparent that those important words still ring true. As I write this piece, I am reminded of a lecture I attended in college. The speaker, the late Kwame Ture (formerly known as Stokely Carmichael) provided the youthful audience with serious food for thought regarding leadership, courage and commitment to an ideal.
After his presentation, I approached him to shake his hand and thank him for his words. I informed him that I had seen him in numerous documentaries, read about his work in several books and publications, and truly appreciated his efforts on behalf of oppressed people around the world. After graciously accepting my compliments, he looked at me and said: "if you really want to thank me, continue my work - because I'm getting old."
For years, the generation known as "Generation X," we in our late 20's and early 30's, has been accused of being lazy, self-centered, unfocused and unprepared. Although the argument can be made that this group lacks the macro-activist spirit of past generations, it cannot be accepted that the desire or focus to improve is deficient. The events of September 11 have produced a clear picture of what is needed in our communities: focused, strong and committed individuals with the energy and patience to endure the struggle ahead. To paraphrase Fanon, we have received our mission, now we must fulfill it!
There are numerous examples of younger individuals around the country who are daring to make a difference while using their talents in constructive ways: Councilman Corey Booker in New Jersey has taken his grass-roots style of politics to the streets; Pamela Thomas-Graham, at 38, has taken over as CEO of cable news giant CNBC, and understands the power and reach of the media; Karl Kani has maintained his strong presence in the business and fashion world, and continues to create his popular line of clothing. What makes these men and women, and others like them, reach for greatness? The answer lies in discovering, understanding, accepting and fulfilling their mission! They have four common traits, which we should incorporate into our lives:
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A PASSION FOR WHAT THEY DO
Those with a commitment to greatness have a strong and unwavering passion for their work. It is insufficient to do an important job with less than everything that you can give.
- A PLAN
"If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." It is critical that we each seek to discover, understand and accept our talents, and work on a plan to maximize our opportunities to utilize them. If the opportunities do not present themselves, we should create our own.
- A COMMITMENT TO LEAVING A LEGACY
Those who understand their mission know that it must last beyond their physical existence. We should strive to ensure that our work will touch both our generation and generations to come.
- A RESPECT FOR THE UNIVERSAL SPIRIT
Individuals who achieve much, understand from whence their true power comes. A respect and appreciation for the Divine Force that allows us to fulfill our mission is imperative if we are to realize our true potential.
Our collective mission is not only to rise to a CEO level or run for political office, but to tap into what makes each of us great, and use that greatness to benefit our homes, neighborhoods, communities and selves. As we move forward into this post-tragedy period, our future depends on those of us who are prepared to do the work necessary to guarantee our survival.
Craig Thompson is an attorney, lecturer, writer and host of weekly radio and television shows. At age 32, Craig is a highly sought after public speaker, addressing topics such as leadership, goal setting and self-esteem. He has spoken across the country at churches, schools, colleges and to civic organizations. He can be reached at cathompson42001@yahoo.com
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