Notes by La'Rue

My name is Deetra La’Rue and I am a HUGE pie lover! Two of the best pies I love to eat, are sweet potato pie and key lime pie. Although they are both delicious, neither can compare to my absolute favorite, “humble pie”. I used to fight my past and tried every way possible to keep others from knowing what really happened to me. I was embarrassed about my upbringing and fearful of how others would perceive me, let alone act towards me.  As I grew older, I no longer wrestled with the idea of what people thought of me, but more so what I thought of myself. I knew I wasn’t the first to encounter adversity and challenges, so suddenly, I didn’t feel the need to be ashamed.

I knew God was using my situation to benefit others, as opposed to bringing me out of mine. No matter how much I fantasized or dreamt of finally “making it”, one thing I’ve always remembered, is to remain humble.   I’ve read many rags to riches stories and was disgusted at the fact that many people quickly forgot where they came from, no sooner than God blessed them with what they have.  The rich persona they portray to others was an attempt to downplay the poor person they used to be, while leading people to believe they were always “about that life”. That ******* irritated me!   I’ve never been too keen on the idea of people placing themselves above others or at the top of the hierarchy to increase their self-esteem and appear impressive,to say the least.

“***** BE HUMBLE”

No matter how successful I become, I’ll always remember where I come from and what I come from. Although my past is in my rear view mirror, it reminds me that “objects in mirror are closer than they appear”. Those objects alone humble me, and can resurface at any moment in time, if we’re not careful of how we treat others and good stewards over what God has given us. I used to have aspirations of being this rich, superstar, but I never subscribed to the idea of being too big that others couldn’t touch me.  

Honestly, my true identity would battle the facade, and not allow me to become so full of myself. I’ve had many people try to place me atop a pedestal, but I quickly asked to be taken down.  I had to let them know, I’m not above anyone, and besides, I am terrified of heights! I wish more people were cognizant of their past, so they can better handle their future. It’s not to say they should be held hostage to it, but it would at least give them a sensitive heart and feelings on how to deal with people, who share the same background as them.  I understand that no one wants to be reminded of where they come from, but sometimes we need it to help remind us of who not to become.

I get it! Palatial pads are nice to come home to, luxurious cars are great to drive and designer handbags and accessories are cute to own, but none of it is more valuable than your ability to remain true to who you are, and not the person you want others to believe you to be.  My integrity, values and staying real (regardless of how ugly my past situation was), makes me richer than 14kt gold!

Because of God, I consider myself to be pretty successful. However, if I ever had the gall to feel or act as if I’m more or better than others, I’ll take a quick look in my rear-view mirror, smile and remember, “Objects in mirror are closer than they appear”!

Writefully yours, 

Deetra La’Rue