Tag: Keep Going

Posted in Keep Climbing

You can work your way to the top

Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

Do you remember my two friends Barbara and Jane from my previous post, “Broken ladders”? If not, go read it asap! I’d like to give you an update and stress the importance of working your way up, as opposed to expecting someone to put you there. For those of you who need a reminder, Barbara and Jane were good friends who started at the bottom of the totem pole together. They made a pact that whoever was the first to “make it”, would help the other, but sadly, Barbara didn’t hold up her end of the bargain.

Left with no other choice but to do it on her own, Jane found success, but it was only because she “worked her way to the top”! Sure, it would’ve been easier and quicker for Barbara to put her there, especially considering the fact that she has so much power. However, because Jane knows the importance of working to get what you want instead of someone giving it to you, she appreciates the success more, because it was all her own doing.

A lot of people need to come to the realization, that they don’t always need someone for everything, let alone to do anything for them. I guess one of the largest reasons why people have shied away from this way of thinking, is because they are so used to being leeches, coat-riders, and recipients of handouts. Besides, nobody wants to work for anything anymore, because society has somehow led us to believe, “It’s not what you know, but who you know”. You see, the “benefit of being” (friends, partners, etc.) gets us jobs, advances and careers, not our hard work.

Make no mistake about it, regardless of how you get to the position you’re at or desire to be, it’s always going to boil down to hard work and how bad do you want it. Barbara could’ve placed me in a position of “winning”, but once I got there, I still would’ve had to put in hard work to stay there!

Until next time my NOTE takers!

Writefully yours,

Deetra La’Rue

Posted in Ready, set, GO!

Running without hindrance

Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

I’ve never been a fan of track and field, largely in part, because it required me to run. While I appreciate physical activity, walking is much more my “speed”. Besides, running requires a lot of stamina and endurance, and often times, I have very little of the two. However, what I do know I have, is the ability to run without hindrance.

A month ago, I logged online and came across the story of a track star, who was running in a competitive race. About mid-way through the race, he hurt his ankle, and it seemed as though he was headed for trouble, and not the finish line. Clearly, his faced showed he was in excruciating pain, but one thing he never did, was stop running.

Although the injury slowed him down, it didn’t hinder him from completing the race. Granted, he didn’t win the competition, but he won over the hearts of millions, because he kept going, despite his pain. Honestly, how many of us can say we’d have done the same? What’s even more admirable, is that he continued to push himself, because he wanted the victory, more than he did the defeat.

Admittedly, I have been in a many of races, and there were countless of things that tried to obstruct me from finishing. However, I thought with a winners mindset, and kept my eye on the prize, even though something(s) got in the way of my view. Nonetheless, I was persistent and continued to run! I’m pretty sure you’ve encountered a few impediments or two, but like me, I hope you continued to run, even with things got in the way.

We all will encounter roadblocks, and when you do, “go around them”. You’re going to find some closed doors, but there comes a point in your life where you have to “turn the knob and just walk through”. I’m sure you’ve been met with a brick wall a time or two, but hopefully, you did as me and “climbed over”. No one is exempt from obstacles, and when affronted by them, whatever you do, DON’T stop running!

Until next time my NOTE takers!

Writefully yours,

Deetra La’Rue

Posted in The next best thing

The Layover

Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

I’m stuck, and I have been for quite some time now

As each day passes, I can’t help but wonder if I’ll ever board

Or will I continue to experience yet another delay?

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind waiting, because I’m for certain it’s for a very good reason

It has to be, after all, I’ve been waiting on it for years

However, I’d like to know what’s so “special” that it’s taking me years to get

I’m exhausted, and at this point, I’m tired of sitting still

I’m ready to fly, no better yet, soar…..

But I can’t, because for some reason God is keeping me grounded

Who knows, maybe He’s protecting me from casualty, but it’s not like I haven’t flown before

So I don’t understand what the big deal is……or maybe I am the big deal

Because of my fragileness, He knows I’ve got to be handled with extreme care

Therefore, He won’t just trust anything to carry His most precious cargo

But, that still doesn’t change the fact that I’m stuck!

What’s crazy is that, no matter how hard I’ve tried to take flight

My plans somehow manage to get derailed and I’m left wondering what I did wrong

Because in my eyes, I did all that I knew how right

Truth be told, I’m over this sh…….and, I AM READY TO GO!

Hello Pilot (God)? Are you there? What’s the hold up?

You’ve had more than enough time to get this thing going, so why am I still here?

What is it? You don’t trust me? Are you afraid that I’ll try to takeover

Just as I’ve done all the other times and crash and burn?

So, rather than keep me from calling for an unnecessary SOS

You jump right in and save me

In fact, You’ve always saved me……especially from what I thought was best for me

I’m so glad You thought more for me, than I did myself, and had I done things my way

I would’ve never witnessed this journey, let alone enjoyed it

As I reflect and look at things from Your perspective, I’m exactly where You want me to be

You’ve placed me in a position of preparation, making sure that everything is just right

And from the looks of it, my wait won’t be much longer

I’ll be connecting soon, and until then, I’m going to sit still, be patient and enjoy the layover

For almost twelve years, I’ve been working for the same company. Although it has its ups and downs, I enjoy what I do and being of service to others. Within the past year and a half, I’ve realized the position I’m in is no longer one I wish to hold. I’ve tried relentlessly to “take flight”, but for reasons unknown, I’m still there. There’s an immense feeling of suffocation, fright and frantic thoughts of being “stuck”. I don’t know why I can’t move, but I do know who I’m there for and what I’m there for.

Although I’d like to be flying to my next destination, God is simply saying, “Not yet”. I’ve realized I’m in a period of layover, and no matter what I do, I’m never going to move, until He says so. You may be in a similar position and are overwhelmed with feelings of being stuck, but I can assure you, you aren’t. Be patient, and understand that like me, God is preparing you for the flight you’ve always dreamed of!

Until next time my NOTE takers!

Writefully yours,

Deetra La’Rue

Posted in Keep Going

On the run

Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

Hey you…..yes, YOU! Why are you running? More importantly, what are you afraid of? Are you scared of your dreams? Or, are you more afraid that all the hard work you put into pursuing your goals are about to pay off? Have a seat…I’ve been waiting on you! In fact, I’m running too, but I got tired a ways back, so I decided to take a break…but only for a little while.

So, tell me…..What are you running from? I know what I am momentarily trying to escape, but I want to hear from you. It’s not success is it, because if I’m not mistaken, that’s all you ever seem to talk about. No wait, maybe things haven’t quite turned out the way you hoped, or you didn’t expect to “crawl before you walked”, so you’re having a hard time trying to stand.

Let me guess….The loads of cash you thought to appear instantaneously, is more like non-existent? Yea, I figured as much! It’s okay though, you got a little ahead of yourself and like me, was a little too ambitious, but that’s no reason to run, let alone quit. Don’t be ashamed that the very thing you’ve always dreamed of, is taking its time becoming a reality.

Just a bit of advice, you’re not on anyone’s time line, but your own! The “expectations” are there, but you are in no way obligated to meet them. Who cares if someone feels as though you should be further along than where you are. The important thing is this, you…still….haven’t….given…up! Besides, introduce me to someone who has experienced overnight success. #I’llwait

Speaking of waiting, we’ve waited long enough, so get up, because we’ve got to get going again! #breaksover

Until next time my NOTE takers!

Writefully yours,

Deetra La’Rue

Posted in don't stop

Don’t Stop!

Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

    I am beyond blessed, to have had the privilege to speak with low-income, first generation high school students, at a high school located in Alabama! As a Motivational Speaker, one of the things I pride myself on, is being authentic and most important, transparent with my audience. As I made the 3.5hr drive to speak with these students, I immediately realized where I was going….back into time!

    I was taking a trip down (an unforgettable) memory lane, and let’s just say, although I have survived my past experiences, they sometimes still bother me. As I walked into the school doors, I was immediately met with students who looked just like me, when I was a teenager. They didn’t have the best of clothes, they looked worn, and most noticeable, they were poor….not just in terms of finances, but attitude, spirit and self-esteem.

    When I saw them, they’re eyes screamed, “Help” and “Save me”, but the only thing I could offer, were words of wisdom and something they definitely needed, HOPE! As I spoke, I surveyed the audience, and often found myself staring at “me”. I felt bad for them, and there was nothing more I wanted for them, but for them to get out of their situation (whatever it was). Financially, I desperately wanted to help, but that would only solve a small portion of their problems.

    Physically, emotionally and mentally, these young Kings and Queens were drained and beat down. They had little support, if any at all, and they needed to be saved. I felt so helpless, because essentially, there was nothing I could do, but offer them something I wish I had when I was in their situation….HOPE and example to live by! After speaking with them, they treated me to lunch and a book signing. Although it was a paid speaking engagement, the positive comments I received from the students was “worth more” than the money I received!

    I’m so grateful to be a servant, but most importantly, in a position of power and influence! I am purposed to live the life God has set out for me, and I am so happy to be able to bless others! I am living out my dreams, while having the position of my dreams! I couldn’t ask for a better life, and so thankful that I am enjoying mine! Whatever it is you aspire to be or do, DON’T STOP, until you’ve reached your destiny!

    Until next time my NOTE takers!

    Writefully yours!

    Deetra La’Rue

    Posted in Keep Going

    Miles Away

    Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

    You want it…..you can smell….you can even taste it, yet it’s so far away. Success requires hard work, yet some people don’t want to do what it takes to get it, because the distance is a little farther than they’d like to go. You see, some people just aren’t willing to go the extra mile, because they’re complacent where they are.

    Don’t be one of those people! If success is what you’re after, it doesn’t matter how long it’ll take you to get there, because no distance is too large or great to stop you from achieving your goals and dreams. That’s the difference between “those who want it” and “those you just want to talk about it”!

    All my life, I’ve envisioned being my own boss and having a successful writing career and bookstore. I’ve talked about it for years, and five months ago, I finally started my writing company, CH1. Although I didn’t generate thousands of dollars in revenue within the first month or few, my business has started to pick up and take off.

    I’m already successful, but I know the monetary success that I aspire to have, is going to take me some to attain. However, rather than being one of those who just want to talk about the things I want to have/achieve, I decided I “wanted it”, and put in the work to get it. I’m fully aware that success doesn’t happen over night, and I’m realistic when it comes to my goals, so I refuse to settle for complacency, all because I’m miles away from my goals.

    Whether it be 5, 10, 20 or 100 miles between me and my success, I’m going to continue trekking, because every step I take, is only making me that much closer to my goals!

    Keep going NOTE takers!

    Until next time!

    Writefully yours,

    Deetra La’Rue

    Posted in Keep Climbing

    Broken Ladders

    Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

    Barbara and Jane have been friends for years, and no matter how many arguments or disagreements they’ve had, they refused to let anything come between them….well, anything but success. You see, Barbara is more successful than Jane. Let’s pretend for a moment, that money equates to success (in some people’s eyes, this is true). Barbara is now higher up in the company, although they both started out at the bottom of the totem pole.

    Prior to the promotion, both ladies struggled to make ends meet and worked tirelessly to climb their way up. Application after application, they applied and were denied! They always stated that if one was to come up before the other, they’d extend the hand to pull the other up. One day, God blessed Barbara with the opportunity of a lifetime, Chief Executive Officer. What a come up, but I don’t think anyone was more happy for Barbara, than her good friend Jane.

    Regardless of the power shift, they both remained good friends and continued to work well together. One day, Jane decided to pursue her dreams of becoming her own boss, and opened her writing business. Barbara told Jane that she’d do whatever she can to help her advance, because she wanted to see her succeed. At first business was slow and although she wanted to give up, Jane continued to push through, because she knew that “There were NO shortcuts to success”!

    Jane asked Barbara to allow her to do a presentation to the company, but it would be a separate charge, and not considered a part of her salary. Barbara obliged and was “thrilled” to do whatever she could to help. Days, weeks and months went by, and Barbara didn’t make good on her word. Unbeknownst to Jane, she’d get her opportunity of a lifetime, her very first PAID speaking engagement (plus two others lined up)…..that included a book signing. She was so thrilled, because her business was taking off, which meant more money for her.

    Needless to say, not everyone was happy, especially Barbara. You see, she knew of Jane’s gifts and there wasn’t a doubt in her mind that she would do well and be successful, just as long as she wasn’t more successful than her. Barbara didn’t forget to ask the company to allow Jane to do a presentation, in fact, she deliberately didn’t ask, because she knew it would open up doors for Jane. However, what she failed to realize is, she couldn’t hold Jane back, because God was pushing her FORWARD!

    In case you haven’t realized by now, I’m Jane, and at some point, you probably were too! A lot of people claim to be your friend or rally in your corner, but secretly, they want you to remain on their level or lower. They’re envious and openly express their disgust of you climbing higher up the ladder of success, over them. They’ll pull, tug and grab on you in an attempts to bring you down, so you’re unable to climb any higher than them.

    However, what they fail to realize is, God is the LADDER and there’s NOTHING they can do to stop Him from catapulting you higher! I’ll never understand why someone would want to hinder my success or cause me to become stagnant, because they are fearful of me being “better” than them. I will never forget Barbara’s ulterior motives, or what she potentially thought she could gain by not helping me, but no matter what, I’m going to keep climbing! One day, I’ll “look down” at her, and say, “It’s been awhile. You should ‘come up’ and visit”!

    Until next time my NOTE takers!

    Writefully yours,

    Deetra La’Rue

    Posted in Doing the right thing

    It’s not about you

    Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

    A goal of mine when I started this forum, was to post every…..single….day! Needless to say, I haven’t necessarily been on my “P’s and Q’s”. Before I post, I ALWAYS ask God, “What do you want me to tell these people”? After sitting in deep thought for some minutes or two, I end up saying something, although that “something” may not be what I want to share. However, it ends up being something that we feel the readers need.

    I’ve never been fond of the way I was raised or the life experiences I went through, and I sure as heck didn’t want to make others aware. Although I couldn’t understand why I was being tortured (so, I thought), I just knew I had to be going through what I did for a reason. My reason used to be as punishment for something I’d done in my life, but He forgives all, so that was no longer an option.

    As crazy as this may sound, I learned that my misfortunes needed to happen. (1): It was all apart of God’s plans (2): There was a lesson in it for me and (3): There was a blessing in it for someone else. Part of the things I went through (I feel), was to be able to help others who were about to make their way through where I had been, or who were trying to find a way out. As much as I questioned and asked “Why me”, in all honesty, it wasn’t even about me.

    It was about “her”, “him”, “they” and “them” all along….it was never about Deetra! I selfishly choose to put the attention back on me! When I took me out of it, and realized God was using me to help them, the struggles, heartache and pain, all made sense. I can’t begin to tell you the lives I’ve impacted, transformed or made a difference in, because I used my pain to help them get through theirs.

    Because I was able to identify with them, I could help! Because I had been through the trenches and they the terrains, I could help! Because I had been through the fiery furnace and they the pits of hell, I could help! Because I said, “Yes Lord, Your will and not mine”, I could help! You never know what your situation may do to help others, but you can’t see it, because you’re too busy trying to get the hell out!

    I’m not asking or recommending anyone to stay in a detrimental situation, to obtain experience to pass on to the next person. What I am saying is, sometimes it’s not about you, but them….and the only way you can help them, is if you’ve gone through it yourself! I’ve fallen on many of occasions, and the only way I was able to get back up, was on the strength of someone else’s story. Keep shining! You’re someone’s light in their darkness.

    Until next time my Note takers!

    Writefully yours,

    Deetra La’Rue

    Posted in Still here

    Still here

    Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

    Anybody that knows me, knows that I am notoriously private (well, I try to be). Sometimes, I’m pretty easy to talk to and other times I’m not (at least that’s what I’ve been told). As I’ve gotten older and wiser, I’ve let my guard down (just a little) and try to be transparent, because I never know who I may help along the way.

    It’s no secret that I share a lot of my personal hardships and life experiences on this forum. What’s simply a “post” to you, is more than words; it’s my life! As discreet as I try to be, it’s no secret my battle with depression and anxiety, amongst other things. However, one of the biggest things I’ve struggled with, is whether or not I deserved to “still be here”.

    Last year, one of the biggest and bravest things I decided to do, was want more for myself. I decided that I was no longer going to be held captive to my past, my mistakes and most important, the negative thoughts I had of myself. Besides, I couldn’t fault people for not feeling or thinking positive of me, when I didn’t require it from myself.

    NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is one of many organizations that I support (for “obvious” reasons). During one of my many days of online shopping (lol), I came across this jewelry maker on Etsy, and one of the most popular items she sold, was “still here” necklaces, that were followed by the semi-colon sign.

    Well, if you are a stranger to the MI (Mental Illness) world, the semi-colon represents a “pause in one’s story, but not the end”. Depression and anxiety was not the end of me (although it tried to destroy me), so I was eager to purchase a necklace, support the cause and allow others to see how brave I was.

    My bravery and transparency has allowed others to come forth and share their story. One of my students came to me yesterday, after months of being absent, stating to me why she hadn’t been as active as she needs to be. She shared with me that she is struggling very bad with depression and anxiety, so much, that she literally had to force herself out of bed, and even she doesn’t know how she was able to do it.

    Immediately, I felt her anguish, pain and most of all, I felt for her, because not too long ago, I was “trying to get up out of that bed”. I knew then, why I was “still here”….

    I don’t care what you are going through or have been through. Never question why you are “still here”…just be thankful that you are!

    Until next time my Note takers!

    Writefully yours,

    Deetra La’Rue

    Posted in Keep Going

    Best player, but never picked

    Posted on by Deetra La'Rue

    Recess during my elementary days were pretty rough! Every time it came time to play dodgeball, I cringed, because I knew one of two things were bound to happen: either I would be picked last or not at all! Both were a hard pill to swallow, because I couldn’t figure out for the life of me, why I was the best player, but never picked?

    A little over a month ago, I submitted my book to Books-A-Million, to have it distributed and carried world-wide in their stores. I was so excited as I submitted my pitch (letter) and gave them what I thought to be the best reasons as to why they should “pick me”. With my book enclosed, I sealed up my letter, mailed them off, and anxiously waited (and prayed) to hear a favorable response.

    Weeks had passed, and still no response, but I kept saying to myself, “Any day now, you are going to have your books sold in Books-A-Million”. That not only kept the suspense going, but it made me feel good about the wait. Besides, “good things come to those who wait”. Although I have “patience” issues, I still held out, because I just knew I was about to scratch a goal off of my goals list.

    However, the only thing I ended up scratching off, was BAM as a distributor of my book. Sad to say, they sent me an email composed in what seemed to be a 200 font (I guess to make sure I read it), indicating they had decided not to accept my book. As the blood left my face, I said to myself, “What? Do you not know who I am? Do you know you have decided not to ‘pick the best player’ on the team”?

    For the first couple of hours, I sat in disbelief, had a conversation with God, and then placed the rejection email in my “Their Loss” folder. Although I wanted to, I couldn’t get upset at them for passing on the opportunity of a lifetime. It was their decision to make and obviously they went with what they thought was best. Needless to say, I know God has my best interest at heart, and I’m confident BAM was not the “best” thing He has for me!

    There are going to be times you are the best player on the team, and no matter how bad you want to play, you just aren’t going to get picked. However, you have to know that you are worthy of the starting position, and although one team might bench you, there’s going to be another one that puts you in their starting lineup! Whatever you do, keep playing…..one day you’re going to get picked!

    Until next time my note takers!

    Writefully yours,

    Deetra La’Rue