“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession” 

1 Peter 2:9

Black pioneering actress and civil rights activist, Cicely Tyson, recently passed away on January 28, 2021. She was 96 years old and had a long acting career. “In a career spanning more than seven decades, she became known for her portrayal of strong African-American women. Tyson was the recipient of three Primetime Emmy Awards, four Black Reel Awards, one Screen Actors Guild Award, one Tony Award, an honorary Academy Award, and a Peabody Award.” (Wikipedia) She was in highly acclaimed movies like “The Help” and she played a prominent character in the 1977 television series “Roots” to name a couple. I distinctly remember her work in Roots when she played the role of Binta. She was so powerful that the memory of her is still sealed in my memory all these years later. I remember one episode when Binta got her power back after being abused for so many years and I cheered for her when she did.

Tyson was born in East Harlem on December 19, 1924. Her father was a carpenter and painter and her mother was a domestic worker. Her parents were immigrants from the West Indies and she was one of three children. She did not have a spectacular background or much privilege, yet just like cream…she rose to the top. She rose to the top because she believed in herself. She came from a religious background and her mother did not speak to her for some time because she did not approve of her being an actress. However, all of that changed once she saw her daughter on the stage for the first time.

Through it all, Tyson remained true to herself and remained true to her calling to be an actress and kept her eye on the prize. This is how she wanted to be remembered. She said, “Being true to yourself is the key. Knowing your roots and where you come from – keep that with you always. Keep your chin up high and your standards high and remember…you are a Queen.”

My dear friends of Parkview. Remember who you are. Remember that you are royalty. Remember that you are a Queen/King and that you come from a royal priesthood of believers. Stay true to who you are.