Harriet Tubman : Lessons from her life

Harriet is an upcoming American bio pic film directed by Kasi Lemmons. Kasi wrote the screenplay with Gregory Allen Howard and it is based on the life of abolitionist Harriet Tubman. This movie stars British- Nigerian actress Cynthia Erivo as Tubman,  Leslie Odom Jr., Joe Alwyn, Jennifer Nettles and Janelle Monáe .

Harriet Tubman is one name that no one familiar with the African American history can ignore. She was born in 1820 escaped to freedom in 1849 to become the most famous “conductor” on what was called the Underground Railroad. the Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses established in the United States during the early to mid-19th century, and used by African-American slaves to escape into free states in the US as well, Canada and Nova Scotia. They often had the help of abolitionists and other allies .

Harriet was referred to as the Moses of her time and put her own life and freedom in jeopardy in order to rescue hundreds of slaves. She knew how to keep going in the midst of the storm and her faith in God guided her. She knew that no matter how comfortable a slave was that nothing compared to sweet freedom! While we await the movie here are a few lessons from her life.

Be Led: Harriet had a relationship with God and this helped guide her while negotiating the fields and leading people. Many times we are so preoccupied with life that we forgot to depend on that still small voice to see us through.

Pay attention to your dreams: Harriet received many directions from God through her dreams and that helped her. Keep a journal and write down any dreams you have as they may be messages from the Lord.

Be brave: Harriet was very brave she was engaged in a very dangerous vocation but she kept at it and even when discouraged she kept on. Many times what we are doing may not be easy but once you are convinced you need to do it then keep at it and God will make a way.

Be Passionate: Harriet had passion, she was never a rich woman and spent most of what she got helping people to freedom but her passion sustained her. Being passionate about whatever you do will set you apart and give you strength to keep on even when you begin to get weary.

Help others: Harriet was not selfish, after she got free she could have just sat still and enjoyed her freedom but instead she kept going back to help others. She was a true helper and knew that she was not truly free as long as her brothers were still in chains.

Free yourself: Matthew 7 verse 5 puts is succinctly. In other words you cannot help others when you are in the same predicament. Harriet needed to be free in order to help others achieve freedom. Sometimes we are so eager to help others without realizing we too are in the same boat and need to help ourselves first in order to be a true help.

Harriet Tubman was one amazing woman and her usually bravery even in the midst of pain (she suffered from extreme migraines) makes her one woman worthy of celebration. Little wonder that today she graces the $20 bill. Celebrate and learn from this female “Moses” who truly helped hundred if not thousands reach the Promised Land to freedom!

One thought on “Harriet Tubman : Lessons from her life

  1. Great post! I love all the practical advice. Journaling is so important so that we don’t miss vital messages that we receive both in our dreams and throughout the day. The 3G Journal is key! Thanks Chioma

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