She had everything stacked against her—poverty, abuse by multiple relatives, and a childhood filled with hardship. For many, this cycle of trauma continues, but not for her.
She had a vision of greatness. Despite her circumstances, she worked at a radio station and became the first in her family to graduate high school—an achievement in itself. But she didn’t stop there. Her academic excellence earned her a college scholarship, opening doors that once seemed impossible.
In 1984, she was hired to host a low-rated talk show. Under her leadership, the show became a massive success. By 1986, it was renamed The Oprah Winfrey Show, and she openly shared her struggles in front of the camera. Her honesty built trust with her audience as she tackled a wide range of topics, including mental health, spirituality, and self-improvement.
Unstoppable Woman
Her vision didn’t stop at hosting a talk show. Oprah’s book club promoted literacy and revived the publishing industry. She established a leadership academy for girls in South Africa and donated millions to causes supporting abuse survivors and education. She even launched her own cable network. Today, her net worth is in the billions.
Her relentless dedication, talent, and generosity prove that a woman with a dream and determination can accomplish almost anything.
She could have let her traumatic past hold her back. She could have settled for a series of dead-end jobs. But she didn’t. Despite everything, she excelled academically, secured a scholarship, and pursued her dreams. Each time she reached a goal, she set an even bigger one. That’s how she became a global icon.
Her story embodies Proverbs 20:13:
“Do not love sleep or you’ll become poor; keep your eyes open and you’ll have plenty of food.”
Napping Lazily
Now, let’s talk about the opposite of diligence—laziness.
GotQuestions.org explains:
“In wisdom literature, loving sleep is a metaphor for laziness, carelessness, or inactivity, while staying awake represents hard work and diligence.”
I love sleep. I admit to sleeping in on weekends, and when I don’t get enough rest, I get headaches. But this verse isn’t literally about sleep—it’s about avoiding complacency. While rest is important, we can’t let inactivity keep us from moving forward.
What Motivates Me
I work hard, but it hasn’t led to financial wealth. However, if I put things into perspective, I live in America, where even a low-income salary is considered wealth in many parts of the world.
When it comes to creativity, I’m extremely disciplined. I study other artists by replicating their techniques, experimenting with my own style, watching YouTube tutorials, and reading books to improve my craft.
I love writing picture books and journaling prompts. I enjoy the editing process—revising, refining, and making my work good enough to share with the world.
What motivates you?
Educational Careers vs. Hobbies
I’ve worked entry-level jobs my entire career. Right now, I’m a teacher’s aide, and I enjoy making an impact on students. Sometimes, their words and actions make me laugh.
I’ve explored other careers in education, but none feel like the right fit. Teachers have an overwhelming workload. Guidance counselors help students through daily struggles but rarely get breaks. The child study team works mostly with paperwork rather than directly with students.
I’ve realized that for now, being a teacher’s aide is where I belong.
Is there an area in your life where you feel stuck? If you want to move forward, what small steps can you take?
Setting Goals
While I’m content in some areas of my life, I refuse to remain stagnant in others. Growth requires setting goals and taking small, daily steps to achieve them. Each step pushes me out of my comfort zone—just a little—until I reach a new level of confidence and ability.
When you’ve met your goals, how do you feel?
If I reflect on my life, I realize God has already provided what I need. I work part-time, which allows me time to pursue my creative passions.
Lord,
Show me where I’ve been lazy. Reveal where I need to set goals—not by my own strength, but by Yours. Help me commit to the plans You have for me and take action. Nothing is impossible with You.
For how one man stayed Loyal To the Vision click here or how my greatest could be tied to what God wants me to do for others check out The Secret to Fulfilling My Deepest Desires click here.
Sources and References:
Biography.com Editors. “Oprah Winfrey.” Biography, A&E Networks, https://www.biography.com/movies-tv/oprah-winfrey. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.
“Oprah Winfrey.” Encyclopedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Oprah-Winfrey. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.
“Oprah Winfrey.” National Women’s Hall of Fame, https://www.womenofthehall.org/inductee/oprah-winfrey. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.
“Oprah Winfrey.” The Kennedy Center, https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/w/wa-wn/oprah-winfrey. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.
“Oprah Winfrey.” Academy of Achievement, https://achievement.org/achiever/oprah-winfrey. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.
The Holy Bible, International Standard Version. “Proverbs 20:13.” Bible Gateway, https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2020%3A13&version=ISV. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.
“What Does It Mean That We Should Not Love Sleep (Proverbs 20:13)?” GotQuestions.org, https://www.gotquestions.org/do-not-love-sleep.html. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.