Do You Know Me? I’m Your History 2-21-26

Remembering someone the Lord used as a "Stepping Stone" in my life.

I could not let this Month (African American History) pass by without writing about someone who assisted me at one of the saddest times of my life. This was the second time the narrative was presented about our locals in the Guilford County area who made national and local history. Members from our church portrayed the real characters and many of the characters or their family was there to see themselves being acted out.

The Narrative was scheduled to be presented around the third week in February.

I asked Brother Hodgist Stephens if he would assist in directing the narrative and he agreed. This was definitely from the Spirit of God. My sister and I were scheduled to be in Bucks County, Pennsylvania on February 28_, 2009. That month was a tight schedule for me.

On Saturday February 7, 2009, I received a call from my sister Nancy telling me she was in the hospital. Nancy told me not to come; she would let me know when if it was necessary. At 3:33 am the next morning (Sunday), I received a call from my niece telling me Nancy’s conditioned had worsened (it was critical). I called Amtrak and the lines were down; kept trying and about an hour later reservations were made to get on the next train to Philadelphia.

While waiting at the train station, my nephew kept me updated; on that last call he said “She’s gone” I lost it, my only biological sister was gone! It was almost unimaginable how high my emotions were and how horrible it was to ride on the train for ten hours. It was absolutely horrible! Nancy’s service was Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2009. And back in Greensboro to finish what was started with Hodgist having professionally done his part.

Now to Brother Hodgist Stephens

I don’t know if it ever was expressed how much I appreciated your expertise in directing in my stead. The Spirit knew exactly who to use to make the event a great success.

These words are to publicly acknowledge how grateful I was then and every time it comes into my mind, what you did brings me joy. Your willingness to step in at such a crucial time will never be forgotten. The Lord also used you to help others to remember our history.

I don’t how you developed your commanding skills; whether through the military or they were God given, you knew how to take charge. Whatever the case I was impressed by your seriousness and you wanted things done right; that is professionalism.

You and your wife (Patricia) also portrayed Biblical characters in our church Sunday school skit “The Passover” and both of you portrayed characters in another skit that was presented at a church in the community; the memories of us serving together to bless others through Christian drama, will remain.

Hodgist, I certainly want you to know how your influence and support has helped me to get where I am today. There is a saying that it takes a village to raise a child. It takes many people working together in harmony with one another to have good (God’s) success.

How could I forget how you and the male chorus sang “Send Me, I’ll Go” at my initial sermon.

The way you allowed the Lord to use you in my life is most memorable! To God be the glory for the things He has done; what He is doing; and what He is going to do. Keep pressing forward, Brother Hodgist.

You certainly are part of my history!

Betty A Burnett ~ burnettministries.org