By Amera Russell/reporter
Author and entrepreneur Carolyn Brooks wanted to make a difference, so she chose to rise above her problems.
Speaking to the Women in New Roles Network Sept. 12 on the Seven Habits of Highly Effective Women, Brooks described her downfalls and said at times she wanted to throw in the towel. However, on several occasions, the champion inside of her would not allow her to give up, she said.
One of the habits she discussed was the power of passion.
“Anyone can have a dream,” she said. “But is that dream your passion?”
Several audience members nodded in response.
Brooks described herself as a fighter, saying the unwanted circumstances in her life did not keep her bounded.
She said she rose above every situation and did not get where she is today without a fight.
“Life’s tough on a good day,” she said. “Have you fallen down? If you can look up, then you can get up.”
Brooks spoke to about 40 women who came from different TCC campuses to hear her message on abuse, divorce, single parenting, financial reversal and her travels from waiting in free food lines to becoming a publisher, author, entrepreneur, business owner and “over-comer.”
“We all are created to win,” she said.
Brooks also described herself as a survivor. With several obstacles to overcome, she said she made a choice to follow her dreams and think like a champion. She told the women not to give up in spite of what the circumstance may look like.
“Make a choice to stay in the fight,” she said.
“For the war may look a little shaky, but the battle can be won by you.”
Brooks has written several inspirational articles that have appeared in books available in local bookstores, including The One Year Life Verse Devotional, But Lord, I was Happy Shallow, Chicken Soup For The Soul — Celebrating People Who Make a Difference and Chicken Soup For The Soul — Celebrating Mothers and Daughters. She will soon release Breaking Free from the Silent Addiction of Abuse, America’s Genocide Exposed.
Brooks ended her present-ation with a final encouragement for her audience.
“Don’t just make it through,” she said. “Become an over-comer.”
Audience members crowded around Brooks to shake her hand, give her a hug and thank her.
