Is it my "God calling" moment?

Today is the one-month anniversary since I held a press conference announcing my termination from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. I promised to use this blog to keep my friends and readers up to date on the events in my life. So, here goes:

I've been busy working on an exciting temporary, out-of-state writing assignment that ironically presented itself just days after my abrupt departure from the Post.

There's been much time for reflection. In hindsight, I clearly see the path that led up to that fateful day one month ago. Stay tuned. I plan to share that story here soon. However, in these past 30 days, I'm beginning to see another path -- one that's more in tune with my passions and ambitions. I'll share more on this at the appropriate time as well.

To be brief, the Brown Family's getting by. Between feelings of shock, anger, embarrassment and fear about my personal and family's future, there have also been moments of sheer joy -- re-connecting with friends and family, catching up on long-overdue necessities and, most profound, once again existing in that familiar, but exciting realm of limitless possibilities.

The letter below, sent to me by Sister Gail Trippett former principal at Central Catholic/St. Nicholas School, comforts, inspires and speaks to the eternal optimist within me. Sis. Gail challenges me to "send blessing thoughts" to those who orchestrated my termination. That's a tall order, but one that resonates.

Sis Gail gave permission to share her thoughts:

"Hello Mr. Brown,

I was recently talking to Fr. Gerry (Kleba) and found out you were no longer at the Post. I was gravely sorry to hear that such a wonderful voice would not be guiding the minds of the community.

After I heard what happened, I took back the sadness. I hear underneath the situation a call from God. This situation is highlighting that He is ready for you to do more in another venue.

I recently listened to a tape from one of my favorite authors and she said if you are comfortable where you are and it is time for you to move to another calling, the universe cooperates with God to light a fire under your feet for you to move. She further said, "You will either be fired, or some other major event to get your attention to move."

This is your God calling moment. You are destined to touch the lives of many people in ways you cannot imagine. May you walk into your new blessed life knowing that you have all you need to do God's will.

Send blessing thoughts to all who helped cause this to happen. They did not know they were part of a larger plan to bless you even more. Take peace and blessing with you as you move into your destiny. "

-- Sr. Gail

Comments

Anonymous said…
Sister Gail is a wise woman. Look for the signs. You'll get better at seeing them as you go. I have had the same advice--to pray for those it is most difficult to pray for. Hard, but possible. Forgiveness is difficult but necessary to move forward. That doesn't mean you have to want to spend time with them! Keep on keeping on. All the best to you and your family.
Sylvester,
If you remember our conversations in the newsroom before leaving the Post-Dispatch in 2006, I told you God was up to something. I will continue to pray for you and the family.

Be Encouraged!

Blessing,

Gabriel
Anonymous said…
Sylvester, I had NO idea this was going on. I've moved to Chicago, and your email was the first I heard of this complete TRAVESTY!
I do agree w/your new blog post, however, and I think these "God Calling Moments" are moments to listen...and learn. Good, good, good luck to you. I honestly cannot imagine a STL w/o your column and perspective. I subscribed to your blog as a solution!
Take care, Lara
Anonymous said…
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
www.claimid.com/vavaughn said…
Sylvester,
We haven't known one another long but I do not believe that our meetings were coincidental and I know they were not superficial. I knew after our first meeting that God had his hand on your life. The scripture that I believe is a rhema word for you is Jereimiah 29:11, "I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.(The Message). You and yours continue to be in my prayers.
Tammika Dunlap said…
I agree wholeheartedly with Sr. Gail. It is easy to focus on the negative aspects of this situation, but why bother. Those of us familiar with the word of God know that He uses what the devil meant for bad for our good. There is something out here for you to do Mr. Brown that the Post was keeping you from. The Lord has seen fit to loosen every fetter. The question is: What now will you do? Free will is given to each and every one of us, but oh the joy when we choose to walk in the steps that He has not only ordered but sent His son to walk before you. In another one of your posts you called for the black leadership to come forth........I now extend that same call to you. Where will you lead us?
Turd Ferguson said…
Run for Public office. ;)