So, yesterday I kicked off a 30 day challenge called, “30 days of Thanks – #SteeleThankful.”  Since we are in the month of thanksgiving I thought this challenge would be encouraging for all who choose to participate, but especially for me as an entrepreneur.

To participate it’s very easy.  All you have to do is use the hashtag #SteeleThankful on all social media, and at the end of the month I have a special surprise for those that have shared the hashtag!  Remember it only works if your profile is open.

I hopped on Periscope for Day 1 and expressed how thankful I am for my family.  Well, on Periscope today I will talk about community.

You’ve heard the saying, “it takes a village to raise a child?”  You have right?  If not, you must know that it truly takes a community to raise one child.  Yes, I said a COMMUNITY, or village.  Even though I’m not a parent myself, I do know that it took a lot to raise me, and I’m sure my parents were very thankful for the help.

My personal village, I am thankful for Mrs. Lee that made sure I was able to get in the house when both of my parents worked and I was nervous about being a latchkey kid even if it was only for a few hours.  The Lee’s also taught me that black people HUNT! I’ll never forget the visual of the deer in the backyard.  Lol.  They loved me like I was one of their own, and their grandson was my first friend ever!

Ms. Long that watched me until my parents got off work, filling the void when my grandmother was sick and was unable to keep me.  The Gilson’s, I was born on their anniversary, nothing gets more special than that!  Mr. Dana, would meet his friends at the local grocery store for coffee and donuts, and I learned that I shouldn’t make a detour to the grocery store before school, which led to a  lecture on the importance of not being late for school!

The Broyles’ family on the corner, always participated in holiday decorations, the kids always looked forward to their Christmas decorations.  The Lewis family let me hide out at their house, and we jumped rope all day!  The Isom’s, Dixon’s, etc. You were my village.  I may be forgetting some, but I heard great memories about the neighborhood even though some families were before my time.

My grandparents who taught me the importance of literacy, financial stability, and home ownership/independence.  Mr. Joe, and Mr. PeeWee, it was my pleasure helping my granny to serve you.  My grandparent’s neighbor, Mr. Jack who had the gift of storytelling, and  was right there to help my dad move me into my college apartment.

The formation of my village began at 1070 E. Main St.  I am so thankful for my community.  They helped shape my childhood and my story.

What are you #SteeleThankful for?  Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Periscope for the conversation.