While, owning a business in my early 20’s was a wonderful experience. The birth of my children was and is one of the greatest moments in history for me. However, with that being said there was something missing within the core essence of me being a Hardy Man. My father is a strong pillar and example of what a man is supposed to be, didn’t just give me lectures but he lived the lecture out. He finished college and obtained his CPA. He became a minister of the gospel at a young age and even until this day exercises his integrity in private as well as in public. He is also a husband of my beautiful mother Dr. Cheryl Hardy and can quote to the minute how long they’ve been married.
As for me I had a business but couldn’t heed the demands. I had a marriage but couldn’t communicate well enough to connect, had children but felt enable to nurture. Then one day while Dr. David Ireland was speaking about education and the value of it. Something from within nudged me to go back and register for school. I had a week to register but everything came through and was going back. I had 20 credits left, but after talking to my advisor we worked it out that all I had to take was 12 credits; meaning less money, especially during this recession. Not even knowing that my job was going to lay me off later that year. Nevertheless, that caused me to focus even more. And yes I finished with Bachelor’s in Business Administration!I
It was necessary that I walked. Not just for me but for my 3 sons and daughter. I wanted them to see me bounce back from adversity, complete what I started, so they can put a premium on education. They can value finishing what they start and recognize the hardwork put into studying and practicing to complete a goal. More than anything I pray they can enjoy the moment and opportunity life brings them that challenges their gifts and sharpens the weak dull areas of their core fibers because after they walk through a test they will have enough strength to stand.
Inspiring story.
Brother, this is a great story. I thank you for sharing with us. You are truly a blessing to the brotherhood and a great father, leader, mentor and example to follow. I’ve had the experience of seeing you at your lowest moments of life and you kept moving forward, you did not allow setbacks to stop you along the way even when I know you wanted to give up and throw in the towel, your zealous acts kept you moving forward and now you have a marvelous testimony.
Many times you looked at others as being great, but I’m here to say I’m looking at you as being great. Thanks for not wavering, thanks for being a blessing to not just your kids but to everyone that came in your circle. Some may have counted you out but God knew what He was doing all along. Your story reminds me of Joseph at times, you lost everything but gained it back-such a blessing.
My brother continue to be who God called you to be, and a great example to your children, I pray God speed over your life and Favor, Blessings and Increase over you right now in Jesus name.
Love you brother
CK
Man, Kells those words truly blessed me! Thanks! You have been a great source to lean on and vent to brother to brother! Thanks!
This is AWESOME Al you are TRULY and wonderful person this is a testament to your parents! I am honored to know you!