Uncovering Family Truths in Stories of Strength with Jerry Hawkins

Hope Dealer with José Rico

Ever wondered how reconnecting with your roots could transform your life? In this episode of "Hope Dealer," we are privileged to hear from Jerry Hawkins, who shares his family's incredible journey from Mississippi to the Windy City. Jerry offers a heartfelt look into the struggles and triumphs faced by his grandparents as they settled in Chicago's housing projects and found solace in the Greater Harvest Missionary Baptist Church. You'll be captivated by the rich history of this church and the inspirational leadership of Reverend Louis Boddie, which played a pivotal role in the healing of Jerry's family and the south side of Chicago.

As we shift toward self-discovery and healing, Jerry opens up about his own path of uncovering hidden family truths and the socio-economic dynamics that shaped his upbringing. We discuss the misleading narratives about the hood and the internal conflict of being advised to leave the community for success. The conversation takes us back to my school days at Beasley Academy and Whitney Young High School, exposing the subtle segregation within the educational system and its role in perpetuating disparities. Together, we underscore the importance of acknowledging these histories and fostering shared healing to overcome collective trauma.

The narrative deepens as we chop it up about growing up amidst gang culture in Chicago, influenced by the role models within our own community. This episode is a testament to the resilience required to navigate personal, political and familial transitions. We explore the emotional journey of divorce, the professional challenges of working in predominately white spaces, and the eventual success in creating a transformative family center in Dallas.

Finally, we celebrate the grounding practices that reconnect us with the earth and our ancestors. Through Jerry's journey and personal rituals, we explore the intrinsic value found in our cultural heritage and the wealth of our personal narratives. By embracing these elements, we discover a redefined sense of wealth, focusing instead on the spiritual and cultural contributions that shape our identities. This episode is a testament to the enduring power of community, culture, and the shared human experience, inviting listeners to explore these themes within their own lives.

บท

1. Journey to Hope and Resilience (00:00:00)

2. Healing Through Self-Discovery and Reflection (00:10:52)

3. Navigating Difficult Transitions to Self-Healing (00:17:04)

4. Overcoming Challenges and Fighting for Family (00:24:52)

5. Dallas (00:37:15)

6. Discovering Healing Through Nature and Mindfulness (00:53:04)

7. Recognizing Inherent Human Value (01:03:30)