Human agency encompasses intentionality, forethought, ownership, purpose, and self-efficacy. This chapter explores these elements at various stages of Dr. Taisha Johnson's life. Dr. Johnson shares her humble beginnings. Dr. Johnson's journey was profoundly shaped by an absentee father, and her supportive mother, Barbara Blackwell. Her mother’s unwavering support and inspiration laid the foundation for her success. Through her narrative, her goal is to inspire others to stay focused on their quest for purpose and meaning in their lives. While encouraging them to take the time to seek their natural talents as early as possible. Most importantly, her life’s work exemplifies the significance of changing one’s professional focus as needed then sharing one’s gifts with the world.
The Making of Ms. Barbara Blackwell
Dr. Johnson's life began with her mother, Ms. Blackwell, who dreamt of a life filled with a good income, global travels, and accomplished children. Unfortunately, life's hardships diverted Ms. Blackwell onto a different path. She desired nothing more than a good life for her children – a life filled with educational achievements and successful careers, offering rich resources and unlimited possibilities.
Growing up in Shreveport, Louisiana in the 1940s amidst nine siblings and her maternal grandmother, Ms. Blackwell faced financial constraints due to low wages and a crowded household. Being the third oldest, she bore significant responsibility in raising her younger siblings, even sharing her meager meals. Despite these challenges, Ms. Blackwell harbored a profound desire for a better life for herself and her future children.
At 16, she met a young man in the neighborhood who shared her ambitions to escape poverty and the narrow-mindedness of the South. Determined, Ms. Blackwell left her family home, got married, and aimed to fulfill the dreams she had envisioned. However, her dreams faced a setback when she became pregnant, compelling her to drop out of high school to raise her son. Faced with the challenges of incomplete education and limited job opportunities, Ms. Blackwell, along with her husband and their first child, headed to California in pursuit of a life filled with dreams.
Adjusting to life in California presented unique challenges for Ms. Blackwell, as she had to overcome various psychological and socio-economic barriers. Over the years, two more sons added complexity to her quest to become the person she had always aspired to be. Despite the obstacles, Ms. Blackwell later reentered the educational system to earn her GED and an Associate's degree in Nursing. The 1960s presented challenges of racism and prejudices in the workplace, shaping Ms. Blackwell into a formidable force. These experiences fueled her determination to instill in her children the resilience to never quit until their dreams were realized. Harboring tenacity, resilience, and unwavering faith in herself and God, Ms. Blackwell played a crucial role in shaping Dr. Johnson into the person she is today.