For my freshman year of college, I attended Florida A&M University (FAMU) in Tallahassee, Florida. There I met an amazing group of young, idealistic African Americans. I am pleased to say that although they may not be young any longer idealism and the theme of following one’s dreams still holds true.
L.Allen is the brainchild of Lawrence Allen, who was one of the members of the aforementioned group. L. Allen is Lawrence’s fashion company. Although he did not complete his studies at FAMU, he is now pursuing a degree in fashion design at Florida State University.
I had the esteemed pleasure of attending L. Allen’s annual fundraiser, Fashion’s Fight, for the American Cancer Society to benefit breast cancer on April 13, 2012. The show exceeded any expectations that I thought I had. It was an amazing showcase and a testament to Lawrence’s perseverance and raw talent.
Before I continue extolling the virtues of my friend Lawrence, let me say that this benefit show was bittersweet for me. Less than a month ago, I lost my second cousin, Kieya Hyman to breast cancer. She was only 29. I’m usually pretty stoic when it comes to death but I must say that I have struggled with her death. Not a day goes by without me thinking of her.
The idea that Lawrence dedicated his beloved craft to raising money for such a cause touched me tremendously. The show was well executed by the staff of L. Allen and very well received by the audience. I was very excited to learn that I was not the only person who had traveled from out of town to attend. In fact, Lawrence’s family came from Orlando and other supporters came from as far away as Boston.
It was in essence my first real fashion show and I felt like I was at Fashion Week. L. Allen had vendors lined up that graciously provided food, freebies or gift certificates. The crowd was enthusiastic and openly applauded their favorite designers and models. I was surprised to learn that stores such as White House Black Market and BCBG had lent merchandise for the event.
Attending the fashion show reaffirmed some important lessons for me. It highlighted the importance of identifying your dream and chasing after it tirelessly. Lawrence and other members of his inner circle proved that.
Demetrius, Lawrence’s fraternity brother and friend, was at the show volunteering as an usher. I was pleased to learn that Demetrius was living out his dream by teaching martial arts. He told me that it was in fact Lawrence who got him started in martial arts when they were students at FAMU.
Lawrence’s roommate at FAMU, who volunteered to be a photographer, is now working with the sheriff’s department. He regaled us with tales about going undercover and other facets of police work.
Although they didn’t complete their degrees, they were clearly happy and working in careers that they loved. I must admit, I did envy them. I have two degrees and I dread going to work. I went to college and graduate school for a total of 7.5 years and I know that my career choice doesn’t elicit a tenth of the contentment that I saw expressed in their faces as they described their jobs. There is something to be said about following your dreams.
I can honestly say that I didn’t have the courage to do that. I wanted a steady 9-5 with finite pay days and structure. I decided against taking a pay cut to do what I was most passionate about doing. I followed the money instead of following my heart. So I always admire people who have the wherewithal to dream chase and attain.
I’m hoping that one day I will stop paper chasing and start passion chasing. In the meantime I will continue to wholeheartedly support those who do and secretly or not so secretly covet from afar.
Please support my friend Lawrence and his company L.Allen in the fight against breast cancer. Fashion’s Fight is an annual event.
No comments:
Post a Comment