The Bethune Blueprint: Transforming Your Life Using the Lessons of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune

By Evelyn I Bethune

The Bethune Blueprint is a book for Faithpreneurs and Black women in particular. It uses the life lessons of my grandmother, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, and connects her incredible accomplishments to some of the strong women of today. Her humanity is proof that no matter the obstacles, we can accomplish extraordinary things if we believe in ourse

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Family Foundation, Inc.
• Release date: Sep 13, 2023
• ISBN: 9781946566195

Evelyn I Bethune

Dr. Evelyn Bethune stands as a beacon of empowerment and achievement. Honored as A Phenomenal Woman in 2015, she was also recognized by the Daytona Beach Business Journal as one of the Most Influential Women in Business in 2012 and 2014. Breaking barriers, she became the first African American woman to own a racing team with a car on the NASCAR Track in Daytona Beach through her Racing for Education initiative. Her recent accolade includes the Diana to Deborah Community Service Award.As the CEO of History in the Making Coaching Network, Inc., Dr. Bethune launched a transformative program aimed at helping individuals realize their inherent greatness. The network's premier Master Class, "Greatness is In Your DNA," encapsulates her dedication to personal growth, drawing inspiration from her lineage as the granddaughter of the esteemed Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.Diverse Professional Background: With over four decades of experience, Dr. Bethune's professional journey encompasses a range of roles, including IBM Budget Analyst, Financial Planner, Sales & Use Tax Examiner II for the Florida Department of Revenue, Insurance Examiner for the Florida Department of Insurance, Commodities Broker, Tax Accountant, and a successful small business owner. Her influence extends to mentoring countless high school and college students, while her passion for conflict resolution and consensus-building shines through in her teachings on "non-violent" communications, encompassing verbal and nonverbal cues.Dr. Evelyn Bethune embodies the spirit of empowerment, resilience, and legacy. As she continues to forge ahead, she remains dedicated to facilitating growth, inspiring purpose, and helping others embrace their inherent greatness.In essence, Dr. Evelyn Bethune's journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to uplifting others, emphasizing the power of heritage, and ensuring the legacy of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune continues to inspire.

Book preview

Introduction

The Bethune Blueprint

Unveiling Your Path to Empowerment

In the vast tapestry of time, there are figures whose stories echo through the ages, their voices carrying the essence of courage, resilience, and unyielding determination. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune stands as one of these luminaries, her legacy a guiding light that continues to illuminate the path of empowerment, resonating profoundly with the aspirations and dreams of Black women in America. Within the pages of the Bethune Blueprint lies not just a collection of chapters, but a transformative odyssey inviting you to embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and growth.

As you venture into the heart of this narrative, you will find yourself woven into the fabric of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune's extraordinary life. Her story serves as a compass, pointing toward the untapped reservoirs of your own potential, the richness of your uniqueness, and the profound purpose that can be found in authenticity.

In the opening chapter, we delve into the roots that nurtured Dr. Bethune's indomitable spirit, mirroring the struggles faced by many. Born into a world that did not easily yield to her dreams, she emerged from humble beginnings with an unwavering determination to transform adversity into opportunity. It's a lesson that resonates deeply, reminding us all that our origins need not define our destination; rather, they provide the fertile ground from which our strength and resilience can flourish.

The story continues with the chapter that reveals the courageous convictions that birthed the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School—a beacon of hope akin to modern educational endeavors. This chapter reveals the challenges faced and the unwavering faith harnessed, inspiring us to summon our inner strength, carve our own path, and stand firm in our beliefs, understanding that within us lies the power to shape our realities.

The merging of institutions that Dr. Bethune championed is emblematic of her fervent belief in education's transformative power. As we explore this merger, we uncover the significance of knowledge as the bedrock of empowerment. It urges us to embrace the journey of lifelong learning, invest in personal growth, and either find or become a mentor, underscoring that knowledge is not merely a tool, but a dynamic force for change.

Through her fight against racial discrimination and injustice, Dr. Bethune's story echoes the contemporary voices confronting systemic inequalities. Her spirit inspires us to rise above barriers with courage and engage empathetically with the world. This chapter compels us to cultivate inner strength, confront adversity with unwavering fortitude, and join hands in creating a better future for all.

Dr. Bethune's legacy extends to the bonds she forged through the National Council of Negro Women, reminiscent of modern efforts to create supportive networks. The chapter dedicated to sisterhood and solidarity invites us to form lasting connections, nurture relationships, and uplift one another. It emphasizes the strength that lies in unity and the transformation that occurs when compassion becomes our guiding light.

The pages turn, revealing Dr. Bethune's ascent to advisory realms—mirroring the journeys of contemporary women who wield influence. This chapter offers insight into the art of advocacy, navigating intricate systems, and catalyzing tangible change. It reminds us all that our voices hold power, our actions can sculpt policies, and our advocacy can shape destinies, urging us to embrace the opportunity to become agents of justice.

As we journey deeper, we discover the chapters unveiling Dr. Bethune's philosophy and teachings, guiding us toward a life infused with authenticity and purpose. The essence of her message echoes the power of embracing our core values, aligning actions with intentions, and nurturing spiritual resilience. It invites us to understand that the path we walk is ours to define, and our unique purpose has the potential to inspire generations.

In the face of setbacks, Dr. Bethune's resilience becomes a beacon of hope and strength. Her ability to transform adversity into triumph resonates deeply, reminding us that setbacks are not the end, but new beginnings. This chapter urges us to overcome obstacles, rediscover our determination, and embrace our inherent worth, demonstrating that our challenges can serve as stepping stones to resounding victories.

Through chapters that evoke visionary optimism, mindfulness, gratitude, and generosity, Dr. Bethune's story weaves together a tapestry of empowerment. Her acts of kindness and philanthropy resonate as a testament to the boundless capacity for compassion within us all. As you read, you will discover that gratitude is a gift we give ourselves, generosity multiplies our impact, and compassionate connections thread our lives with significance.

As the final chapter approaches, the legacy of Dr. Bethune stands tall—an enduring testament to the potency of empowerment. This chapter invites you to absorb her teachings, honor her service, and embrace the responsibility of carrying her legacy forward. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune becomes not just a historical figure, but a guiding light, inviting you to sculpt your destiny with authenticity, resilience, and boundless love.

As you immerse yourself in the Bethune Blueprint, remember that empowerment is not just a destination—it's an ongoing journey. The chapters within these pages offer insights, lessons, and inspiration that are not limited to history but speak directly to your life, your dreams, and your aspirations. Let the legacy of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune ignite a fire of empowerment within you, and let this blueprint be your guide toward a life lived with purpose, authenticity, and unyielding determination.

With Love and Power

The Dr. MaryMcLeod Bethune Family Legacy, Inc.

The MMB Project

Education is one of the Keys To Freedom

Created by Dr. Evelyn Bethune using Midjourney: The facial image is the merging of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Dr. Evelyn Bethune and Mrs. Elizabeth Bethune (Mother of Evelyn)

1

Build Your House on a Solid Foundation

Mary Jane McLeod, a young girl with a fierce determination to rise above her circumstances, was born into a world of challenges and hardships. Born of parents who were enslaved in rural South Carolina in 1875, Mary grew up in a family with 17 children. Her brothers and sisters worked long hours in the cotton fields, to feed their large family and also work the 5 acres of land that her parents owned. Owning their land gave them better chances than most to have a better life than was offered to their people after enslavement. Many had nothing and depended on the fairness of their past owners which always put them on the short end of the stick. Yes, freedom had come but for many not much had changed. Despite these trying circumstances, young Mary was different from her siblings. As the first child in her family born free, she had dreams of a better life and a strong desire to overcome her obstacles.  Her parents raised their children with a strong faith in God and a clear understanding that they were better than their circumstances. 

One pivotal day, Mary accompanied her mother, Patsy, to work. While there, she found herself playing with the white children on the plantation. Curious and eager, Mary picked up a book, only for one of the white children to snatch it away from her, exclaiming, Put that book down nigger! You can't read! In that moment, Mary experienced a powerful realization: she needed to learn to read and write if she was to change her life and create a better future for herself and her family.

Driven by her newfound determination, Mary began to pray for an opportunity to learn. And as fate would have it, her prayers were answered. A Protestant missionary visited the plantation one day, announcing the opening of a school for the children of the plantation workers. Seeing their daughter's resolve, Mary's parents chose her to attend the school. This marked the beginning of her education. As she learned, she taught others in her community, including her parents, to read and write.

Mary's relentless pursuit of education eventually led her to attend Barber-Scotia Seminary (now College) in North Carolina and Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. Through her unwavering dedication, she went on to become a trailblazing educator, political leader, and civil rights activist.

Mary's story resonates deeply with influential women today, such as Michelle Obama. Like Mary, Michelle has dedicated herself to the cause of education and empowering young girls. Both women recognized the power of education to transform lives, and they harnessed that power to inspire and uplift those around them.

In this chapter, we will explore the following points:

Born to Build: Embracing Your Roots

Education as Empowerment: Unlocking Potential

From Humble Beginnings: Navigating Struggles

Lessons in Leadership: Rising Above Challenges

Born to Build: Embracing Your Roots

Mary McLeod Bethune's journey to education began as she stepped into the schoolhouse, embracing the opportunity her parents and the Protestant missionary had given her. With each day, her literacy skills grew stronger, and she became increasingly aware of her own potential. Mary was not content with simply improving her own circumstances; she felt a sense of responsibility to uplift her community as well. As she learned to read and write, she eagerly shared her newfound knowledge with others in her community, including her own family.

Just as Mary found strength in embracing her roots and recognizing the power of education, modern Black women can draw inspiration from her story. Mary's journey demonstrates the importance of acknowledging and celebrating one's own background, even when society tries to dismiss or devalue it. By understanding and appreciating our roots, we can forge our own paths and contribute to the collective success of our communities.

In a world that often marginalizes the experiences of Black women, connecting with trailblazers like Mary McLeod Bethune can be a transformative experience. It is essential to remember that the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us are an integral part of our own stories. By reflecting on the resilience and determination of women like Mary, we can find the strength to build on their achievements and create a brighter future for ourselves and those around us.

Education as Empowerment: Unlocking Potential

The power of education to transform lives and unlock potential is undeniable. For Mary McLeod Bethune, education was the key to breaking free from the limitations that society placed on her as a Black woman in the late 19th century. Through her pursuit of education, Mary not only improved her own life but also the lives of countless others.

Mary's story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of education as a means of empowerment. In a world where access to education is still not equal for all, it is essential to advocate for the right to learn and grow. By investing in our own education and that of others, we can continue to break down barriers and create opportunities for future generations of Black women.

Michelle Obama's focus on education and empowering young girls is a prime example of the continued importance of education in the 21st century. By sharing her own story and advocating for greater access to education for girls worldwide, Michelle carries on the legacy of women like Mary McLeod Bethune.

From Humble Beginnings: Navigating Struggles

Mary McLeod Bethune's journey from a humble background to becoming a trailblazing educator, political leader, and civil rights activist was filled with struggles and obstacles. Her unwavering determination and resilience allowed her to overcome these challenges, ultimately making a lasting impact on countless lives.

Mary's story teaches us that it is possible to rise above the circumstances we are born into and create meaningful change. Her life serves as an example of how the power of perseverance and self-belief can lead to greatness, even in the face of adversity. Navigating struggles and overcoming obstacles is a part of life, but it is how we choose to confront these challenges that ultimately define us. When faced with difficulties, we can draw inspiration from Mary's life and remind ourselves that growth often comes from discomfort and adversity. By embracing our struggles and learning from them, we can move closer to achieving our goals and realizing our full potential.

Lessons in Leadership: Rising Above Challenges

As a leader, Mary McLeod Bethune faced numerous challenges, from discrimination to financial constraints. Yet, she never allowed these obstacles to deter her from her mission to uplift and empower her community. Mary's leadership style was characterized by her ability to rise above challenges and stay true to her vision. One of the most significant lessons we can learn from Mary's life is the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Her ability to remain steadfast in her beliefs and persevere despite setbacks is a testament to her strength of character and serves as an inspiration for modern Black women.

By embracing the lessons in leadership from Mary McLeod Bethune's life, we can develop our own leadership skills and learn to rise above challenges in our personal and professional lives. Her story is a powerful reminder that we can overcome obstacles and leave a lasting impact on the world.

Your TO-DO List