Page 16: The Future
The Future of Black Men Teach
BRICK BY BRICK: HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT our cause
In his memoir, Will Smith shares a story about the year he and his brother spent rebuilding a massive brick wall in front of their father’s shop, working every day from scratch with limited tools. One day, as they complained loudly, their father came outside with some advice.
“Stop thinking about the wall! There is no wall. There are only bricks. Your job is to lay this brick perfectly, then move on to the next brick, and lay that brick perfectly. Don’t be worrying about no wall. Your only concern is one brick.” Will Smith goes on to reflect:
“I started to see that the difference between a task that feels impossible and a task that feels doable is merely a matter of perspective. Are you
paying attention to the wall, or are you paying attention to the brick?”
It’s no coincidence that the BMT logo is made up of stylized orange bricks. Around the office, at retreats, and in personal conversations, we remind each other that we can accomplish anything if we focus on laying one brick today.
Thank you to everyone who has ever laid a brick for us or with us. Whether you gave what you could spare, volunteered at an event, bought a table at a gala, donated space or services, offered business or leadership advice, featured us on your platform or in your art, helped our fellows with assignments or paperwork, or contributed in any way — we couldn’t bring our vision to life without you, our Brick by Brick Donors.
Minneapolis–St. Paul is a unique and special place, and we wouldn’t be where we are without the community that has nurtured and supported us.
We invite anyone reading to connect with us: invite us to speak or partner with you, get involved, donate funds, services, space, or supplies, and continue to support Black Men Teach.
