Many Are the Plans: Trusting God’s Timing Through Unexpected Detours

Most Fridays I’m working, so having an unexpected day to myself felt like a gift. Lamonte and I decided to keep things simple with one of our favorite traditions, a trip to the Free Library.

We picked out three books to enjoy in between our newest family tradition: What Is Black Lives Matter? by Lakita Wilson, Stick Dog Gets the Tacos by Tom Watson, and Sixth Man Surprise by Jake Maddox.

My younger sister, Mercedes, surprised Lamonte with the entire Harry Potter collection. Since she lives in Atlanta, we’ve been reading the books together over the phone. It’s become our own little family book club. We’re only on Book 1, Chapter 2, and I’m already hooked. It’s such a fun way to stay connected with my sister while creating memories with Lamonte at the same time.

Our plan for the day was simple. Visit the library, grab something to eat, then spend the rest of the afternoon at one of our favorite parks by the water.

God had a different plan.

While we were at the library, I unexpectedly ran into someone I partnered with last year when I taught my Power of Words art activity at her school. The workshop was such a success that she invited me back to do more workshops with the students. That alone made my day. Before we finished talking, she also encouraged me to stop by a business networking event happening that afternoon at Ubuntu Fine Art.

For a moment I thought about sticking to my original plans, but something told me to go. So we ran home, changed clothes, and headed to Ubuntu.

I’ve visited Ubuntu Fine Art several times over the years, and every visit leaves me inspired. The gallery is owned by Germantown native and fine art photographer Steven C.W. Taylor. The name Ubuntu comes from an African philosophy that simply means, “I am because we are.” It’s the idea that our lives are connected and that we grow stronger through one another.

That philosophy isn’t just the name on the building. You can feel it inside the space. Steven has created more than a gallery. He’s created a place where people gather to share ideas, support one another, discover resources, and celebrate creativity. It’s one of those spaces that reminds you that art isn’t just something to look at. It has the power to bring people together.

The event was filled with information about upcoming grants, neighborhood initiatives, community events, and opportunities for small businesses. I enjoyed great conversations, delicious food, and left with pages of notes and several upcoming events I’d like to support.

As I sat there listening, I found myself thinking about my own journey as an artist.

It’s easy to spend hours creating alone in the studio, but days like this remind me that the purpose of my artwork reaches far beyond the canvas. Art has introduced me to incredible people, opened doors I never could have planned, and allowed me to teach, encourage, and serve in ways I never imagined. Running into someone from a workshop I taught last year reminded me that you never really know how far the seeds you plant will grow. One conversation at the library led to another opportunity to teach. That same conversation led me into a room full of inspiration I never planned on walking into.

As I reflected on the day, I couldn’t stop thinking about Proverbs 19:21.

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

That verse felt like the story of my entire day.

I had a plan.

God had purpose.

After the event, Lamonte and I still made our way to one of our favorite places by the water. We sat together watching the sun slowly disappear behind the trees as the reflections danced across the water. I pulled out my journal while Lamonte explored, watched the birds, and simply enjoyed being outside. Those quiet moments together always remind me that some of life’s richest memories aren’t found in expensive vacations or elaborate plans. They’re found in ordinary moments that become extraordinary because you’re fully present.

I left home expecting a library trip.

Instead, I came home with three new books, another opportunity to teach, fresh inspiration for my artwork, meaningful connections within my community, and a heart that feels even more excited about continuing to create, serve, and build right here in Germantown.

Sometimes God doesn’t ask us to change our destination.

He simply changes the path we take to get there.

 

If Joshua 24:15 has special meaning to you, I created an “As for Me and My House” Collector Mug featuring my original artwork and the story of Joshua. Learn more here 👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾
https://andromedacookstudio.com/products/mug-with-color-inside-2