Terrence Minor to Mr. Cunningham

On Friday, July 22, 2016 I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. D.R. Cunningham. My conversation with him was very inspiring and I learned a lot. Mr. D. R. Cunningham came from a military- based family, and was born and raised in the Prince Georges County area. His parents dreamt of him going into the military as well and although he saw himself doing other things, they never stopped supporting him. I think what intrigued me the most, was the fact that Mr. D.R. Cunningham never gave up and stayed motivated. Being able to hear someone talk about their job so highly and be some enthusiastic about it, gave me a different type of motivation. For someone to be in the career that they love and enjoy is amazing to me. Mr. D.R. Cunningham is a self-made businessman and works with the youth to not only uplift them but to give back to the community. Being a young black male and coming from a single- parent household, I was moved knowing that there is someone out there that is willing to help people like me. Because of my circumstances, I was taught to always work for what you want because nothing in life is handed to you point blank period. He talked to me about his past and the different trials he went through. He also explained to me that he wasn’t always the best kid but he got his act together and actually put effort into his vision. Because I show that mentality and I’ve been in that same position, I can relate to what it is that Dr. Cunningham was saying. He explained to me that, I can accomplish anything I want and if I’m going to do something, make sure it’s something I’m passionate about.

I really do believe what it that he was saying. If you want something bad enough, you’ll do anything to get it. Mr. D.R. Cunningham asked me, what it is that I see myself doing as far as my career goes. To be completely honest, I don’t know just yet. I’m still transitioning and trying to figure out who I am as a person. I’m still learning, and I’m new to a lot of things. But he told me to never settle for anything, and to find what truly makes me happy. I learned so much from the conversation I had with Mr. D.R. Cunningham. He let me know that you should always have a plan. A goal without a plan is just a dream. He told me to stick with whatever it is that I want to do; polish and perfect it, so that when others see or hear about it they’re persuaded and compelled to be involved. When you know what it is that you’re doing and you’re knowledgeable about the subject others want to jump on the bandwagon. They’re willing to support you. Hearing that from him and knowing that people would be willing to support me and back me up is amazing, and I would love to experience that. Its great motivation to sit back and hear somebody in is position to give me advice in order to accomplish my future goals. It gave me the push that I needed to never stop and to keep grinding. After the conversation I had with Mr. D.R. Cunningham, I was honored that he took the time out to talk to me and instill certain values in me that I never considered before. He told me that you shouldn’t just look you’re job as a source of money, but you should actually enjoy it and take something from it. Never be complacent and just try to get by, but do things whole-heartedly. He let me know that you’re circumstances don’t define me. I can change them, but don’t let them change you. No matter what type of family I come from, or the situation I’m in, I can be bigger and better than that. Not only was the conversation we shared motivational, but it was very inspiring. I took a lot from it, and I’m glad I had the opportunity to sit down and not only talk but to listen and learn.

Thank you!

Terrence Minor