We had the good fortune of connecting with Robert Harper II and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Robert, what do you want people to remember about you?
When I think about the word legacy, I automatically think about two words …impact and inspiration. At the end of my life, I hope I’m remembered for not just what I was able to accomplish, but rather what I was able to overcome while in pursuit of the accomplishment. That’s the true measure of a man or woman. I’ve learned that it’s not so much the destination that inspires people, but rather the journey and the path that one takes to get there. I want people to know I had faith in God but more than that I want people to know how that faith was developed. I want others to know my faith grew because In the midst of adversity I decided to trust in the promises of God, when I fully didn’t understand His plan. I want people to know I had courage to accomplish my dreams, but I want them to also know that the courage I displayed wasn’t without fear and uncertainty. I want people to know I stood boldly for what’s right because of many nights kneeling in prayer. I want people to know whatever success I was able to achieve, was not without sacrifice. The purpose I was blessed to fulfill, was not without pain. I want people to know that despite life giving me many reasons to cry, I found many reasons to still laugh. I want to be remembered for showing sympathy when I was tempted to display anger. I want to be remembered for showing compassion when I was tempted to display judgment. I want to be remembered for showing up and giving my best when life gave me every reason not to. Hopefully, by living that way I can impact and inspire others to do the same. That would be a great legacy.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Well i like to tell people that I’m a motivational speaker, minister, author and educator but at the end of the day I’m just a SERVANT. I’m truly grateful to serve others. I believe what makes me different or sets me apart from others is just my ability to show compassion. I understand life is not fair, nor unfair, but life is life. The unfortunate events that happen to us, visit us all. People need compassion. People need a helping hand rather than a judgmental finger. What sets me apart is found in my ability to meet people where they are, but love them enough not to leave them there. What makes me proud is just knowing the work I’m doing is meaningful. It makes a difference. To have someone message me and let me know my book blessed them or to have someone come up to me after I finish speaking, saying what I said resonated with them or that it was “on time” makes me extremely grateful. I’m grateful because God would use me to inspire, uplift, encourage, or redirect someone’s life for the better. I got to where I am today by preparing (I love the craft) , being consistent, and an unwavering faith in God, myself and humanity. One of the lessons I’ve learned is that you have to live the message. That’s where my power comes from. I believe people can feel the authenticity. I’ve had moments where I thought I could “fake it til I made it “. True confidence come from doing the hard things. Confidence comes from the man you are becoming when you’re not on stage. That’s how you attain real confidence and not superficial confidence that’s predicated upon the opinions of others. You can’t skip the process. I want people to know we are all in this thing together. I experience the full range of human emotions just like anyone else. I’m battling, struggling, and fighting every day to be the best version of myself.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Things we must do in Houston Breakfast Klub Turkey Leg Hut Waterfall downtown Museums are great in Houston Ride your bike downtown Cool Runnings (Great Jamaican food)
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So many people I could shoutout. So many people have made a lasting impression on my life for good that I’m forever grateful to. Unfortunately, I can’t list everyone, but I will say there has been no greater influence for my success than my beautiful family. I can not remember a time when I didn’t experience their relentless support and unconditional love. I pray I’m making them proud daily.
Website: www.RobertHarper2.com
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Linkedin: Robert Harper
Twitter: RobertNHarper
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Youtube: https://youtu.be/DNkSP_TowKM