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I admit it! I was a busy child growing up. I remember some days when I would be doing several things at the same time: drawing wrestling men, watching cartoons, playing with toys, wrestling my ‘lil brother, doing pushups, running in and out of the house, asking my sister why her face was weird, dancing like Michael Jackson, all while eating my favorite sandwich (PB&J of course… no crust!)
#GoodNews Fortunately, over the years I have been blessed to learn how to channel that busyness… my creativity, my love for using my hands, my passion for working with others… into small works of good. #DoGood But, convincing my mama of this new direction is another feat… but alas, another story for another day.
Back to business… when I think of busy and productive people (I added productive b/c hamsters are really busy, but they aren’t going anywhere), one of the first people to come to mind is a young lady named Jamechia Hoyle. I call her Big Meech, but um.. YOU can call her Dr. J. I say that with a smile, but it’s also because just this month (August 2012) she was conferred with the degree of Doctorate of Health Science. And oh, she’s 25 years old. 25 people!!!
So there’s no way I could just show you the pictures (which I feel are some of my best work to date) without tapping into her mind to see what she has to share. Honestly, I enjoyed her responses so much that I decided against condensing it; so here we go!
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1. Big Meech! What is YOUR story?
Wow, what a huge question. My initial thoughts are that the story is still a work in progress; however, that seems a tad cliché. My story is one of growth, triumph, victory, defeat, learning, and living out my dreams. I think I’ve had my fair share of trials, but when I take the time to look back, look around and look forward, I know that I’m living a purpose-driven life.
2. Tell us about that purpose.
I believe my service charge is to help the under-served populations of the world. At an early age, I developed this undeniable passion for health. Over the years, it has grown to encompass many aspects of health, including nutrition, infectious diseases, and maternal and child health issues. As a graduate student, I became very involved in evaluating international health care programs and delivering health education programs throughout the world. I believe those experiences coupled with my passion have helped me realize my purpose.
3. I had a great time with you during the shoot. Share what these images mean and represent to you.
I love to capture moments and memories. I’ve taken a lot of pictures lately because I feel like I’m going through a transformation. I think this transformation started with the New Year as I set goals for myself and made a plan to execute these plans. As the year continued, I experienced things that I never imagined I could or would. I cut my hair in February and I still feel the power of liberation. The culmination of it all was my 25th birthday. I can’t even put into words, what happened or what changed, but on that day, I exhaled. In that breath, I let go of all my fears, all my inhibition, all the negative thoughts that were telling me that I couldn’t have what I already knew was mine. The pictures are a visual representation of the transformation of my life from caterpillar to butterfly.
4. What’s next for you after receiving your Doctorate degree?
The first thing I’m going to do is catch up on all the seasons of every show that I’ve missed while studying. Then, I’m going to learn how to sleep like a normal person again. J All jokes aside, I would like to continue working with international communities to educate and empower women and children about various health issues affecting their communities. I also want to do some pro-bono work here in the US. I primarily want to use my skills, my knowledge and my passion to make a difference.
5. How are you pursuing your dreams?
The first step for me in pursuing my dreams is to write them down. When I write my dreams, it becomes an agreement between God and me that I’m going to put in the work and he will either hold my hand along the way or carry me, if the burden of fulfilling my dream gets too heavy. My biggest dream now is that every aspect of my life aligns with my passions and that I’m surrounded by people who can support and encourage me along the way.
6. What is one lesson that the 25 year old you would love to have given the 20 year old you?
Don’t lose yourself. You are brilliant, you are bold, and you are blessed. It is so easy to lose yourself in attempts to conform to societal norms. I would tell my 20 year-old self, to be you. There is nothing more powerful than a person who is confident. Sometimes it may be difficult to maintain your individuality; however, it’s a must because once you’ve lost the essence of you, it’s so hard to regain.
7. What’s your message to others who have a passion that they are not yet pursuing?
You owe it to yourself to pursue your passion because that is where your true happiness lies. One of my friends always encourages me by reminding me that we are merely managers of God’s things. Don’t let fear stop you from pursuing your passion because along the way God will guide you and he will carry you if things get difficult. Believe in you!
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Yessir! Even reading this again has me wanting to run laps and give high fives and call all of my supporters just to say “Thank You for Caring!”
And Dr. J, you freaking rock for those poses in these pics! I know cuz my mama said so! 🙂 #MichaelPhelpsWinning You are what I call a mixture of beauty, passion and purpose…
Today, I’m thankful for the life of my friends and the BLESSING of seeing and helping them live that life abundantly! Oh, and I’m thankful for everyone who is busy with a purpose… Yes, purposefully busy! God bless.
Capitol Media USA 
Thanks for sharing James! I absolutely love the vivid colors! As far as Dr. J, thanks for reminder to follow your passions. Some of us aren’t bold enough to make that step, but I love the way your friend put it, we’re just merely managers of Gods things. I need to write that one down and reflect on it often.
Posted by Dee | August 6, 2012, 9:54 amThanks for your comment! You’re super welcome! Yea, those colors just pop! This was a fun editing session.
You’re right at some of not being bold enough.. actually that’s many of us on most days. The good thing is that you’ve NOW connected with some others who will help you live… abundantly! Let’s get it!
Posted by gjames432 | August 6, 2012, 11:12 amGreat pics and nice personality
Posted by Yeni Makinde | August 6, 2012, 10:02 amI agree. Thanks for your kind words sister!
Posted by gjames432 | August 6, 2012, 11:12 amDr. J sounds like an amazing woman who is living a passionate and purposeful life. Also, what is most intriguing about her story is how accomplished and driven she is-at the tender age of 25! We need more young adults like her who are dedicated to service, and who are willing to make a positive difference in our society. Kudos Dr. J!
Posted by Erica Austin | August 6, 2012, 10:17 amHey, that means a lot coming from you Erica. Yes, she’s VERY driven, which is one of the many things I admire about her daily. I support it in her life as well as yours sister. Thanks for your comment!
Posted by gjames432 | August 6, 2012, 11:13 amDr. J seems pretty awesome. I want to know more about this woman’s work! And she is definitely a beauty!
Posted by Leslie | August 6, 2012, 10:43 amLeslie! Thanks for your comment. I’m trying to get her to start/share her writings as we speak… of course I advocate blogging. We’ll see.. wish me the best. Her story and work needs to be shared!
Posted by gjames432 | August 6, 2012, 11:14 amGood job! I like the interview with her and her responses. She really seems like a nice girl and is DOING things!!
Posted by ASmith | August 6, 2012, 10:50 amNice pics!!!
Posted by D. Sierra | August 6, 2012, 11:16 amAn amazing post for an amazing person. I send many congrats to Dr. J for accomplishing so much at such a young age. It can only go up for her. The pictures are amazing especially the ones set behind the water. Good job James 🙂
Posted by enigmaticgemini | August 6, 2012, 11:39 amAwesome pics! I love these profiles that you do. Very inspiring!
Posted by Sheryl's Pearls | August 6, 2012, 12:20 pmWhat an awesome interview! I absolutely Love this woman! Dr. J! I’ve had the pleasure of knowing her for about 5 years now, and she has always been motivation for me! Very encouraging, with ambition that is completly parallel to great personality, truly one of a kind! I’m proud to call her my friend, and I am looking forward to all the wonderful things she will accomplish in life! Keep it up Hun! You know Brittany, Deedee and I will always be your corner!
Posted by LaPatria | August 6, 2012, 3:14 pmThanks so much Patria…you guys are simply the BEST!
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:32 pmLove that girl!! Growing up I ‘ve looked up to her and I’m so proud of her it brings me to tears! She’s such an amazing and beautiful person. The sky is the limit! *muah*
Posted by Kristen G (@KrissyLongLegz) | August 6, 2012, 3:14 pmI’m sooo happy that I’ve been able to set a good example (minus a few bumps here and there 🙂 )…I am just as proud of you…wishing you nothing but the best as you continue on your journey through life :)!
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:33 pmDr. J. Is truly one in a million. First, for her own uniqueness and second, for the pure boldness of agressively pursing a purpose that bursts with poverty and compassion, she is a blazing a trail. Her family is proud. (There is no need to look outside the circle for a bigger than life role model). Its great to see you setting the standards high, Meci, and enjoying the journey.
Posted by jozefsyndicate | August 6, 2012, 3:21 pmThanks so much cousin! I can’t wait to see what your genius children have in store for us! Lots of love!!!!
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:34 pmYou definitely did well in capturing the bold colors and her love of life and passion. Very nice way to capture her spirit!
Posted by Tanisha | August 6, 2012, 3:25 pmI wanna be like her when I grow up… wait, I’m older than her! Looks like I have a lot more work to do 🙂 Kudos, blessings and a million “thank yous” to Dr. J for being the awesome woman she is and to you GJ for these amazing pictures! I believe you captured the very essence of the vibrant young spirit that she is. Well done!
Posted by Curvydva | August 6, 2012, 3:29 pmDr. J “we are just managers of God’s” things, that’s strong. This was a nice write up about her, seems to be a very intelligent, goal setting/accomplishing individual. Nice blog, keep it going.
Andy
http://www.gentlemanscounsel.com
Posted by Andy | August 6, 2012, 4:05 pmWow.. is the word that comes to mind. No words or expressions can manifest what I feel for my dear best friend and sister for more than 17 yrs. She has been my rock and my sword when in need and to see her truimph through all of the trails and obstacles that may have been hard to hurdle. But sis you made it and all of the blood, sweat, and tears paid off in an enormous way. 25 yr old from a rural country town who has climbed over mountains and swimmed the toughes of seas..soo proud of you..Who would have tought that a country girl could make such an impact…(I did and always have). Told you we going to take over and make ourselves known..Love you and wish nothing but happiness and many more blessings.
Posted by Terrance | August 6, 2012, 4:12 pmYes….you never stopped believe…NEVER…and I thank you for that! You were so influential in every step of my life and it is because of you that I am Dr. J…thanks for 25 years of friendship…25 years of fun…and here’s to the next 25 years!!! Love you soooo much!
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:36 pmYour drive and perseverance is beyond measure. I am so proud of you and all that you have and will accomplish.
Posted by Vashti Grace | August 6, 2012, 5:52 pmThanks so much family!!!
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:49 pmShe is a pure inspiration delivered by a creator of art…ever get tired of being awesome and having such outstanding friends?
Posted by myrica | August 6, 2012, 7:41 pmDr J you made it! I am so proud of you.
Posted by Sgarrett | August 6, 2012, 8:12 pmThanks…means the most coming from the best Aunt EVER!!!!
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:49 pmJamechia… You have no idea how much you inspire me from what you’ve done and have been doing since we’ve met! I have just been content with my mediocre job since I finished undergrad. But you inspire me to do better! 🙂 So proud of you. Yippeeee!
Posted by ♥ Eboni ♥ | August 6, 2012, 8:47 pmHappy I can be an inspiration…continue to dream big and don’t settle for anything less than what you want!!!
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:50 pmDr J or as I call you ” Baby Sis”.. you already know I expect nothing but the best from you! Now speaking from a person of high motivation.. you truly inspire me;)( along with the Headley Crew of course) Life takes us all on turns and twist but it is important to stay focused and you have proven that with perserverance and hard work it can be done! Also strong family values and support helps!
With that said .. this is more than you just being Dr. J. this is about who you are as a person and who you will become and let me tell you .. do not think you are going to take over the world alone..( well maybe you can but I am not going to let you hahaha) I am going to be right there beside you.
Posted by Tosh | August 7, 2012, 10:04 amLet’s do it!!! We have Super Noah so nothing can stop us :)!
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:50 pmDr. Hoyle (so excited to say that) I’m so proud of you. YOU DID IT! You put your mind to it and you accomplished what you wanted to. Years of sweat, grind and tears – you on top and above many people’s levels. You kept your mind steady and didn’t let anything or anyone side track you. Like I always say you are your own competition and everyone else can kick rocks lol…. Well I’m ready to see what you will do next, you already know what’s going on for me and I know you will go great heights in the time coming. LOVE YOU Cusso and I can’t say it enough I am truly proud!!!
Posted by Riza | August 7, 2012, 11:29 amLove you cuzzo!!! No need to keep up with the Jones’, we have to keep up with our own dreams and aspirations. Can’t wait to see what’s next for you!
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:51 pmI love how you captured her essence and personality both in your pictures and storytelling. Vibrant colors really pop. I’m a fan of what you’re doing here.
Posted by Lynford | August 7, 2012, 2:33 pmThanks for the comment Brother! I feel like her essence does all the work! 🙂
Posted by gjames432 | August 13, 2012, 9:43 amYes legs! I can’t decide which is better; the inspirational story or the lovely photos! Amazing work (per usual) Garrett!
Posted by AWordorThree | August 7, 2012, 8:07 pmThanks for sharing my story and helping me to inspire others to dream and believe that it’s possible.
Posted by Dr. J | August 13, 2012, 2:52 pmShe looks like she can be an African Goddess. Anyway, James I really love the worm’s eye view, and how you captured the clouds in the background. Absolutely beautiful. Those head shots on the bottom are lovely. I like the poses.
Posted by sharon | August 14, 2012, 12:26 am