We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Slavoski L. Wright Sr. recently and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Slavoski L. , so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
In life’s trials and tribulations, I’ve discovered an unwavering source of strength and optimism – “My Faith in God!” It’s been a journey marked by moments of despair, uncertainty, and overwhelming challenges, but amidst it all, my belief in God has remained steadfast.
There’s a profound solace in knowing that there’s a divine plan at work, even when circumstances seem bleak. It’s this perspective that infuses every aspect of my life with hope and positivity. When faced with adversity, instead of succumbing to despair or frustration, I’ve learned to turn to prayer and reflection, finding comfort in the belief that there’s a purpose behind every trial.
But it’s not just about blind faith – it’s also about actively choosing to think positively, even when the odds are stacked against me. It’s about embracing a mindset of gratitude and resilience, recognizing the blessings that exist amidst the challenges. Through prayer and introspective, I’ve cultivated a sense of inner peace and optimism that transcends external circumstances.
This journey has taught me the power of perspective – that even in the darkest of times, there’s always a glimmer of light if we’re willing to look for it. It’s a daily practice of finding joy in the little things, of holding onto hope in the face of uncertainty, and of trusting in God’s plan, no matter what.
In essence, my faith has become the anchor that grounds me amidst life’s storms, guiding me towards a brighter tomorrow and reminding me that even in the midst of adversity, there’s always room for optimism.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As the Senior Pastor of the Historic Greater El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, I find immeasurable joy in serving my congregation and community. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in witnessing the growth of individuals in their relationship with God, the transformational worship experiences, and the genuine love shared among our members. These aspects of ministry affirm and solidify the purpose I believe God has placed in my life.
The privilege of shepherding a congregation towards spiritual maturity is a responsibility I cherish. It’s incredibly rewarding to see lives changed, hearts healed, and souls uplifted through our collective journey of faith. The opportunity to guide others in their walk with God is both humbling and inspiring.
Moreover, I am incredibly blessed to have the unwavering support of my loving wife, Umeka Wright, and our children. Watching her thrive in her own endeavors, particularly as the Co-founder and head of Making It Wright Counseling Group, fills me with immense pride and joy. Together, we share a passion for helping and equipping people not only spiritually but also mentally, empowering them to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and purpose.
Our joint commitment to serving others, both through pastoral ministry and counseling, exemplifies our shared mission of holistic well-being. We believe in the importance of addressing spiritual and mental health needs in tandem, recognizing that true flourishing encompasses both aspects of human experience.
In essence, our lives are deeply intertwined with the mission of uplifting and empowering others. Through our collective efforts, we strive to create a community where individuals can thrive spiritually, emotionally, and mentally, guided by the love and grace of God.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Throughout my life’s journey, three qualities have played pivotal roles in shaping my path: faith, persistence, and study. Each of these virtues has been instrumental in overcoming obstacles, achieving goals, and growing personally and spiritually.
Firstly, faith has been my guiding light, providing me with a sense of purpose, hope, and direction. It’s through my faith in God that I’ve found strength to navigate life’s challenges and uncertainties. In times of doubt or difficulty, leaning on my faith has given me the courage to persevere and trust in a higher plan. For someone just starting their journey, cultivating faith can provide a solid foundation, offering reassurance and comfort amidst the unknown. Trusting in God rather than oneself can instill resilience and optimism, enabling one to face adversity with grace and determination.
Secondly, persistence has been essential in achieving my goals and overcoming obstacles. Life is filled with setbacks and failures, but it’s through persistent effort and determination that we can push through adversity and ultimately succeed. Whether it’s pursuing a career, nurturing relationships, or striving for personal growth, persistence is key. For those embarking on their journey, cultivating a mindset of persistence means staying focused on long-term goals, remaining resilient in the face of challenges, and never giving up on their dreams.
Lastly, studying has been instrumental in my quest for knowledge, growth, and self-improvement. Continuous learning and seeking wisdom have expanded my horizons, deepened my understanding, and equipped me with the tools needed to navigate life’s complexities. Whether it’s through formal education, self-directed study, or seeking guidance from mentors, the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong endeavor. For someone at the beginning of their journey, embracing a spirit of curiosity and a commitment to learning can open doors to new opportunities, insights, and perspectives.
In conclusion, faith, persistence, and study are three qualities that have profoundly influenced my life’s journey. For those just starting out, cultivating these virtues can serve as invaluable assets, providing strength, resilience, and wisdom along the way. By anchoring oneself in faith, persevering through challenges with determination, and embracing a lifelong pursuit of knowledge, one can navigate the twists and turns of life’s journey with grace and purpose.
What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?
I wholeheartedly agree with the importance of investing effort in improving areas where we may not be as strong. While I find great fulfillment and success in my roles as a Pastor, what I have yet to mention is that I am also a Police Sergeant. with that, let’s discuss the ever growing and evolving role of leadership. So, I recognize the value in being well-rounded and adaptable. My encounters with people may not afford the opportunity to meet Pastor Wright, right away, they may need to meet Sergeant Wright first.
Even with serving in a leadership law enforcement role. The parallels between leadership roles in both the church and law enforcement are undeniable. Communication skills, understanding people, and effective leadership are essential in both settings. However, I firmly believe that continuous growth and development are key to sustained success.
Expanding my skill set beyond my primary strengths allows me to become a more versatile and effective leader. By investing time and effort into areas where I may not excel initially, I enhance my ability to navigate diverse situations and environments. This versatility enables me to represent myself in any setting and to adapt to the ever-changing demands of leadership.
While playing to one’s strengths is important, it’s equally crucial to recognize the value of diversifying one’s skill set. By doing so, I position myself to better serve and lead those entrusted to my care, whether in the congregation or on the streets. Ultimately, the pursuit of well-roundedness not only enhances my effectiveness as a leader but also enriches my personal and professional growth journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gebdallas.org
- Instagram: @drslwrightsr
- Facebook: Slavoski Wright Sr.
- Linkedin: Rev. Dr. Slavoski Wright Sr.
- Twitter: @DrSLWrightSr
- Youtube: @GEBDallas
Image Credits
1. Ginger Matthews – Corrin Photography 2. CLS Media Group
