We recently had the chance to connect with Nick Heyward and have shared our conversation below.
Nick, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
I am being called to transparently share my struggles and create an environment of love and acceptance for all. There was a time in my life where I did my best to bypass my failures and shortcomings. I never wanted to appear perfect, but I also didn’t want to be judged by my mistakes. I have grown to be completely secure in who I am and what I have been called to do. My struggles made me who I am while my faith reminds the world that we can be conquerors if we trust in God.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am the Visionary of Cornerstone Fellowship and Prophesied Legacy Ministries, LLC. Cornerstone Fellowship is a place of worship located in Yemassee, SC. We recently celebrated our three year anniversary and we stand as a hospital for all who are hurting. As a start-up church, we have a small in-person congregation but have grown a large virtual following, supported by individuals across the U.S.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child I believed that my presence didn’t make a difference and my voice was unimportant. I believe I suffered from depression as early as elementary school. I learned to mask it with good grades and being polite. I wore a mask to hide my pain, and suffered in silence for years. As an adult I have learned that my struggles with depression made me the man I am today. My story of bondage was transformed into a testimony of victory when I realized I went through my struggles so that I could encourage others and help them find deliverance. I humbly accept that my voice matters, my presence is encouraging, and my testimony exemplifies the love Christ has for all of us.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me that you find your tribe in the valley, not on the mountaintop. The individuals that reminded me of my potential, and encouraged me to push forward all came into my life when I was at my lowest. They never took advantage of my gift, but they protected my calling even when I could not accept my calling. My tribe loved me when I had nothing to give, so when I finally had something to share, I gave it freely. They showed me what real love looks like when I was at my lowest.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
Sandra Whittington-Boone became my work mentor back in 2008. She was the general manager for a big vacation club on Hilton Head Island. Sandra was small in stature, but her huge personality lit up any room. I picked her as my mentor because everyone loved working for her. We spent tons of time planning my career, and somewhere along the way, we became friends. Sandra was always no-nonsense yet professional, never relying on her title to get things done. People helped Sandra because they believed in her vision and believed it could be achieved because of her leadership. Many times today I evaluate my performance and ask myself would the decisions I’m making make her proud or would we need a heart to heart in private. 17 years later, and I still remember her like it was yesterday.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
Late at night when I sit in my backyard and listen to nature while I look at the stars.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.plmcornerstone.com
- Youtube: PLMCornerstone
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