By: Monteque Pope-Le Beau

Many have suggested that I write a biography or share my story, but that doesn’t align with who I am. I value my privacy greatly. However, I prefer solitude over privacy. Therefore, I rarely discuss myself. Instead, I often talk about my family and my upbringing, especially focusing on my mother. Recently, I had ample time to reflect on my life over the past five months due to a recurring illness that resurfaced after a long dormancy. Faced with a choice to confront or evade it, I chose to confront it head-on. Emerging from this ordeal, my perspective on life shifted once more. While I still embrace my solitary nature, I am considering sharing more about myself. So, let me take this moment to share a glimpse into my beliefs and a bit about myself.

My purpose became clear later in life. For more than 26 years, I battled illness. Despite starting as a healthy, active child who cherished the outdoors, my health took a turn. Growing up in a loving, supportive home led by a single mother, I was nurtured to reach my full potential. Homeschooled, I delved into the world of literature, expanding my mind. My mother instilled in me a love for arts, culture, and travel at a young age. However, illness took a toll, leading me into a dark period of poor health. Against all odds, my mother believed in my recovery. Unfortunately, I recently lost her, which shook my world. Struggling to find purpose after illness and loss, I pondered my next step.

I identify as an artist, storyteller, minimalist, environmental and arts enthusiast, but above all, as someone who once felt lost in time. The illness crept in like a thief in the night, stealing away much of my life. Those years marked the darkest period of my existence. Amidst the shadows, my mother was my sole source of light. She became my pillar of strength and, at times, my motivation. Throughout my battle, she refused to entertain any thoughts of surrender. Facing each new day was a daunting task, knowing it would bring more pain and suffering. The relentless cycle of darkness trapped me in a storm of despair. At times, the idea of slipping into eternal sleep seemed inviting, yet my mother’s presence kept me going. She was my beacon of hope.

One of the many things my mother did for me, for which I will always be grateful, was reintroducing me to my art. Her unwavering belief in my abilities and potential brought me back to life. It all began gradually – starting with painting, then relearning how to read, write, and express myself. To be candid, the illness left me with a mild form of dyslexia and aphasia, as well as nerve damage in my left arm. Every part of my body was affected by the illness, from my eyes to my legs, almost reaching my brain. It was a challenging journey, but the end result was worth it. My mother equipped me with the tools for a purposeful and meaningful life. Art has now become my life; it is the essence of my being and the rhythm of my heart. This is my passion and what I cherish doing.

Writing and painting are fundamental aspects of my life, serving as the driving force behind my existence. During one of the darkest periods I faced, the ability to write and paint pulled me back from the brink. They are not just hobbies but the very essence of my being, a gift passed down by my compassionate, talented mother. Her artistic prowess and remarkable character were truly exceptional, leaving an indelible mark on me. In hindsight, I realized how unique and precious her presence was, far beyond what I had assumed. Her sacrifices and unwavering love transcended maternal care, embodying the purest form of affection. Her influence molded me into the person I am today, infusing me with her strength, willpower, and inspiration. Her life force breathed new life into me, granting me a second chance. Her unwavering faith in me propelled me forward, shaping my character and defining my resilience. My mother is not just my support system; she is the very core of my identity.

Allow me to share a few details about my mother, M. Elizabeth Pope. She was not only my hero but also my mentor, teacher, friend, and companion.

She is the reason for who I am today, and I owe her everything. My life’s foundation and growth into the person she envisioned are all thanks to her. As a single mother, she made significant sacrifices to provide for me, imparting lessons in compassion, care, and humility. She demonstrated the importance of seeing beyond appearances and understanding individuals. Teaching through her actions, she emphasized the responsibility that accompanies privilege, emphasizing the need to make a positive impact on others. My mother touched many lives, including mine, by embodying kindness – feeding the hungry, assisting the needy, and lifting those who were struggling. I never experienced hunger, homelessness, lack of essentials, or a shortage of knowledge – my life has been abundantly blessed with opportunities for growth. She instilled in me the belief that there are no limits to what I can achieve, except those I impose on myself. During a period of severe illness when I lost sight of myself, her unwavering love and support became clear. She never gave up on me, even when I had given up on myself, guiding me back to the person I was meant to be. Though she is no longer with me, her love continues to inspire and guide me, reminding me of the incredible person she always believed I could become.

Artistry is a cherished tradition in our family, passed down through generations. Growing up in a lineage of creative individuals, I’ve realized the immense privilege of being an artist. Whether through storytelling, photography, poetry, culinary arts, or painting, creativity defines our core. The power of self-expression brings a profound sense of freedom, giving voice to the unheard. Embracing the endless possibilities of being an artist provides a fresh outlook on the world, making everything seem attainable. My family has taught me that being an artist is not just a privilege but also a duty – to myself, to those I meet along the way, and even too those I may never cross paths with.

Within my family, integrity, honor, respect, character, assistance, compassion, empathy, and loyalty are the fundamental values we hold dear. As an artist, it’s not only about fulfilling your purpose but also about enriching your surroundings. My objective with my art is to elevate my environment and provoke critical thinking on neglected or trivialized subjects. I aspire to transform dialogues and shape our perceptions and interactions as individuals.

I acquired the art of storytelling from my mother and grandfather. They instilled in me the profound impact of a story – how it can inspire the spirit and offer hope to the lost. A compelling story serves as a catalyst for change, a beacon of truth. A skilled storyteller holds the ability to influence the world. According to their teachings, a storyteller crafts vivid images with words, akin to painting. I aspire to craft beautiful and significant narratives with my words as my brush.

I took on the responsibility of managing my mother’s work, which eventually evolved into a larger mission of assisting other artists. Offering them the essential support to achieve their aspirations, I established an organization that not only aids artists but also benefits the surrounding community. Building a connection between artists and the community, this initiative enables those who may not typically engage with the arts to participate. Furthermore, harnessing the influence of the arts, it aims to transform social conversations and have a positive impact.

Since childhood, my passion has been art and aiding others, guided by the loving support of my family. Despite life’s challenges, I’ve chosen unconventional paths to chase my creative dreams. Sometimes, unconventional routes lead to fulfilling pursuits. Becoming a keen observer of life has been my greatest teacher. My journey as an artistic storyteller may not follow the usual path, but it’s one enriched with emotions, character, and the essence of humanity.

It appears that the world has descended into chaos, marked by conflict and a lack of empathy. Society seems to be devoid of hope, compassion, understanding, and patience, essential for a harmonious existence. Our duty on this planet is to support, nurture, and love one another, as without these values, a civilized society and peace cannot thrive. While making a difference on a global scale may seem overwhelming, focusing on improving your immediate surroundings makes the task more manageable. My mission is to positively impact the lives of my fellow human beings, identifying needs and addressing them, alleviating suffering, and solving problems. I aim to assist others using the unique tools and talents I possess.

I craft my creations to inspire individuals, serving as a conduit for thought-provoking topics that delve deep into the core of societal matters. By sparking meaningful conversations about their worries, challenges, aspirations, and affections, I aim to offer a window into the human experience. My art also delves into the ebb and flow of energy, exploring both its shadows and brightness. I believe we are all cosmic particles in an endless universe. Through my poems and paintings, I take viewers on a journey through a range of emotions, actions, and identities, urging introspection and encouraging self-discovery.

I aspire to be remembered for living a meaningful life rather than a materialistic one. I aim to be recognized for my generosity, making a positive impact in my corner of the world. My dreams are ambitious, reaching for the stars and continuing to strive beyond. I strive to embody the values of humility, integrity, honor, and good character, fulfilling the expectations my family has for me. Loyalty, kindness, and compassion guide my interactions with everyone I encounter. My true wealth lies in the friendships I cultivate. I dedicate my life to serving others, taking only what is necessary, living in harmony with nature, and staying true to my purpose and identity.

My life has been a remarkable journey filled with highs and lows, light and darkness. Along the way, there have been various twists and turns, some positive and some negative, all contributing to the person I am today. If asked whether I would change any of my experiences, my answer would be… No! This journey is mine to climb, and when I reach the peak of this mountain, I will seek an even greater challenge ahead. I firmly believe that there is goodness in everything and everyone, regardless of their past or circumstances. It is not for me to judge others but to offer help and make a positive impact in a world that may seem bleak at times. I consider myself fortunate and wish to share my blessings generously. Life is a continuous learning process that shapes us into our true selves and guides us toward fulfilling our purpose. It’s about pursuing what we love and loving what we do, striving for personal growth, and creating a brighter future for the next generations. At the core, I am an artist, a nature enthusiast, a loyal friend, but above all, an admirer of life. I embrace my imperfections and choose to be true to myself, spreading positivity and kindness without bias.

As you continue reading, my wish is for you to discover the beauty that resides within each of us, even during the most challenging moments

Sincerely

Monteque Pope-Le Beau

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