Success comes in many ways. It differs from one person to another. It is rare that one immediately comes out triumphant without facing obstacles along the way. We are never excused from the trials of life. We are bound to our darkest time at some point in our life, most especially in the business world, it is never unavoidable. These were also experienced by the millionaire entrepreneur, Ray Mills.
So, who is Ray Mills? He grew up in a dangerous neighbourhood where the crime rate is high, an area right outside of Atlanta called College Park, Georgia. Living in such an environment did not discourage him to pursue his path to success rather it even made him more motivated to fulfil his dreams. This determination led to the purpose of his existence – to make a difference. Just like any other normal person, he also went through a lot of failures and setbacks, especially during the time when he became a victim of cyberbullying because of posting his desperation on social media instead of going and asking for help from local authorities since his daughter was taken from the baby sitter by his ex-girlfriend. He admitted that during that time he was in “a very dark place” because of different tirades against him in cyberspace and making him a laughing stock in the online world. But this did not make him turn away and flee rather he ran forward towards his purpose.
Ray Mills is a believer of destiny and purpose. During the dark times of his life, he found a purpose together with his friend, Londrelle Hall. This marked the historic 550-mile run from Atlanta to Ferguson, Missouri to honor the death of Mike Brown, a teenager who suffered a tragic death as well as to change the image of African-American men. This marked the founding of the non-profit organization called “Run for Justice” which aims to let the voice of the people be heard by everyone. Also, it centralizes with community building, and as he said, “This is the first leg of continuing to raise awareness of police brutality and racial injustice.”
More than a community activist, Ray is a best-selling author. He had written two books entitled “Let’s Start a Business” and “Positively Living”. It is what the title suggests. The former is all about the entrepreneurial world while the latter talks about positivism and going through possibilities. He also established a learning institution named “The Mills Academy”. Clearly, he has a high regard for education. This academic establishment aims to provide a safe, peaceful, and conducive for learning for students.
Ray Mills is more than a businessman. He is a community developer, an inspiration to all and motivator to pursue your dreams amidst the feeling of doom, or the world is against you – just look a step ahead and eradicate pessimism. Ray is an epitome of success both in the business world and a life-driven by purpose. He really is a runner to fight and not to flight.
