Unsung Heroes of Black History: Tribute to Delia Burgess

Freedom isn’t just about escaping—it’s about rising.

In life, we sometimes face moments that push us to the edge—moments where the future feels uncertain, and fear overwhelms us. But even in those dark times, there’s a quiet strength within us that rises. It’s in those moments of uncertainty that we are called to trust, to believe that God is guiding us, even when the way seems unclear.

Pushing through fear requires resilience and faith in something greater than the circumstances around us. The truth is, we all have the power to rise, no matter what we’ve faced or where we’ve come from. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, to build, and to become more than we were before.

So, when life gets tough, and fear of the unknown begins to creep in, remember: you have everything it takes to rise above it.

The generations before us laid the foundation. Now, it’s our turn. What legacy will you leave? Keep moving. Keep believing. You’ve got everything it takes to rise.

In this episode, I take a moment to honor Black History Month by recognizing not only the well-known figures but also the everyday heroes who have shaped our lives and communities. This episode is deeply personal as I reflect on the legacy of my beloved grandmother, Delia Burgess—affectionately known as Big Mama—who recently passed away just shy of her 95th birthday. I share a 2013 recording of Big Mama’s journey from sharecropping to freedom. Tune in for this inspiring conversation on faith, perseverance, and the enduring legacy of those who came before us.

“I’ve lived a good life. If I were to go today, I would be fine. But I’m going to do everything I can with every day that God has given me until He calls me home.” – Delia Burrgess

 

Topics Covered:

(00:00:37) The Black History Month

(00:01:56) A Tribute to Big Mama

(00:04:33) To put God first

(00:06:00) Giving

(00:08:00) The lesson of resiliency

(00:11:08) Delia burgess: The Unsung Hero

(00:11:39) Big Mama’s Family Background

(00:17:38) Debt and the frustration of never escaping it

(00:18:36) The cruel treatment by plantation bosses

(00:19:51) The risk of seeking help

(00:21:29) A slave mentality

(00:24:16) The night of the escape

(00:26:35) Finally, freedom!

(00:28:58) Never going back

(00:30:15) How civil rights were delayed in certain areas.

(00:31:24) Carrying on the legacy of Charlie and Delia Burgess

 

Key Takeaways:  

“Black history is American history, and Black history is not something that should just be celebrated in February, but throughout the year.”

“Always willing to uplift someone else around her no matter what she had going on in her personal life.”

“Do what you can and let God handle the rest.”

“Never give up on God because He will never give up on you.”

“It doesn’t always have to be money, but using whatever you’ve been blessed with to try to help other people.”

“Many times with Black history, we don’t have as much written history, but the role of verbal history has been huge in our family.”

“Children can be what they want to. This generation can. It’s a big difference for them.”

“Every generation does a little better. Be an example for them.”

 

Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess:

Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243

Email: thesportsdoctr@gmail.com

 

This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines – the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don’t have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.