Back in the day, this title alone made someone the most powerful person in any community. No matter the culture, the race or the geographic location of any village, big or small. With this title you were the most sought out person next to the chief.
Powerful is the adjective the best describes Dr. Sampson Davis. Not because of the "God-Like Complex" that some physicians may have because they know they have the power to save lives. But because this man, once a young and rebellious teenager who nearly lost not only his life but his freedom after a run in with the law, learned from a bad experience and went on to empower his own life.
It was that pivotal moment that forever changed his life. From that day on he made a committed to himself and his two friends, Dr. Rameck Hunt and Dr. George Jenkins. Together, they vowed to drastically alter the course of one another's lives. They bonded immediately and shared the same dedication to making life more than what Newark usually provided. They became each other's primary support system and began studying and socializing almost exclusively with each other.
Growing up in the once dangerous city in Newark, N.J., this young, good-looking doctor, father, mentor to others and inspiration to many did not only gain success for only his own life, but sought success for others right in his own backyard.
For many, the goal when you're growing up in the poor and harsh environment of an inner city is to make lots of money, get a great job, a great education and move out quickly. Dr. Davis evidently didn't get that memo.
You may have seen him on Dr. Oz or picked up his book, Living And Dying In Brick City, a book that I am sure will land him on the New York Times best-sellers list just as his other book, with his two companions, The Pact landed there as well. He chose to come back to his hometown and make a difference. He chose to be that change they so desperately need. He was the body of hope that they so desperately want and would have lost sight of otherwise. He chose to be the face of the "good doctor," a face few young black boys may not see or feel they themselves can become. He took on a responsibility that of a big brother, father, leader and a role model.
It is often said that black men run from responsibility to themselves, and their families. But once again, Dr. Davis didn't read that memo either. He took on the role not only of being responsible for his own choices in life, but becoming a positive influence to his community and a sense of pride to his friends and family.
I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Sampson Davis at an amazing event where his two partners of The Three Doctors Foundation celebrated their 13th anniversary and honored legendary songstress and mother of the late Whitney Houston, Cissy Houston. In the room also was my all-time favorite, Dionne Warwick. When I tell you I was in awe, in awe... The woman is solid gold! She has elegance, poise and is so approachable. Also in the same room was my other favorite diva, Jacque Reid, who hosted the event and was truly a star.
Why do I mention these women? Because nothing beats the pride and applause of women when they watch one of their own soar in life. Dr. Davis and his partners made the room light up. They stood tall for those young men. They made their village proud.
Dr. Davis values friendship to the extend that he walks, travels, and builds communities with these same young men he made a pact with some 20 years ago. As men of honor, they kept their word. The bond will never be broken... To each other and to their community.
So when you hear that the Dr. Davis is in the house, I guarantee you, it won't be a painful experience. You may cry a lot, but the tears will be of joy. Bravo, Dr. Davis, you are "The Face of A Real Life Hero!"
See more about Dr. Davis at www.drsampsondavis.com, and be sure to follow him on all his social media outlets at:
www.facebook.com/erdocdavis
www.twitter.com/drsampsondavis
www.facebook.com/drsampsondavis