"Notorious" Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman

During the entire month of February, we honor African Americans
for their outstanding contributions to the world. My favorite heroine is
Harriet Tubman, whom I believed had an extraordinary gift.

Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in 1819 or 1820 in Dorchester Country,
Maryland. Raised under harsh living conditions, Harriet learned early in life
to be strong and believe in herself, so much so, she escaped from slavery to
freedom in Canada. Harriet’s love for her family and others still held in
slavery resulted in her returning to Maryland to lead over 300 people to
freedom by the Under Ground Railroad.

Tales of her exploits leading able-body men, women, and children through
perilous surroundings without losing one person are highly publicized. One may
wonder how Harriet could outwit the patrols or slave hunters and their dogs
that searched the woods and roads for runaway slaves. In many of the historical
texts, Harriet is described as devoid of personal fear. She was shrewd, determined,
and courageous, all great qualities that aided her. However, little is
mentioned revealing her special gift. A gift I believe helped Harriet to
successfully accomplish her escapes to freedom not one time but many times.
Harriet communed with the angels.

As a child, Harriet was hit in the head by a white overseer for refusing to tie
up another slave who had attempted to escape slavery.  Due to this
childhood injury, Harriet suffered Narcolepsy, a sleeping disorder. Harriet
would fall asleep at anytime and anywhere. Yet she and the other slaves were
never apprehended or harmed while escaping to freedom. Harriet would actually
threaten anyone with a gun who tried to return to slavery because of fear of
the unknown.  I believe that Harriet had an unwavering faith in a Higher
Power to take care of her and the others. When she felt into a sleep slumber, I
imagine that Harriet listened to the angels who were her guides during those dangerous
times. Not only did she listen, she trusted the directions they gave her to
overcome all obstacles on her path to freedom.

After her role as a champion for freedom, she served as a soldier, spy and
nurse during the Civil War. Harriet, a woman of no education and limited
resources, had a resounding fortitude of strength and the love of life and
freedom--the qualities that count. Who is your heroine or hero?