By Tim Scott
If I could have only one politician speak to the students of Lancaster Bible College | Capital Seminary and Graduate School in 2021, it would be Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina (2013-present).
Why? Senator Scott epitomizes "the American Dream," a dream achieved by hard work, with others, and in dependence on God.
Interestingly, Senator Scott begins his book by recounting a very unusual and unexpected response of President Trump in the wake of the 2017 Charlottesville riots. Scott had criticized a remark made by the President and was "summoned" to the White House. An interesting conversation ensued, which included a questions from the President that shocked Scott: Trump asked, "What can I do to help?"
Scott was ready with an answer. He unveiled his Opportunity Zones legislation, a program that infuses private investments in depressed areas classified as Opportunity Zones. These areas comprise more than 30 million Americans! What started as a very uncomfortable and potentially divisive conversation became the launching pad for Scott's key legislative initiative.
Scott's philosophical approach to achieving "success" in this country can be seen in these words:
"My dream is that they will begin to realize that their energy and skills are the most important tools for moving ahead and partaking of the prosperity that is achievable in our nation. My hope is that they will come to understand that progress--REAL progress--comes from what individuals do for themselves--and not what is simply handed to them." p. 25.
Family plays a significant role in the life of this man. Senator Scott expands his Twitter biography in Opportunity Knocks, "Just a South Carolinian living his mother's American Dream." Scott is quick to credit is grandmother and his mother for the pivotal roles they have played in his life:
In spite of all the challenges in front of her, Grandmother was always happy, always encouraging. I liken our family to 2 Timothy 1, where the spiritual heritage of Timothy runs through his grandmother and mother, as does mine. Prayer, hard work, love, encouragement, and discipline, she was truly the embodiment of why we are here. Her prayer walk was so important to us, and she was responsible for what was the closest I have every come to seeing a miracle." p. 30
I appreciate Senator Scott's work. A man with all the reasons to blame others and wait on recompense; he doesn't do that. Scott lives in the tension of an ugly past, tenuous present, and hopeful future.
As to the past injustices: "While I do not believe we can blame all of our issues on what occurred in the past, we need to have a true reckoning with what those tragic times really meant. Whether it's the Trail of Tears, or slavery, or Japanese internment camps during World War II, there are long-lasting scars on the psyches of certain groups of people in this country. And when we come together to solve problems, it is absolutely necessary for us to consider their frames of reference even if it makes us a little uncomfortable." p. 53
As to the present: "My hope for our country was born on an Air Force base. One American family, one American patchwork quilt. The patches are black and white, red and brown, bound together by the threads of democracy, the hope of freedom. . . . I would learn to fight for people of varying backgrounds because I felt like it was my responsibility, my job; it was as if the good Lord gave me a passion for protecting and seeking justice for all people." p. 54
As to the future: "Success is created in studio apartments and garages, at kitchen tables, and in classrooms across the nation, not in government conference rooms in Washington." p. 251 Scott's vision of success hinges on hard work, sacrifice, and appropriate governmental assistance. Chapter 15 details his 2030 vision for America.
I appreciated that Scott does not pull punches when it comes to racial bias, neither does he lean on it as a sole rationale for economic and educational disparities. He lives in that uneasy tension and, in doing so, helps to bridge political divides.
Some of my highlights from Opportunity Knocks
Words to live by: Congressman John Lewis told him, "Never, ever become bitter." p. 43
One of my favorite Senator Scott quotes: It's hard to insult people into changing their minds." pp. 55, 238
Senator Scott's life testimony "My life is a testament to God's love, a mother's love, and the love of my mentor." p. 44 (In a speech he delivered on the Senate floor in July 2016)
Thoughts on failure: "My biggest victory at that point was in defeat, an experience I would encounter over and over again. . . . Defeat opens our eyes to the experiences that we may not have otherwise seen." p. 129
The importance of relationships: It is easier to get a job with a relationship than with a resume." p. 226 In light of that he encourages young aspiring professionals to get on someone's team even if they are there as an intern.
President Theodore Roosevelt once said, "Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the change to work hard at work worth doing." Senator Scott exemplifies these words in life, business, and politics. As a fellow Christian, I appreciate the Senator's unapologetic and unwavering faith in Christ.