By Llewellyn St. Aubyn Adrian Peter
In the world of cinema, one of the most compelling moments is when we’re introduced to a character who starts from the bottom. We cheer for them as they tirelessly pursue their dreams, undeterred by the adversities they face. We invest our emotions in their journey, experiencing their triumphs and heartaches frame by frame, ultimately sharing in their joy when they achieve their goals. In some way, we live vicariously through them, finding a reflection of our aspirations.
In this real-life narrative, we meet a remarkable individual in Nashville, Tennessee – Dr. Darwin Levi Mason, Jr. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, unwavering faith, and an indomitable spirit. I had the privilege of sitting down with him to gain insight into how he rose to prominence, from his roots in Chicago to becoming the full-time preaching minister at Hillsboro Church of Christ. I discovered a simple yet profound recipe for success that anyone can emulate.
Upon meeting Darwin, one immediately senses a profound difference in his mindset. His way of thinking can be described as that of a spiritual realist. Excitement fills the room as he reminisces about his parents’ dedication to church work, particularly his father’s unwavering commitment. His parents were deeply involved in church activities every day of the week. He passionately recounts their efforts in visiting the sick, participating in musical rehearsals, and aiding those in need, regardless of their religious beliefs, creed, race, or ethnicity.
Unity, he emphasizes, is paramount. His father served as a living example of how people should be treated, regardless of their backgrounds. Darwin was instilled with these principles from a young age, shaping his daily actions. His belief centers on unity and connecting with people to understand one another. Leading people of faith, he learned, means dropping biases and treating everyone with kindness, regardless of who they are or where they come from. It’s a lesson he carries with him to this day.
As Darwin pursued a career in education, his mindset naturally mirrored that of his parents. He saw teaching and ministry as intertwined facets of life. Loving everyone became a Christian duty. “If I love God and I love people, I need to treat everyone right,” he passionately articulates.
Dr. Mason’s professional journey has been a remarkable one. He went from being a Fisk University student majoring in Music and Psychology to teaching music in the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools. He then shifted to teaching history and geography while coaching basketball and track at the Ensworth School. His career took another leap when he became an Assistant Principal at Poplar Grove Elementary and Franklin Special School District. He then served as an Executive Principal at Henry Maxwell Elementary School and John Early Museum Middle Magnet School in Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools. The summer of 2021 saw Dr. Mason becoming the Middle Head Principal at Ensworth, and now, in the summer of 2023, he has assumed the role of full-time Preaching Minister at Hillsboro Church of Christ.
In this new role, he’s enthusiastic about forging new paths and being a trailblazer for the kingdom of God. Dr. Mason believes he has been placed in this position for an extended season to authenticate his work. He envisions Hillsboro Church of Christ as a beacon of Christology, primarily focusing on pleasing and glorifying God. He says the key to success is fostering a personal relationship with Christ. When people fall in love with Christ, everything else follows naturally. This recipe for success is poised to eradicate strife, envy, pride, and malice, allowing people to serve God without the burdens of negativity.
As I spoke with Dr. Mason, it became evident that Hillsboro Church of Christ is poised for great heights. The teachings of Christ, embodied in the hearts of this congregation, will undoubtedly lead to extraordinary achievements that the world will witness. Dr. Darwin Levi Mason, Jr.’s story is a testament to the power of faith and unwavering dedication, a reminder that anyone can achieve greatness with the right mindset and a heart full of love.
