GLIMPSES OF THE WARRIOR WITHIN

Lynn Seidel- Retired Teaching Supervisor

University Wisconsin Milwaukee

 

It was 1976, the first year of Wisconsin’s mandated integration of students program. 

Diedra Cole was a “pioneer” in this program, leaving her neighborhood to embark on a new journey. This may have been her first “Glimpse of the Warrior Within”.  This was a true warrior step as she navigated through new situations 

and built strong friendships in this new environment. 

I noticed immediately that she was a strong 10 year old girl, that had a love for learning.  Her academic skills were excellent and her confidence was apparent. She was admired by her peers, but made sure she remained true to herself, by not following the crowd. Teachers try not to have favorites, but it was hard not to admire this kind, intelligent, beautiful child. 

I continue to be proud of her today and am thrilled to have been able to stay in contact with her through the years. 

I can only hope, that I was a small part in instilling the confidence and a can-do attitude which she possesses today.  Forty Five years later Diedra has shown that she is an empowered, insightful, courageous woman who continues to be a  beautiful woman both Inside and out. 

Much Love. 

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Kwasi Craft- Milwaukee, WI June 20, 2020

 

Just got done reading your best seller . I have brotherly love for you Queen Mother and  King De Mille Cole -Heard and Queen Tiara L. Cole Yes your book is a inspiration to me on so many levels . You have been blessed and through these difficult times of  the senseless violence and murders you have moved me to study the word of our Creator despite the corruption of the European devils. Praying for you and your family always . Your truth was life changing and it moves me to re-think and allow God to order my steps on how to prevent the killings of our Afrikan people by the police and others.

I am so blessed that you have shared your heart and I can see how powerful the God in you can be. You are beyond amazing ,love you Sensei. 

Journey on Shihan again much love and respect and thank you I am so moved.....

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TC Underwood  Atlanta, GA

5.0 out of 5 stars Great read!!!!! 

Reviewed in the United States on January 4, 2021

 

This book was really inspiring. The author told an honest story that was heart felt and surely relatable. I could not put it down. I realized that no matter my circumstances I am a warrior. Hope she releases another testimony because we need these success stories, especially right now. Bravo!!!

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Samuel Scott   - Capitol Heights,  Maryland

5.0 out of 5 stars VERY Empowering! 

Reviewed in the United States on December 27, 2021

 

I found this book to be VERY empowering! The story of a Woman Warrior who refused to be defined by society or circumstances is a MUST read!

Every school should give one to the young teen girls so they can be inspired to become the BEST version of themselves.

Highly recommended!

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Philip Scott- Phoenix, AZ. June 4, 2023

 

You are truly a dynamic person Diedra. I really admire your tenacity, your faith and trust in God, your commitment to martial arts, your closeness with your siblings, your mom, and, of course, your motherhood.

You are a great communicator, and you're very analytical, you have very good foresight and vision. Honestly I just have to  get this out, none of us are perfect, God knows I'm not, lol, we all have our ups and downs, and through your down times and struggle you keep your head up high, you, fight, you fight, and you fight, like a true warrior through your struggles, and no matter what, you maintain a big smile, and you maintain laughter. 

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Tiffany Dean- Augusta, GA Oct 10, 2024

 

WOW AUNTIE!!! I just finished your book and I absolutely love it, you did an amazing job, some of the book was so inspiring and it felt like u was talking thru me, in some of your own events of life and the words of wisdom I felt in my soul, and have been thru the same exact things, but the most I felt was you having a certain feel for all the children in the family and that is soooooo true, we don't talk often or even see each other often, but everytime I see or talk to you, in my eyes I see my mom, your looks, your convo you are so beautiful to me, I love you soooooo much auntie,  it's just something about you that just melts my heart every time, but anyways I can't wait for the next one, im officially a fan..lol...love you auntie Diedra, i have a  real life warrior in my family and im proud to say shes MYYYY AUNTIE