THERE ARE specific individuals in our society who stand out as symbols of hope, love, and steadfast faith. Michael Young, a native of Murfreesboro, is undoubtedly one of these remarkable individuals. His life’s journey carries the transformative power of faith, community, and the vibrant impact of love. As a husband, father, community member, Christian, and advocate, Michael Young’s life story revolves around one central theme — his profound love for God and his unwavering commitment to sharing that love with others.
“I was raised in a very strong Christian household. The principles were faith, respect, and a work ethic. So, that was the firm foundation of the household I was in. It was all I knew. That’s all I saw,” Young reflected.
Within this nurturing Christian environment, he laid the foundations for his faith, which would later become the guiding light of his life.
“Waking up in the morning, when I’d walk in the kitchen, my dad would be at the table with his Bible, reading his Bible every single morning.”
Young’s journey through life was not without its obstacles. As a young adult, he lost his father to bone marrow cancer, which set off a chain of events leading to a period of drug and alcohol addiction and rebellion.
But the seeds of faith planted in his youth and the influence of his father’s close friend, Pastor Allen Jackson, were never truly forgotten. A simple phone call from Pastor Jackson led Young to the Be the Bush Ministries and eventually to Canvas Community Church in Manchester. Here, he began his incredible journey to recovery.
The memory of his father’s support and the desire to make him proud encouraged Young to graduate from the recovery program and embark on a new life. It was a journey that saw him marry his current wife and reunite with his children, cementing his commitment to be the best husband and father he could be.
Young attributes much of his transformation to the love and support of his mother, who was the rock of their family. One of the most vital lessons he learned from her was to never give up on people. He now uses that lesson to aid him in the most challenging moments of his recovery.
Young doesn’t shy away from discussing his past mistakes, but he acknowledges that he has been forgiven and his past does not determine his future.
“I’m a three-time felon,” he said. “I’ve got violent charges and drug charges. I’m somebody that shouldn’t even be in this position, but it’s just a blessing in the way God works and how everything went into place,” he said.
His experiences have fueled his mission to show others that redemption is possible and no one should be written off.
Young’s deep desire to reciprocate the love and support he received during his journey to recovery led him to serve his community. Through Big Mike’s Lawn Care, he doesn’t just mow lawns but spreads the love of God with each touch. He starts his workdays with a prayer, asking for guidance and offering prayers for his customers.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Young’s journey has been the support and love from the community and other lawn care business owners.
We’re not competing down here. We’re all trying to make it in life and provide for our families. We all connect. Instead of competition, he sees cooperation and a collective drive to uplift the community.
Looking forward, Young envisions himself being actively involved in the community, especially when it comes to supporting children. Through his lawn care service, he sponsors local sports teams and dreams of removing financial barriers for youngsters pursuing their passions.
Young’s life is a beaming example of how faith, love, and community can transform lives. His commitment to serving his community exemplifies the very essence of “from the heart.” Michael Young, a man of God and a symbol of hope, truly personifies the love and support that our world needs more of.
“I do what I do today because of the people at Canvas Community Church, the people at Forest Mill, and just all my clients and customers. I just feel the love that they’re behind me, and I want to reciprocate the same thing. You don’t have to tell people you love them. You could show love. You show love to people by doing acts of service for people.” GN
