previously felt pressures. O’Dell demonstrates a positive attitude
in his roles as a brother, basketball manager and student. Te only remaining dynamic was what he felt in his heart. He needed one more thing to get to the very top. His issues with social acceptance would take a giant stride forward. On October 21, 2011, O’Dell became
Homecoming King. Before the elected King and Queen were
announced, representatives held their breath with anticipation — none more than O’Dell. “I didn’t think I would win. When I heard my name, I was speechless,” he said. Tis event transformed O’Dell’s mindset
into one that was in sync with his actions. He began changing his behaviors and wasn’t so nervous about acceptance all the time. Howard also began to see O’Dell’s behavior change. It was one of his proudest moments to see his son succeed in that way. “It has been a challenge [for me] to get Blake to understand he is valued,” Howard said. “Winning [Homecoming King] showed me what his peers thought of him. It wasn’t the award itself that made me proud. It was the validation of the award that I had always seen.” O’Dell has a strong sense of self now
more than ever. “He’s slowly but surely developing his own identity, finding out who he is and not basing his self-worth on
O’Dell focuses on his school work every day between school and basketball practice at the Decatur Public Library. “I’ve been coming here since the first day of practice,” O’Dell said.
what others think, but having his own sense of it,” Howard said. After the boys basketball game, O’Dell
crosses the same court with the team’s camera and tripod in hand. But this time, the lights, crowd and music don’t affect him. He enters the locker room with all the players and takes part in the post-game routine. Although he didn’t make the team, he has found his place. “We try to create a
Teir take on Blake
HOWARD O’DELL Blake’s father
“Even when he was missing school, he still got his school work done. Most kids in his situation would pack it in. He never did that.”
“He has a genuine desire to please people.”
“He wants to be accepted and liked. He aims to please.”
“Blake’s an example of not giving up on yourself. I’m not saying his jour- ney is over. It’s only just beginning. If you could learn anything from Blake, it would be to not give up.”
family atmosphere [in our program], where everyone is a part of that family — Blake is a big part of that,” Howard said. Now, O’Dell takes more and more notice,
bacause of every day with all that he does for others and how greatly he affects those around him. “I realize I am a good person,” O’Dell said. “I am worth a lot. I’ve always been worth a lot.”
CHARLIE COPP Boys basketball coach
“He brings absolute reliability and invest- ment.” “Blake is the perfect example of overcoming issues and putting himself out there. He has continued to do the things he loves regardless of his issues.”
“Being part of the team helped him feel accepted and helped him move along with some of his struggles.”
“He shows up for a team that he doesn’t play for, doesn’t get paid for and doesn’t get public recognition for, but he still shows up.”
TERESA CROSS Adviser
“I couldn’t say I’ve taught Blake anything. I’ve just reminded him of things he already knew. “
“I love his personality and his forti- tude. He’s not giving up. He’s persisting through everything, and he’s reaching out if he needs help.”
“He’s become much more independent than he used to be, and his study skills have grown tremendously.”
“He’s opening up more, I think. He’s a sensitive soul.”
DECEMBER 2011 • CARPE DIEM
21
Photo by Charlie Shew
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