In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Dr. Lucille O’Neal, a woman of remarkable strength, resilience, and inspiration. Known to many as the mother of NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, Lucille’s story extends far beyond the basketball court. With the release of her updated memoir While I Have Your Attention, Dr. O’Neal invites readers into her deeply personal journey of self-discovery, faith, and triumph over adversity.
In this candid conversation, Lucille opens up about the powerful life lessons she’s learned, the importance of self-love, and the significance of returning to education later in life. From overcoming addiction to becoming a role model for her children and grandchildren, Dr. O’Neal’s wisdom and transparency shine through as she reflects on her experiences. Join us as we explore the heart of her new book, the lessons that shaped her path, and the enduring message she hopes to leave with her readers.
In your updated memoir, While I Have Your Attention, you share a deeply personal journey. What inspired you to revisit your story and update it for readers today?
I was encouraged and inspired to revisit my story because it is still relevant today. Many people still don’t know my story or even know me. In the memoir, I’m transparent and open about things I’ve experienced over the past 40 years or so. Some things have changed, and I’m still able to encourage those I come in contact with. Being able to “walk it like I talk it” keeps me pressing forward.
Your book touches on the importance of self-love and confidence. What advice do you have for women, especially those in midlife, who are struggling to find these qualities within themselves?
I urge women who are struggling to find their self-love and confidence to do a self check! Pick up the dreams you’ve laid aside and begin to redirect your focus on what it is you want to accomplish in your life. We only have one and we deserve to be happy in it. Just remember that “faith has feet,” so get moving. You are equipped with everything you need. Believe it.
Your son, Shaquille O’Neal, wrote a powerful foreword for the book, highlighting your influence in his life. How does it feel to have such a profound impact on him and your other children?
Today I stand as a very proud mother. This was not always the case because I did strive to make myself worthy of being called a good mother. I’m happy that I can now have a positive influence on all of my children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. I speak truth and lead by example today. I’m proud of myself and the woman I worked to become. Thank God.
You went back to school in your 40s to complete your higher education. What was the driving force behind this decision, and how did it feel to accomplish that dream later in life?
The driving force behind my decision to go back to school was the fact that I encourage education in my household. I wasn’t satisfied with just a high school diploma. One of my dreams was to go to college, so when the opportunity presented itself I jumped at it and couldn’t let it pass. Dreams do come true, maybe later than most. I learned how to encourage myself. Higher education for me was necessary.
In While I Have Your Attention, you mention the grip of drug addiction within your family. How did that experience impact you as a mother and how did you approach healing from that trauma?
In the grip of drug addiction, I saw a glimpse of who I did not want to be. Although alcohol addiction was no better, I was able to get through that by prayer and spiritual healing. My mother prayed hard for me! I did not want to continue to embarrass my children or my family, so I made a vow to turn my life around.
Looking back on your life now, what would you tell your younger self, especially during the moments when you faced your greatest struggles?
Looking back on my life, I would tell my younger self to: not be in such a hurry to grow up, remember that life is meant to be lived at an enjoyable pace while learning to navigate each season of your life, don’t invite trouble if you can avoid it, learn to put yourself first at all times, have respect for yourself, and know your worth.
Photo courtesy of Dr. Lucille O’Neal
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