NOTE FROM TED: This talk only reflects the speaker's personal religious views. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfIn this captivating talk, John Matthew Borders IV — Director of Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment for the City of Boston — blends history, faith, and personal experience into a powerful call to action. Through a live social experiment involving just six dollars, Borders challenges audiences to recognize that purpose often comes quietly, waiting for us to reach for it.Drawing on the story of Peter walking on water, he weaves in Boston’s rich, and often overlooked, Black history — from Crispus Attucks igniting the American Revolution to the 54th Regiment’s fight for freedom, to Martha’s Vineyard as the first place Black families could own land. Borders explores how adversity is ever-present, but purpose is always within reach.With vivid imagery, civic pride, and moments of spiritual truth, this talk invites audiences to reimagine their own capacity for change. Borders closes with an unforgettable reminder: “Don’t worry about how small your gift is… because I just changed someone’s life with six bucks.” John Matthew Borders IV is Boston’s Director of Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment, a visionary leader and storyteller who blends history, faith, and culture to inspire action. From throwing citywide championship celebrations on global stages to fighting for narrative change in the city that reared him, Borders champions purpose-driven community building, and the power of even the smallest gift to transform lives. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx