Something that I find important are these small words; Thank You. It's something so casual that we throw around when someone holds the door open, puts away the dishes, or completes a menial task. However, we need to remember the true meaning behind these words more often.
We are currently living in a world where everything is negative. Since March, we've been dealing with COVID, we've got racial injustice, an economic downfall, fears of getting sick, we've even fought over rolls of toilet paper. I feel like this is the worst election year we've been through, things have been so nasty.
I'd like to dedicate this blog to those who have inspired me as I've spent the last five years in the field of journalism. There have been many people who have influenced me on my professional journey. From former professors to industry leaders, I've heard your words and I have taken them with me as I've gone on to bigger and better things.
In October, I was given the opportunity to attend a book launch for Hoda Kotb's new book; This Just Speaks To Me. I was excited to learn more about the behind the scenes of the TODAY Show. When I logged in, to my surprise, Jenna Bush Hager was hosting Hoda's book talk! I have grown fond of Jenna since reading both her books, so this was another chance to hear what else she had to say about the world of writing.
Hoda is someone I have always loved. I don't know what connects me to her, but I've been drawn to her since my early days watching the TODAY Show. Her smile is warm, she takes every story to heart, and she never forgets where she came from. During her book talk, I learned that we had a lot more in common than just the journalism field.
Hoda shared her stories and experiences with bullying. Like me, Hoda moved to a new place and started at a new school when she was in middle school. While she was talking about her experiences and the bullying, it brought me back to my childhood trauma with bullying and being made fun of.
I've often said that those who are bullied often take care of people differently. I am the kind of friend who is a giver. If anyone calls me and says that they've had a bad day, I'm the first one to send an e-gift card or flowers. I organized fundraisers for charities that I love. I donate to as many causes as I can when my friends are raising money for them. I support my friends kids with wrapping paper sales or chocolate bar sales. I think that comes from my experience as an outcast. I just want to love everyone because I never want to be the cause of anyones pain or suffering.
I've actually had my own personal experience with Hoda. By now, those of you who read my blog know, I am a big fan of Paula Abdul's. In 2016, she invited me and my best friend to come to the TODAY Show with her when she announced her tour with New Kids on the Block and Boyz II Men. We were sitting backstage at the show with Paula and Hoda happened to walk by. I was absolutely star struck to see her in person. I didn't have the courage to say anything to her, but I couldn't believe she walked right past us.
Something that I've constantly struggled with when it comes to journalism is compartmentalizing. Hoda shared how every story she covers has a personal affect on her and I couldn't agree more. Every story I write, I am touched by. I'm always wanting to help those who are in trouble, I want to donate to every charity I write about so that they can continue their work, I want to adopt every animal who is in trouble at the local shelter. I am attached to making sure all humans are taken care of.
By the end of the book talk, Hoda had talked about the importance of saying thank you. I logged off her talk and pulled out a piece of notebook paper and my favorite pen and wrote her a personal letter to thank her. Before the talk, my day had been a crazy one where everything that could go wrong, did. After the talk, I decided to be grateful for a crazy day, because it reminded me to be happy when I have a good day. It's all about perspective.
Hoda: Thank you for being brave and sharing your story. It reminded me of exactly why I got into this field. We are sometimes so busy sharing other peoples stories that often times we forget to share our own. I can't wait to get my hands on your new book and find a small piece of positivity in my every day. The next time I come to the TODAY Show, I hope to get the opportunity to meet you.
Signing off,
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