The Observation Deck

Today I had the fortune of spending time with one of the many crown jewels in our citizenry that I have discovered in the past couple of years: Sharon Kinsella. Over coffee and some sweet rolls we discussed everything from politics to architecture to economic planning…you know, Girl Talk!

Anyway, Sharon told me that rather than making long winded New Year’s Resolutions that she and her friends have widdled it down to just one word. Sharon crafted this beautifully written response to this one word description which I hope she shares.

So my question to all the LO’s out there—if you had a one work mantra for yourself next year what would it be?

I am settling on : Service

Better



.

Here you go Ruthie because you asked so sweetely. I'm glad you're also going to do this. I think it's going to be really helpful in the New Year.

When I first became involved in the Women's Movement, I was astounded by how much the women around me knew.

They knew how to relate their message clearly and concisely. They knew how to mobilize people and map out the process to reach our goals. They knew how to energize, motivate and get things done.

I felt overwhelmed, insecure and that old "I'm not worthy" mantra kept running through my brain.

Of course while I was doing all this I was raising my son on my own, trying to pay the rent. dealing with addiction and attempting to grow up. What worked for me was the people I met along the way. Some of the closest friendships I've ever had came out of the movement. I was surrounded by people who were brilliant and loved me.

I grew, I flourished and I learned. Social justice created a framework for my life that truly shaped the person I became and am.

Illness, motherhood, survival have waylaid me at times, but I've always found my way back to service. Service and motherhood are the two most important aspects of who I am.

I picked up a lot over the years from some of the best movement people in the country. Projects that I have created and participitated in have flourished and succeeded.

Now is the time for me to pass the baton. So my word is Teach. In the last couple of years I've reactivated and started making connections and friendships with many of the new leadership people coming up through the various ranks and while I actively participate in all the projects and events, I'm able to share much of what I've learned. Not all of the things I'm involved in are strictly "women's movement" but they are social justice on a number of levels.

They'll take what I give them and change it and mold it to who they are and what their goals are, but I can give them a base for organizational development which they'll take to their next level of service.

That's my word and along with everything that entails, that is my goal, to Teach.

This year has been a very tough year for me. I have dealt with a lot of things and I have faced many trials that I've been avoiding for years. I've come to the point where I now accept me and have made peace, but I have more work to do. So even though my first thought is don't be selfish, I know that I need to be as healthy as I can, so progress.

That makes so much sense and allows you to spread your wings Dannielle.

borborygmus

Stephen Eisel wrote:borborygmus

Yes.

That is a very well chosen self-descriptive.

Stephen Eisel wrote:borborygmus

Borborygmus – stomach growling....does that mean you’re going on a diet come Jan 2?

Wow! This is really fabulous! Sharon, thanks so much for sharing your inspiring story - you too Danielle.

One word is very difficult for me (as many people close to me know! )

But if I have to . . . my word is 'inspiration'

my word is ..........

creativity......

nurturing it.....
finding it more in myself.....
encouraging it in others......
enjoying it.....
teaching it.......
having fun with it.......
profiting by it.......
not profiting by it.....
seeing it in others.....
seeing it in myself.......

This is getting really good people. YAY!!

I think my inspirational word for now would be:

"Sharon"

Faith

Mark Crnolatas

Charlie Page wrote:

Stephen Eisel wrote:borborygmus

Borborygmus – stomach growling....does that mean you’re going on a diet come Jan 2?

yeppers!!! I am going to try the zone diet...

dl meckes wrote:

Stephen Eisel wrote:borborygmus

Yes.

That is a very well chosen self-descriptive.

the claws out