Fall into Productivity
As We Return from Summer Hiatus
It’s been a while since you’ve heard from me and there’s a lot of exciting news to report!
Last Wednesday, the Black Public Relations Society-
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Digital Discipline: Writing & Media Relations 411
3-Part Communications Skills Boot Camp
Sept. 17, 24 & Oct. 1 @ Burson-Marsteller, NYC
To learn more about Digital Discipline: Writing & Media Relations 411, visit http://bprsny.org or contact any of the officers (list below). Classes will be held Sept. 17, 24 & Oct. 1, Burson-Marsteller,
Boot Camp participants members will receive e-tip sheets, media worksheets, personal consults and participate in real-time exercises to refine critical thinking and communications skills. Workshops will be led by the org’s executive leadership team who will explain how membership in BPRSNY and other professional industry associations can help advance your career.
Seminar topics (boot camp and future panels) include: Entertainment PR, Writing for the Web, Media Relations, EPKs (electronic press kits), Podcasts / Video, Talent and Artist Relations, Travel Publicity, Government Relations, Conference Management, Event Planning, Personal Branding & Reputation Management, SEO (search engine optimization), Maximizing Social Networks, Crisis and Emergency Communications, Investor Relations and Tax / Accounting Tips for Freelancers and Small Businesses.
This “been there, done that well expertise” is offered at a fraction of rates charged by other leading industry groups and driven by the BPRSNY mission—mentorship! The boot camp also includes presentations from (partial list) BPRSNY VP Diversity & Events Michael Millis, MX2 Media; Director of Membership Kimberlee Bradshaw, CPJ Communications; Co-President Gordon Balkcom, PR Practitioner; and Visual Historian Gerald Peart, photographer, who will share insight on special events, effective networking, corporate / investor / community relations and digital imaging.
Connect >> Communicate >> Collaborate
The Black Public Relations Society—
> Renee Foster - Co-President; renegadepr2000@yahoo.com
> Gordon Balkcom - Co-President; gbalk@aol.com
> Lynne Scott Jackson - VP Programs & Membership; millynneum@aol.com
> Mike Millis - VP Diversity & Special Events; michael_millis@msn.com
> Kimberlee Bradshaw - Director of Membership; kbradshaw@cpjcom.com
> Gerald Peart - Visual Historian; geefoto@aol.com
Job 1: Get the Job Done
The Race is Swift
Michael Phelps made history at the Beijing Summer Olympics and we’re now in the midst of the Democratic National Convention.
Now it’s time for Presidential Candidate Barack Obama to win the gold. He used his summer vacation to wisely focus on Job 1: Get the Job Done and select a political partner who won’t drop the baton—someone who doesn’t make false starts, completes assigned tasks, crosses the finish line and is immediately ready for the next race.
By selecting Joe Biden as his Vice Presidential running mate, he shored up perceptions about his leadership and management style. Here’s why Obama nailed the first major decision of his presumptive US Presidency. Biden has:
> Gray hair
* let’s get real, it’s generational … Gray Hair = Years on the Planet … that is with the exception of my man, Anderson Cooper
> Experience
*yes, we can ALL AGREE 35 years in the Senate counts and winning your first Senate election at age 29 is a huge deal
> Resiliance
* get the job done despite personal tragedy
> A narrative that resonates with blue-collar,
And, Biden gives good PR. He’s a great orator; is persuasive and ready to lead. Obama and Biden both have great people skills AND they understand the “code” of Congress:
> Work together
> Reach across the aisle
> Bridge generations
> Get the job done
It works in Congress and it works for the American people. If the election were held today, I believe this would be THE winning ticket!
Today’s Candidates
Message + Tech = Success
Is Obama the First Cybergenic President?
You Decide …
Everyone knows Barack Obama has raised millions via the internet. Check the website for the latest dollar tally—the bank account grows by the minute and I can’t even keep track.
This week, organizers were hawking $15 Obama-Biden car magnets. Click, donate, believe and you shall receive.
Guess what? Each dollar is green and each dollar counts big in the click and tumble world of 2008 Election Politics.
Online fundraising allows regular Americans—like you and I to painlessly be part of the process. To feel WE have a small stake in the political game. So we can say we donated to a winner. To show that our money, when pooled, is a valuable piece of the political machine.
And you can comfortably do this from the comfort of your home or office; all you need is a computer screen. While some might still actually volunteer to work in a campaign, organizing door to door, most Americans are mouse potatoes. It’s much easier to make your voice heard through a “click.”
It’s modern communication, activism and political involvement.
We all understand the “VP Choice” text message was released around 3 AM Aug. 24 while college students were out partying. Hundreds of thousands were lured in by this creative promotion, including yours truly and thousands of journalists.
What was achieved by this creativity? The Democratic VP candidates names were kept prominently in the news for about two weeks. Not bad for a free viral publicity gimmick—that worked.
And yes,
Just like Master Card’s “Priceless” ads that generate mindshare with the public, Obama strategist David Axelrod has created a “Brilliant” IT political strategy.
As quoted Mark Leibovich’s Aug. 3 New York Times article “Hail to the Twitterer,” John McCain has a bit to learn about email and other tech tools:
Further, the story went on to say …
“There’s a certain tempo to the thinking of someone who uses all kinds of new media,” said Mr. Saffo, who said he would anoint Mr. Obama, if elected, “the first cybergenic president,” just as John F. Kennedy was considered the first telegenic president.
The Power of “A” Words
Pride and Perseverance
As a proud African American woman witnessing the impending Presidential victory of Barack Obama, the past few months have been exciting and eye opening.
Most of all, I’m glad we’re learning to understand the power of the “A” words. Take your pick:
> Astute
> Accomplished
> Acceptable
> American
> Ageism
> Arrogant
> Articulate
> Aloof
“A-list” qualities are definitely conversation starters and can help your candidate get tons of media exposure.
Trying to insert ageism or chastise sitting US Senators because of the perception they are arrogant, articulate or aloof is simply a non-starter.
Frankly, the first three “A” words—astute, accomplished, acceptable—are traits that make Obama appealing to millions of middle Americans … traits that make
The last five A words could apply to Obama or Joe Biden, his Vice Presidential Running mate. Yes friends, it’s uber cool for a Black or Anglo man to have “A-List” qualities.
Let’s use a simple checklist to fact check a few red-blooded American traits held by Obama and Republican Presidential Candidate John McCain:
> Harvard degree? Yes.
> Service to country as POW? Yes.
> Patriot? Yes.
> Multicultural* heritage? Yes.
* Understand no American is “pure” … admit it … we’re a “motley mix” of cultures!
> Solid family life? Yes.
> Experience? Yes.
Please note that President of the
Yet, the buck stops with the President. That type of "heady experience" befalls the individual elected to the "hot seat," which is the chair behind the desk in the Oval Office.
If you’re a student of culture and language, as I am, then you realize the power of words and the audacity of argument. Words can serve as weapons or friends. We’re at the apex of the information age, with ideas and insults transmitted at the speed of light.
The trick is to have vision. To interpret the meaning and not get swept into the fray of propaganda to obtain viewers, sell magazines or get the most eyeballs to a website.
Analyze the issues. Think and vote with conviction of the proud American you are. Don’t pay attention to every single word of madness that swirls around you. Pay attention to the word in the middle of our “A-List” – American.
We can no longer straddle the fence. We’re at a crossroads. Let’s embrace a blended society and get over ourselves. If Americans used HALF the energy expended to beat each other up (on the campaign trail, on the job or at home) we could create a cross-functional, multicultural braintrust of helping the Obama or McCain team solve some real American problems.
That should be at the top of everybody’s list. Clicking to donate is still uber cool; but don’t forget to get off your butt and get involved!
I submit it’s acceptable for
Understand no one is the “Anointed One.” In
What folks don’t understand is that Obama, African Americans and other ethnic groups (in your neighborhood or on the job) are uniquely poised to run many races—and win. They're chameleons, champions who are always up for a good fight.
All Americans, in fact, have unique DNA that allows us to win big.
It’s that simple. "A" words should be at the top of any list. Remember that "A" denotes success, an outstanding grade.
American can no longer stand for “B” or “C” status. We need leaders and achievers of all races who are at the top of their game—people with experience and tenacity who play to win.
Advise … Advance … Achieve … Together
I got a personal glimpse of our “new
On behalf of the BPRSNY Board of Director’s, we’re smoothly diving into uncharted waters and forging creative alliances between leading African American and Asian American community and educational groups. Watch this blog and the BPRSNY website for exciting news about future collaborative programs.
In the words of Yanni, “We are One.”
DNC Strategist Jamal Simmons
Offers Grassroots Election Insight
Okay, you’ve heard all the hoopla surrounding the election and the need to become “one
We have an action plan thanks to CNN Analyst and Political Operative Jamal Simmons (President, New Future Communications). He offers “behind the scenes” insight on his fascinating career in governmental affairs and revealed what PR pros can do to get out the vote during this historic Presidential Election year!
Jamal is behind the scenes and in front of the camera in his role as a strategist and advisor to the Democratic National Committee; BPRSNY members and friends were privileged to get the inside scoop July 9 when he shared words of wisdom with PR pros here in Manhattan.
Jamal’s Tips include:
> Encourage people to vote early (before work)—particularly in precincts of color where heavy turnout is expected due to the surge in new voters;
> Be prepared to “wait it out” … there may be long lines;
> Check the weather … take an umbrella;
> Help seniors and others obtain absentee ballots if they can’t make it to the polls;
> Drive or accompany friends and relatives to the polls … take a day off (if possible);
> Understand the issues and candidates’ positions (see websites);
> Make your views known via posts on mainstream blogs like the Huffington Post, Daily Kos, and Talking Points Memo;
> Political journalists and producers track these blogs for hot topics … if you feel there’s an important election issue that should be covered—start blogging!
Powerful and Persuasive Friends
Everyone who knows me understands I’m big on trends.
Latest trend: Folks I know are serious power players. They’ve earned it and it feels good to know them
Back in my reporting days at the St. Petersburg (FL) Times, my good friend Laurie Hollman Brutch and I tried to interject trends into stories we covered about
[Side trend: St. Pete is now all the rave and a haven for artists. They’re positioning it as the next
For me, small town reporting was the BEST training a communications professional could receive. It stands me in good stead to this day. Writing is a core competency and something that has helped me achieve my goals over the years. As others taught me, I try to pass this skill on to others.
I was privileged to have great editors like Joe Childs, Bonnie Limbach and Paul Tash. Other colleagues are leading journalists such as Denver Post Editor Greg Moore (a mentor from my internship days at the Cleveland Plain Dealer), Washington Post Editors Vanessa Williams, Marcia Slacum, USA Today Editor Jackie Green, Philadelphia News Editor Karin Berry, New York Times columnist and MSNBC contributor John Harwood (check out his new book Pennsylvania Avenue: Profiles in Backroom Power) and Daily Press Sports Editor David Squires, who pines away in my hometown of Hampton VA. The Daily Press happens to a former employer of (the late) White House Press Secretary, Tony Snow.
To borrow a line from John McCain, the world, MY FRIENDS, is very small. I submit there are a mere three degrees of separation, instead of six.
Often, it’s hard to believe my reporting days were more than 25 years ago. We worked hard. We played hard. We learned from each other. We developed lasting friendships. We’re part of a generation who had access to our “dream jobs” and were afforded the opportunity to excel. We grabbed the brass ring with brash gusto and went for the gold. I chose the PR path; others like Judy Brennan went on to a successful career on the West Coast covering the business side of the entertainment industry, and then on to screenwriting.
For all of us, writing and a genuine “curiosity” about people is at the core of all we do.
Open Letter to Hillary Clinton Supporters
From Barack Obama Loyalist Lynne Scott Jackson
Dear Fellow Democrats:
I watched Hillary Clinton’s speech as she made a graceful stage left departure from the 2008 Presidential Campaign in June.
While my side smelled victory, as I put my ear to the community-at-large (ever the PR practitioner), I learned how passionate Hillary Clinton supporter are; they’re still smarting as the DNC convention’s second day draws to a close. I’ll be glued to the TV as she addresses an international audience this evening.
Hillary always gives “good talk.” I had the pleasure of hearing her speak in person when she was First Lady, during a meeting of the American Booksellers Convention as she promoted her book It Takes a Village.
Consider Democrats we must act “as a village” and forge strong alliances in order to win the gold. Let’s learn from the Olympic athletes. Details count. We have to get over ourselves, pass the baton, stay in our lane and FINISH the race.
We simply can’t afford a DNF.*
*Did Not Finish, the score Olympic track & field athletes receive when they drop the baton and cannot finish the race
Before the Democratic primary ended, I received about a dozen Hillary Clinton emails. I’m a registered Democrat, college instructor,
Full disclosure: I’ve gotten more emails from John McCain than I received from Hillary Clinton (makes you want to say huh?). I’m on everyone’s list and as an advertising/public relations professional, sign up for many promos to analyze and critique how candidates and companies handle everything from issues to new product intros.
I trust everyone reading this blog to make an informed choice for President in the fall. Examine the issues. Don’t blindly accept Hillary’s endorsement of Barack.
Barack Obama knows he has to earn your vote. Just because he earned mine long ago doesn’t mean he won’t work to earn yours.
And, with my politico friends, I’m the first to say when there’s a BOM – “Barack Obama Misstep.” Like 10 days ago during the Rick Warren faith based interview. McCain was on point, offering short easy-to-understand answers. News and opinions folks could use—not info that was over everyone’s heads.
But, true to form, Barack’s team (and he’s working with the best in the business, in my view) “went to the videotape”, analyzed their missteps, and are (undoubtedly) coaching their candidate to finish first by tweaking messages to bite size “Twitter” text blurbs (140 characters or less).
Keep an open mind. Analyze what’s going right. Discuss what you don’t like.
Examine the issues and then vote with conviction. Because I believe in the power of politics and effective persuasive techniques, I trust you’ll make the right decision on Nov. 4.
This historically unique election season provides an opportunity for multicultural educators and marketers like me, to dig deep and use what we know, passing along valuable insight to the next generation.
Our opinions matter and they can certainly affect change.
Pat Tobin
Founder, National Black Public Relations Society
A “Dash” of Brilliance
Marketing communications professionals gathered June 27 in
Pat expired June 10 after a valiant battle with cancer; she was 65.
A timeless spirit and tireless in her contributions, she seemed much younger than her chronological age. Pat was one of those souls who connected with everyone. We often shared professional stories and a passion for our young men (her grandson, Aaron Curry and my son, Clinton Jackson), trading photos and stories about ice hockey and baseball practices.
Known for her work on the
In the world of PR it pays to know who has influence … who can make the connections … who has a pulse on the community.
The consulting world has always included a veil of mystique. By carefully examining the life of Pat Tobin, people are in a better position to understand the driving force of professional excellence.
Pat will be missed, but the brilliance of her smile and contributions lives on in all who knew her. Memorial donations may be made to the Pat Tobin Scholarship Fund or Pat Tobin Memorial Fund,
Fiscal & Physical Fitness
Question: Is your fiscal house in order? Why not use September and the onset of fall as a motivational touchpoint to plan 3Q (3rd quarter) finances and budget projections for ’09 (it’s never too soon to plan ahead). As the summer winds down, I try to cross check finances, chart career/personal/business development, delve into new advocacy projects and devise ways to reach “the next phase.”
Here’s one thing I’ve learned in nearly a half-century on the planet. We all grow in unique ways. I find my attention wanes for those who don’t share the same trajectory. Wisdom comes in knowing that’s okay. Everyone won’t share your same goals. The trick is to keep moving forward. For me, these days it’s more fun to set a new course instead of following others.
That said, check out “Fighting the War Against Distraction,” a fantastic article in the July 1 edition of the New York Times.
Four Years: A Degree of Separation
I’ll soon begin my fourth year as a communications instructor. I’ve had the honor of delivering educational messages to nearly 500 individuals at leading institutions and writing workshops, including The City College of New York, New York University, Black Public Relations Society, International Special Events Society and lifelong mentees I’ve met throughout the years.
Students and working professionals alike must aspire to be on point 100 percent of the time. While you won’t always hit the mark, work smart and “try harder,” like the Avis car rental tagline suggests. Shore up weak areas; ask for the strength of others’ expertise. The danger is not to know your weak points … or worse yet, to ignore them. Respect and appreciate constructive criticism. If people take the time to point out possible flaws, it means they care about your career growth. Seek out the advice of others as you continue to grow.
Tip of the Week: Focus on your strengths
If you like to write early in the day, then get up, write and respond to those wonderful thoughts that need to be digitized. Tap into your creative energy; it’s easier than you think. Use this momentum as you build your day. Undoubtedly, you’ll get more done.
Be an Over Achiever
At a Corporate Women’s Network meeting, Evelyn Cunningham (esteemed African American journalist, now 91) once she was “Honored to be in the presence of so many over achievers.” A grand dame de force, she has been regularly featured in the New York Times by society/fashion photographer Bill Cunningham (no relation).
Evelyn and her generation set the standard for grace, elegance, creative energy and talent among women (and men) of all races.
She’s the type of woman whose 20 years older than you and still has a sense of style and fashion sense (plus leather pants) that stop you dead in your tracks.
Whatever your age or gender, aim to be an "Evelyn Cunningham" and over achieve!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
MOTIVATION
Often, we need a nudge to get started with a writing project, publicity campaign, employment search or major life change. Once you start, forward motion leads to momentum, which breeds maximum results! Use these “motivation milestones” to track your progress:
M ake the most of each day and earn success—one step at a time.
O pportunities lead to reward. Discipline yourself to seize the moment!
T ackle challenges; don’t procrastinate.
I nitiate conversations, contacts and substantive liaisons.
V alue time, resources, talents (yours and others).
A ctualize dreams. Pray. Push. Persevere.
T ake action NOW.
I nvigorate your life! Learn ... risk ... renew.
O ffer to assist and elevate your lifetime circle of support.
N ever let laziness or a lackadaisical attitude win.
© 2008 Lynne Scott Jackson
Saturday, May 24, 2008
MEMORIAL DAY REFLECTIONS
What's your UST?
Determine your UST quotient by answering these questions from the “United States Test”, Millynneum Insight’s txt for the formal
Recently,
Include substantive discussions during your Memorial Day backyard barbecue chats. Follow-up discussion with “do.” Volunteer … tutor … take time to make your community a better place—it can’t happen without you!
Countless people are still dying for yes, our land of opportunity. In their honor, it’s the least we all can do.
Register voters. Be vigilant and vocal in your fight on important issues, in your own backyard. Get involved as a community leader; run for city council. Understand that via the internet, YOU now have worldwide reach! Support your candidate of choice; lend your support by clicking a donation to
Encourage people to see your point of view. Massage each message. Persuade and persevere.
Broadcast by example how great it is to live in
The great majority of us were born here and tend to take our freedom for granted. As a colleague, Gordon Balkcom reminded me this morning, “freedom is not free.” His sister Sharon, a true patriot, sacrificed her life during the
First, upgrade your UST quotient and refresh your knowledge of American history. Then, enhance that wisdom with your own cultural insight, reflections and unique perspectives. Finally, spread the wealth and value of “Made in the
UST -
*answers below
1. Who’s in charge of the executive branch?
2. Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
3. Name one of the two longest rivers in the
4. How many justices are on the Supreme Court?
5. What is the name of the current Speaker of the US House of Representatives?
6. Name the
7. Why does the flag have 13 stripes?
8. Name one
9. What did Susan B. Anthony do?
10. Who was President during World War I?
* Answers: 1. The President; 2. Thomas Jefferson; 3. Mississippi, Missouri Rivers; 4. Nine; 5. Nancy Pelosi; 6. The Civil War; 7. Represents original 13 colonies; 8. Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, North Mariana Islands; 9. Fought for Women’s Rights, Civil Rights; 10. Woodrow Wilson.
OBAMA MANTRA AND THE CIRCLE OF O
(Hip-Hop, Jazz, Salsa, Country and Classical Versions Soon Available!)
The Nov. 4 Presidential Election represents a historic challenge for us to put the first person of color in the White House. The task is daunting and we have less than six months to achieve our goal.
Black, brown, red, white and blue.
We who represent
Will mobilize to elect—
Our nation’s first African American president!
Say it. Sing it. Believe it!
Yes friends, it WILL happen. But each and every American of voting age must do their part. To effect change, you must:
> Understand the issues.
> Donate time and money.
> Start a political discussion group or action committee.
> Share perspectives; make your friends and associates smart!
> Be proactive; every connection among your social network counts.
> Encourage others to “work the web” to their political advantage.
> Eliminate doubt.
> Replace angst with action.
> You are what you think.
* That said, watch your language and thoughts:
Example: Say/think “Change WILL occur.” Not “Change could occur.” Then, back up your statements with facts.
> Understand what we’re up against.
> Respect the process.
> Analyze competitors; act accordingly.
> Fight for your rights—for healthcare, equal wages, decent housing.
Understand we don’t have a minute to waste. While I don’t underestimate the task at hand, I’m already planning an election night party.
Why? Because I REFUSE to not give this task 250% effort. And, I refuse to wake up Nov. 5 with a “Woulda, coulda, shoulda” attitude.
It is possible. It will happen.
Black, brown, red, white and blue.
We who represent
Will mobilize to elect—
Our nation’s first African American president!
Slackers, get out of my way! I’m ready to mobilize and energize EVERYONE in my circle to make a difference.
Join the “Circle of O” and make a difference. O stands for Barack Obama, a new world Order, Organization,
Get to work. We need your special brand of talent and everyone in your circle to win this election!
http://www.barackobama.com
http://www.johnmccain.com
Saturday, May 17, 2008
THE SECRET’S OUT:
BLACK COLLEGES OFFER HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION FOR ALL
Check out this fascinating story about Joshua Packwood, a young Anglo male who worked hard to earn the distinguished honor of 2008 Valedictorian at
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/05/16/white.valedictorian/index.html#cnnSTCText
This was of particular interest because a family friend, Tor Derricotte, son of Nadine and Kevin, just returned from a Morehouse campus tour. Tor’s a brilliant young man, among the top in his high school class who recently completed a German student exchange program. He’ll soon make his choice between Morehouse, Rider and
The point is: both Tor and Joshua have choices. For other generations, the decision of where to go to college was “decided” by the status quo.
A few weeks back, during the Race and New Media Panel at City Tech, I had a great discussion with a fellow teacher. I told her I went to Howard; she said her younger cousin was at Howard's
The secret’s out, blasted via CNN and personal exchanges. Black colleges, namely Morehouse, Howard and Hampton (among countless others) provide a high-quality education—for all. Everyone is beginning to understand the rich context and extreme VALUE of the Black college experience.
Understand life is serious. You can achieve or obtain anything you want, but realize that the rules have changed. Guess what? All generations must realize that future classmates and alums at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) will white or from other countries.
This is what Martin Luther King and our parents generation worked for, opportunity and equal access. With that comes progress.
Friends, we know the intellectual rigor of HBCU’s, but everyone else doesn't. So, I provided a brief a history lesson for my new teacher friend, about biology classes in "The Valley;" where all the science buildings are located behind at Howard, behind Founders Library. I described a statue honoring Biologist Ernest Everett Just, a tribute to one of the founders of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
Then, I shared how Biology 101 was used "back in my day" to weed out people who wanted to study nursing, pharmacy or medicine. I still remember folks in my dorm (Meridian Hill Hall), literally crying after a test. You would have thought someone had died. Almost, since their future careers were on life support and needed fast resuscitation if they were to survive! The Biology 101 book weighed about 30 pounds. The professors did not play.
So you want to be a doctor? Pass Biology 101.
Many who first thought they wanted to be a doctor or nurse had to buckle down. Some wiped away their tears and changed their major. Serious business.
[Full disclosure: LSJ did not take Biology 101. While I got decent grades in high school science and considered the course as an elective, my academic advisors rightfully encouraged me not to take it, since it was constructed to reveal only the most astute scientific minds.]
I also told my colleague how many engineering students literally had their names engraved on certain chairs in the library late at night. Yes, friends, I saw them because I was there studying too. Even Howard communications majors have to be serious. The School of Business and virtually every other specialization has a RICH history of success, educating talented young professionals of all races. Many hail from throughout the globe.
And yes, some are white.
So, guess what? Students of all colors must have higher SAT or ACT scores—no
matter what your field of interest. Video game playing and texting must give way to writing skills, studying and advanced placement college-prep courses and high school internships.
If not, you’ll be left behind, by people who look like you AND those who don’t.
We all have a wonderful opportunity to better share our stories, so that young and old can have a greater understanding. The presumptive Democratic Presidential Candidate Barack Obama has opened people’s ears to the possibility of change.
But you have to listen in order to accurately hear the story.
We've got to be big enough to raise the bar on our own level of achievement and that of our children—of all colors. Understand the level and depth of the commitment is often very arduous, but well worth the effort.
To this day, I often sacrifice "fun" or family time to keep honored commitments. It's so important to contribute in a substantive way. If not, why bother? I feel that commitment and passion is a testament to my family, a community of support that goes back more than a hundred years. The sacrifice of many allows me to sit here and edit this blog entry.
Keep your perspective and understand your unique place on the planet. Understand your power. Persevere and most importantly, don’t waste time, because there is simply no limit to what you can achieve or who you can influence.
Know that others are gaining on you and many live half a world away.
I try to communicate this to my students, who fortunately