If WJMC has taught me anything, it has taught me that I can be a journalist. Of course journalism is changing, but in order to grow one must accept change. The numerous speakers have definitely inspired me to pursue my dreams. They spoke against the idea that journalism is a dying profession and this encouraged me tremendously. Hoda Kotb was by far my favorite. Her story is amazing. Her personality is amazing. Heck, SHE is amazing. Success was not handed to Hoda and this is why I am so inspired by her. She is living proof that hard work and determination can get you anywhere. This lady was denied TWENTY-SEVEN jobs! WHAAAA?? Hoda Kotb? THEEEEE Hoda Kotb? That beautiful Egyptian lady? Yes, her. Anything is possible. During her key-note speech she stated, “Bloom where you are planted.”  In other words, even if you aren’t exactly where you would like to be you must work hard while you are there. Push forward, push forward, and push forward. Yes, these two words were the only things that came to mind during her speech. Many may say that speakers are SUPPOSED to be inspirational, that is their job . . . right? I totally disagree. It is something about Hoda. She is… genuine. REAL. As soon as she walks in the room BAM you know she’s there. I mean not many speakers put their iPods into the microphone and sing “Black and Yellow” by Wiz Khalifia.  “Be in the now,” Hoda constantly repeated. What exaaactly does that mean? It means be 100%; do not let your troubles of yesterday or tomorrow ruin your today. Wow! I definitely felt she was speaking directly to Resita Cox when she said this. Hoda?? Hmm, do you know me personally or something? I tend to do that a lot. I am at a constant race with life, yet there is no finish line. Basically if it’s not one thing, it’s definitely another. That’s life. That’s just MY life and unfortunately I have to deal with it. However, I never considered that I may deal with issues at the wrong times. I know now I must change this. How can you score a 98 on the test tomorrow if you are worrying about the 65 you scored on the test you took yesterday? Simple. You can’t. As Hoda said, “Be in the now.” You can’t be in the there, while trying to be in the HERE. Mission Impossible. Resita? Focus on your future, not your present. Thanks Hoda. You are my inspiration. You remind me that regardless of the situation, you must always push forward.

“When you fall, and you will, make sure you fall on your back because when you are on your back you can look up. And if you can look up, you can get UP.”

 

Dear Hoda, You make me want to be a better me.  Sincerely, A person looking UP.