SHE’S MY INSPIRATION
By Amanda Vega
Winner
2019 Women’s History Month Essay Award
Women of the past have contributed to inspiring and uplifting women of today. Women of today will inspire and uplift women of the future. Women whom we encounter on an everyday basis have an impact on our daily lives whether subconsciously or consciously. Whether it was positive or negative feedback, a compliment or a meaningful relationship each has its own contribution. That is what I have learned throughout my life. I have learned from every woman I have encountered or learned about. From my Mother to Maya Angelou, to my current social psychology teacher Dr. Kathleen Barker, each have impacted me on a personal level.
My mother has always seen the best in me, even when it’s hard for me to see it for myself. She encompasses the ability to see your best qualities which allows you to delve deeper and expand on them. She is the most positive person in my life who has the most significant impact. During a rough time where I was looking to form my own mentoring program she reminded me of my purpose and poured positivity into me. To the point where I created my own program in Columbia University Secondary school and was able to mentor girls. If it wasn’t for her belief in me and her reminders of how exceptional I am I would have never prospered.
Maya Angelou has always been one of my favorite writers. The way she was able to capture her audience and captivate them with her words where so inspiring. She was the main inspiration for me to pursue writing on a greater scale. Her story alone drove me to not only dedicate my life to becoming a better writer but to dedicate my life to girls everywhere and let our story be heard. Reading her writing reminded me that we all have something to share with each other. It reminded me that we all go through adversities and hardships throughout life, but we are all connected with each other through such experiences. It is very vital to use our voice and stand up for each other.
If it wasn’t for Dr Kathleen Barker’s positive feedback she gave me regarding an assignment in which she complimented my writing. I would have not made this submission today. That feedback quickly reminded me that I was able to connect myself and my writing to others. She encouraged me to keep improving and in retrospect allowed me to realize that I needed to share my writing on a greater scale.
Human connection is the most powerful form of connection. It is the very essence of what drives and impacts our social development within society. Therefore, it is very pivotal to establish such meaningful relationships throughout our life. When accomplished, us as human beings share positive interactions which help to improve our overall well-being. We all inspire each other to some extent.