THANKS MONICA!!!

       Today a legend gave me a refresher course in "How to do journalism the right way"
Monica Kaufman Pearson was the keynote speaker at the 65 Annual Southern Regional Press Institute at Savannah State University.

The is the first lady of TV Journalism in the Southeast and arguably the country.  Reporter, anchor woman, college professor, author, the woman has done it all and done it well.

She came to SRPI to share her more than 30 years of wisdom and experience with college students on the cusp of a journalism career. 

Today I was her student, as she spoke to them, I am the one who got schooled.
She reminded me about the essentials.  She reminded me of what a good journalist looks and sounds like.
She remained me that you can't do the job without the tools of integrity, hard work, common sense and a devotion to the community you cover.
She remained me that passion is important She reminded me that one should never stop learning, growing, reaching.
She reminded me that being gracious and knowing when to keep your mouth shut is sometimes the difference between success and failure.

She reminded me that I can't wait until conditions are perfect to get busy doing what I want to do.

She remained me that now is the time to  make it work, to work your plan and plan your work.

She reminded me that it's never too late, and always treat people like I want them to treat me, even when they don't deserve it.

She reminded me why I got into journalism in the first place. and she inspired me to share what I have instead of looking to feather my nest.
Thank you Monica, for waking me out of my stupor of complacency and preoccupation with my bottom line.
Thanks for reigniting the flame in me.
Thanks for the reminder!!!