The End

It's time to say "sayonara" to my blog, and to be completely honest, I will not miss posting one bit! As happy as I may seem, I still do have a great appreciation for those that can actively maintain a legitimate blog site. I regret to say I did not find (or make) the time to truly devote myself to this project and I envy those that have the passion to post online frequently and make the most of their sites. Blogging is something that I have never really had a passion to do, or the time to commit to but I am grateful that this project gave me such an experience - I will surely benefit from this in my future career! 

This blog assignment has prepared me for a professional career in the way that it has forced me to closely monitor my online presence. Online postings, such as the ones provided in this blog have the potential to be found by future employers and coworkers. Just as a journal provides somewhat of a "secret outlet" for someone to write their thoughts and emotions in, they still are a tangible document that can be found and read by someone else. Although it may seem as if no one is keeping tabs on your blog, anything written or posted on the internet is ultimately public property. I remember my mom telling me when I was a kid, "If you want something to remain a secret, don't write it down." The same holds true for blogs, facebook or e-mail. the internet is a powerful tool and it has the power to make or break my career. 

I think more and more, PR Companies are beginning to utilize online communication because they offer a cheap and effective relations strategy. Whether people are working as a part of a large firm or a small nonprofit organization, blogs provide a way for the company to communicate with its constituents. Blogs also offer an attractive way for the younger generation to become involved (because it is new media!). They are available 24/7 and can be updated any time for up-to-the minute news. 

Looking back on my chosen topic or "theme" for this blog, I wish I would have chosen a broader topic, either that... or I wish I would have followed more closely with my theme, "Becoming a Woman of Influence." It was my intention to follow the book Becoming a Woman of Influence, given to me by Sarah Duvall, and use the chapters as a means for posting each week. However, (and I regret to inform you Sarah) somewhere between traveling home from Washington D.C. and moving to college, I lost the book and still have yet to find it! I attempted once during the semester to purchase a used copy, unfortunately the copy was too worn to be shipped and never reached my apartment. Two-thirds of the way through the semester I ceased all attempts to find the book and kept posting blogs that loosely related to the theme. In the future, I will devote myself more heartily to the theme and try NOT to lose the reading that serves as the basis for the entire project. 

Elections

It's official - the our sorority's Executive Council was voted into office tonight. I am now the first Vice President, or the President of the Programming Council. This means I will be leading the other committee in my sorority and serving as a liaison between them and EC. I have to admit, I am REALLY excited... but it's made me think a lot about the influence I wish to have on the girls in my chapter. 

You see... I can be a woman of influence, but with that influence comes wisdom and responsibility. This may sound cocky or arrogant, but it's not meant to be. Every leader holds some sort of respect or power that must be used wisely - and if that influence is not used correctly... the whole chapter will eventually will be affected. As the first Vice President of the my chapter, I will hold a large amount of power that has been entrusted to me by my sisters. I hope that my position will allow me to serve the chapter in a positive way, and that I will not overstep my boundaries as a leader. 

"A great leader's courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position."  

-John Maxwell

I like this quote because it turns the focus away from the office I am about to hold, and it focuses the vision on my passion instead. Titles aren't important, it's the motivation to lead that drives the leader (to good, hopefully!) In order to keep my motivation and passion "good" I must make my mission bigger than myself and enlist the help of those greater than I. 

Build Me Up

This past week I have realized more than ever how much I appreciate my roommates and friends.... and most importantly, I have come to understand how blessed I am to know them all. 

Yesterday, on the way to class I became VERY sick and had to miss class. My family is far away in Kansas City, but my roommates took care of me when no one else could! They picked up my homework, got me medicine, ran errands for me, brought me dinner and made sure I was taking care of myself (even when I thought I was better!). AND, they even dealt with my bossy attitude when I started to feel worse! But, that's not the only time they've helped me. My roommates LIVE with me - they know me (the good and.... not so good parts!) and they continue to lift me up when I need it. 

Throughout the semester we have all taken our turn helping and being helped. Friends need that, I need that. My friends and I lift each other up when we're not strong. 

I don't have a ton of friends, but those I have are more precious than anything :) 

"True friendship consists not in the multitude of friends, but in their worth and value." 

-Ben Jonson

Bigger Than Myself

This semester I started going to the contemporary service at the Second Baptist church in Springfield. It's held at 11:00 on Sunday mornings (which is excellent since I love to sleep in!) and it's called "Second Eleven." The past few weeks have highlighted a sermon series called "Bigger Than Myself" and I'd like to elaborate a little bit on it... 

During the first Sunday of the series the pastor asked us to evaluate whether or not we were living for a "big mission," "a mini mission" or "no mission at all." I decided that I was living for a mini mission, because I don't think I can change the world - but I do believe I can change a small amount of peoples' lives. 

It turns out that a "mini mission" is not what I thought! Those who live a mini mission are the hero's of their own story. They are the ones in control and decide their fate. Those who live a big or "grand" mission are in a story in which there is another hero and they are living to make that hero well known. 

My whole purpose of this blog was to be about "being a woman of influence." However, in the last few blogs.... it's been all about ME. Although I didn't fully know what a "mini mission" was, I think I am living one. 

I can't be a woman of influence when the focus is about myself and how I CAN make a difference in these girls' lives. The greater hero is GOD, and I should be living for his story... the influence will come later. 

That's why I looked up to Sarah Duvall, Megan Blosser and Jacquelyn Ratliff. Because they weren't living to make a difference in my life; they were living for something greater than themselves... and I'm lucky I got to be a part of it. 

Speaking of Elections...

ZTA is holding elections within the next few week for the 2009 Executive Council. I have really struggled over the decision to run for an office. I think I would like to run for a big position such as President of VP I. I've already served as VP III, or Recruitment Chair, last year and I want to continue my leadership in ZTA somehow. 

But... I'm scared of the responsibility it will entail. 

and... I am scared of the time commitment and the effort it will require of me. 

Maybe I'm especially exhausted right now, but I am not looking forward to the amount of work a new position will be. Next semester, I plan on taking 16 hours in addition to working in the Admission Office and for The Mirror as the Advertising Sales Manager. Somehow I've made it work this past semester on top of having a boyfriend AND  life (sort of!). But, whatever position I take will add a bigger commitment than the position I currently hold.

So, why am I running? It's always a struggle to define this for myself. Am I running because other people have suggested it? Am I running because I think it's best for the chapter? Am I running because no one else will do it? Am I running for selfish reasons? I don't know! Maybe it's a little bit of everything. However, I do know that despite all the time and effort it will require, I want to run because ultimately, it is my personal decision. I know being a leader is about taking what others want into consideration too...

Two years ago, one of my friends was struggling with whether or not to run. Although everyone asked her to, she decided not to run. She didn't base her decisions off of others opinions, but rather decided what was best for herself. Am I doing what's best for myself? She felt as if she could best serve the chapter as someone who wasn't in an executive office. However, I think I can be more effective IN an office. Although it's going to be a lot work, I can't wait for the GOOD stuff. I can't wait to help lead a group of outstanding Zetas and help them grow as leaders. 

I don't know how I'm going to do it... but I think I'm ready. 

It's that time of week again...

Guess what? Last week in ZTA we figured out who our little sis's were! Every year older members are paired with new members as "big sisters" and "little sisters." Essentially, this relationship is designed to integrate younger members into the chapter as well as establish bonds between the older and younger classes. It's one of the biggest commitments older members agree to throughout the year because they must be willing to provide a generous amount of time and effort to foster a meaningful relationship. A bad relationship has the potential to ruin a younger members perception of the chapter - so it is essential that all "big sis" and "lil sis" relationships are nurtured and ardently cared for (kind of sounds like gardening, right?).

Although I already have a "lil sis" from last year, I received the unique opportunity to take another one this year. My (older) "lil sis" is Alexandra, she is a Pre Med major at Drury and my new "lil sis" is Jessica, also a Pre Med major. Both are outstanding young women who will grow to be excellent leaders in the chapter :). 

Not only am I interested in building a relationship with her, but I am also excited to get to know her entire new member class. Already, I have befriended several girls - and I love them all! The more I learn about them, the more I am impressed with their strength and dedication. They are already taking active roles by volunteering for leadership positions and by participating in every event - in a way, they are influencing me and causing me to think twice about my behavior as a chapter member. 

It's easy to get burnt out once you reach junior/senior year - the girls you once looked up to have left the chapter and often you are too busy to attend events outside of meeting. It's easy to remain in the background and fall back on excuses... but as must as I want to do this, I can't. The truth is (despite all the busy-ness and occasional drama) I am proud to remain an active member. After all, who will be the role models for the younger girls? Even though several of mine have graduated, that doesn't mean there isn't opportunity for more to take leadership! I love every sister and love the sisterhood we share. 

Sisterhood is something that cannot be explained. The bonds I have and will create with these women will last me a lifetime (cheesy!). Two weeks ago, the church I attend finished a sermon series titled "life is meant to be shared." The core message was:

"We are to embrace community with others. God never intended for us to live life alone. If we don't have others in our lives, it's actually impossible to live out many commandments from Scripture." 

We may not base all of our sisterhood on scripture or the commandments, but we need each other just as the Christian community needs its members. We need each other to get through life - and that starts with individual relationships - such as one with

 my "lil sis." 

"Help[ing] one another, is part of the the religion of sisterhood" 

-Louisa May 

Alcott

my family :) 

Rumors and Such

Yesterday I found out what "juicycampus.com" was. Out of curiosity, I caved and decided to check it out... and was unpleasantly surprised. "Juicycampus.com" is a gossip site for any college campus - it's designed to create controversy and spread rumors. Anyone can post at any time, without the fear of having their identity revealed. If you've seen the movie Mean Girls, this site might be slightly reminiscent of the "Burn Book" (in which a few girls write down rumors about everyone at their high school in a journal). Besides the usual bashing of sorority/fraternity guys and girls, the site also serves to ridicule anyone else who is particularly disliked within the college campus. Apparently the site has become increasingly popular, as the number of views and posts have increased in the past week. One of my friends has become so concerned about other's perception of him, that he checks the site every day to make sure he is not the topic of discussion. 

I am in shock! I can't believe there is a site (specifically for Drury's campus) that calls individuals out by name and encourages others to judge them anonymously. I've heard our college called "Drury High" before, but this is more like "Drury Middle School" behavior.

This discovery leads me to discuss how it relates to my blog. I find it disheartening that my friend feels the need to check the website daily to make sure his name is free from any negative associations. Although I would be worried if my name were the topic of some ridiculous rumor, I cannot justify his behavior. What does that say about your character, if you allow a silly website to dominate your life and perception of yourself? To me, it reveals that you don't have enough self-confidence. People like my friend are people in need of a boost (a really big confidence boost!). I want them to see themselves as good enough - without having to rely on others to tell them through an anonymous website. As part of my initiative to become a woman of influence, this week I am going to try my best to bring out the good in everyone and encourage others to do the same. 

Part of becoming a role model involves building people up, not tearing people down. If I ever hope to influence girls...

I have to stop talking about people in a negative way. 

Although I don't participate in gossip often, I have recently found myself contributing to rumors/negative conversation. I am just as guilty as those who posted online. No matter if it is said out loud, or posted on "juicycampus.com," gossip is gossip. Words are permanent and can be misconstrued. This website has shown me how harsh students can be, and how our campus is in need of strong leaders to put a stop to rumors and discourage the creation of them. 

"A good leader inspires people to have confidence in the leader, a great leader inspires people to have confidence in themselves." 

"Do or do not, there is no try." -Yoda

So. I've decided to do something... and it's called vegetarianism. 

I'm not just joking around though - I've taken the 30 day "Veg-Plege" from goveg.com and I've got the e-mail confirmation to prove it: 

Congratulations!

You have just taken the first step toward a healthier and more compassionate life. Going vegetarian has never been easier, and and we're here to help. For some delicious recipes to get you started, as well as a list of fantastic vegetarian products, popular veggie cookbooks, and much more, check out http://www.vegcooking.com.

A vegetarian diet is truly a life-saver.  Every veget

arian saves more than 100 animals each year, and vegetarians are less likely to suffer from  heart disease, obesity, and several types of cancer, according to the American Dietetic Association. Plus vegetarian foods are delicious!

The following are our "Top Five Tips for Making the Switch":

1. Make vegetarian version of your favorite meals.

2. Explore delicious vegetarian recipes. 

3. Try tasty faux meats and dairy alternatives. 

4. Sample microwaveable meals and convenience foods. 

5. Find vegetarian-friendly restaurants in your area. 

Thank you again for taking the 30-Day Veg Pledge. Please visit us again at http://wwwgoveg.com to check out our new contests, celebrity features, and delicious recipes. 

Best of luck!

Sincerely, 

Jenny Lou Browning

Vegan Special Projects Coordinator 

So, here's the deal. I'm not 100% sold - I love dairy products and fish, so I am working on eliminating those later. For now, I am set on cutting all chicken, pork, turkey and beef out of my diet. Why this sudden change, you ask? 

After listening to Gene Baur present at convocation 2 weeks ago, I was inspired to change my eating habits. However, this wasn't the first time I thought abo

ut removing meat from my diet. This summer, I had the privilege of hearing Coleman McCarthy speak at a Presidential Lecture Series for The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars. McCarthy is widely recognized for his accomplishments as a "journalist turned peace activist," as well as his practice as an ethical vegetarian. His speech motivated me to try vegetarianism, and I lasted... for a week. Now, I am determined to last for at least a month - but I am going to to my best to continue my vegetable eating forever!

Tonight I made an excellent recipe for veggie pizza - I highly recommend it. In fact >> here's a picture of the final product:

How in the world does this relate to becoming a woman of influence? Good question! Here's how I see it: I am taking a stand. I am tired of complaining about excessive carbon emission and the unethical practice of the meat industry. I can't sit complaining, hoping that someone else will make a change...

I want to be that change. 

There comes a point in time when you have to stop talking and start walking the walk. Like Dr. Waters said today in class... you can't make exceptions or allowances for yourself. you have to go 100% all in. So I'm taking the plunge. I've made it through a week already (enduring constant criticism from my meat-loving boyfriend all the while) but I've got a long way to go. 

For those I hope to influence (the young ladies), how can I expect them to make a change, when I am not willing to do it myself? I want to be an example for others in order to prove that when you put your mind to something, you can achieve anything. 

I want to show others that it's important to take a stand on issues they feel strongly about. If they don't agree with something, I want to encourage them not to simply change their attitude - I want them to feel empowered to change their behavior and make a difference.

I'll close with a quote that sums up this post rather nicely... 

"Leadership is practiced not so much in words as in attitude and in actions"

-Harold S. Geneen

Becoming A Woman of Influence

What does 'becoming_awoi' mean, you ask? It means, "Becoming a Woman of Influence," and it is based off of a book I received this summer from my friend, Sarah Duvall. I know it sounds cheesy, but let me explain:

Throughout my life I have been blessed to have outstanding role models that provided me with guidance and support. However, when I came to college, I found girls who became even closer than role models; I found friends, sisters and mentors. Their relationships made me who I am today. I wish I could repay them for their outstanding love, lessons and time they gave to me - but I can't. For lack of a better phrase, it's my time to 'pay it forward' to a new generation. 

This blog is dedicated to all the women role models I have had in my life including my mom, grandmother, sister, teachers and friends (there are too many to name!). Everything they have been to me, I wish to be for others. Just as they influenced me, I wish to: 

"encourage dreams, speak into lives and listen to hearts." 

- Becoming a Woman of Influence

Becoming a women of influence is more than building relationships, I believe it can encompass a number of things. Throughout the semester this blog will help me gain a better understanding of myself, reflect on my path to become a better citizen, allow me to evaluate my relationships with members of my family, sorority, roommates, etc. I want to hold myself to high standards and encourage others to realize the potential they have within themselves, so they can do the same!

Because this post is mostly introductory, I'd like to share a song that remains close to my heart. Part of the lyrics are displayed on the side of my blog, and have inspired this blog as well :). This song was written my one of my close friends, and the words never cease to inspire me...

Who I Am

By: Megan Blosser

Can't make a lot of noise by myself,

Can't get through this life without the encouragement from someone else, 

and through the trials and the miles I count the smiles, 

I wouldn't trade the world for this nifty thing. 

I'd be bored, I'd be blue. 

Without you here I wish you knew how much I look up to you, 

to be a part of something big makes me grin, 

where do I even begin? 

'Cause in this life I'm gonna try, gonna cry

Gonna know that it'll be alright. 

Gonna smile, gonna fight, gonna fly. 

Gonna life, gonna hope 

Found my home here with my biggest fans

That love me for who I am. 

At the end of the day I know I'm blessed. 

'Cause no one else would ever put up with my craziness, 

Make me laugh, lift me up when I can't stand, 

To be guided by a gentle hand. 

People come and people go...

And some will stay and pave a way and plant a seed to grow

Take your hand, help you come a long and see. 

That love is the greatest of things.

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