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.