by Michael Morrisey
Several of the female persuasion have asked me if this article was going to be about them. I want to go on record and say that most of the women in my life have been inspiring somehow, someway. (Phew, I hope that covers that base!)
When I left you last, your eyes had been opened by thinking about the “inspiring women” in your lives. I know, I know, it can be difficult. Maybe a clarification of “inspiring” is needed. Webster defines “inspiring” as: “exalting to the spirit, divine-being of such surpassing excellence as to suggest inspiration by God and divine guidance — a special influence of a divinity on the minds of human beings.” Or in simple words, motivate, encourage, enthuse, stimulate and excite. Gosh, I am fired up and ready to go after researching that definition!
I have three more females that I want to introduce to you as “inspiring women.”
First, I want you to meet Linda. She is an international businesswoman with accomplishments in the maledominated world of energy that many said could not be done. At one point in her career, she was named the 11th most powerful businesswoman in the world by Fortune magazine. She is a product of Catholic education, attending school in our own archdiocese.
In no uncertain terms, she is a strong advocate of Catholic education!
Next, say hi to Angela. She made history as the first Asian-American and teacher ever to be crowned Miss America! Over the years, she has made appearances on numerous TV and radio shows, promoting the importance of education, character in the classroom and the teaching of values. Angela emphasizes not only the importance of education, but the importance of Catholic education. Supporting that passion, she is a past and present teacher in Catholic schools in California.
And last, but certainly not least, meet Immaculée. This faith-filled woman survived the 1994 Rwandan genocide. During this time, she lost most of her family, but she survived to share the story and her miraculous transition into forgiveness and a profound relationship with God. She has worked at the United Nations, written three books and has established a foundation to help others heal from the long-term effects of war.
Talk about inspiring! I cordially invite each of you to join us for our Inspiring Women 2010 luncheon and meet Linda, Angela and Immaculée upfront and in person. The luncheon features these three amazing speakers and promotes the power of Career, Education and Faith. Together, these three women will keep you on the edge of your seats as they share their inspirational journeys!
For more information on the luncheon, visit the Web site at: www. inspiringwomen2010luncheon.com or call (913) 647-0344. I look forward to being inspired with you!