Faith-Filled Class Clown - Episode 3
Becky got the courage to know what she wanted and how to ask for it at the age of 27. Showing us that it is never too late and never too early to be who you are.
Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women.
— Maya Angelou
Stuck with “Jim” on an Elevator
Thoughts from Faith-filled Class Clown
I first met Becky because we worked at the same restaurant in the 80’s. It was the kind of place, that if you mentioned the name to anyone who was around during that time, they would remember. One-of-a-kind. Always a long line. For every egg dish ordered each person received a biscuit, a piece of banana bread, a muffin (either blueberry or bran) and a cinnamon roll. So if all four people at your table ordered egg dishes you got a bread basket overflowing with carbs! All delicious or course. And the best French toast I have ever had made from apple, cinnamon raisin bread with real maple syrup. Anyway I digress down memory lane.
This place was more than a place to us. It was a home away from home. We met people who became friends for life. We met lovers (honestly I hate that word but how else do you describe it?), had relationships, some got married, had kids. Throughout it all we worked hard and had fun. This is one of the places, because of the people, that helped me form a very strong work ethic.
One night I had heard that Becky and her boyfriend broke up. She was very sad about it. Not knowing her well I invited her out for a drink to get her mind off of it and the rest, as they say, is history. We talked, we got to know each other as women do, and we agreed to do it again. I was there for her mishaps in the dating world and she was there when I had my first child, often pinch-hitting in the role of co-parent. (I was single in those days.) Eventually she and Dave reconnected, married and had three children. They are grown now and she is a grandmother to four boys.
I am reminded of the simple things in life as Becky and I talked during our on-air conversation. She likes her family and enjoys spending time with them. An easy thing that we can make happen - even if it’s virtual. Eating and talking. Enjoying your friends. Taking time for yourself. And a takeaway from coronavirus - not rushing, slowing down. I hope this is something that becomes everyone’s new normal as best as we can. To be in the moments and not just speeding through them to get to the next thing.
Lastly I applaud and admire Becky for reaching the point at age 27 to feel empowered for the first time. It’s never too late or too early. She would not hide who she was and felt convicted. I knew what I wanted. Can we all say that? For further motivation on asking yourself that question I recommend Rita Wilson’s TedX Nashville Women: The Question I Almost Didn’t Ask And How It Changed My Life.
And if you are ever fortunate enough to be stuck on an elevator with John Krasinski, think of Becky and how she loves his humor and thinks he’s cute!
Slowing down is a power move.
— Amy Cuddy
