Gloria Steinem

One may not think that Gloria Steinem and Michael Jackson have a lot in common, but they are in fact two individuals who have forever changed our world through their unique contributions.

I recently had the great good fortune to spend time, for the second time this year, in the presence of Ms. Steinem. As always, she was astonishing – particularly at the age of 75 – in her physical appearance, her emotional connectivity, her deep intelligence and her delightful irreverence. I’ve observed that women (myself included!) continually thank her for the profound difference she has made in their lives – and how she shifted and shaped a new paradigm for ALL women. She is truly a woman who can proudly realize and appreciate the qualitative difference she has made in the world.

Michael Jackson’s early demise will not afford him an historical perspective, yet many in these days after his sudden death are helping to illustrate how his music, creativity and initiative opened doors and forever changed our musical landscape, and the lives of so many who followed in his pioneering footsteps.

Each in their own way were ground breakers…..and because of them, our world turns differently – for us, and for every generation hereafter.

When you look back on your life, what accomplishment(s) will make you swell with pride? What unique gift is inside you that you need to offer up to the universe? What is YOUR contribution to the world – that part of you that will live on long after you have gone?

Not all of us want to change the world on the level of Gloria and Michael……yet we should all strive to leave our little corner of it better for having been here. Michael Jackson’s premature passing reminds us that tomorrow is promised to no one. Seize today to think about what contribution you’d like to make and take a step forward to reaching that goal. Who knows, your efforts may too result in shifting the universe as we know it!