Can I say this about Gwen Ifill?
Last edited Sun Nov 20, 2016, 05:50 PM - Edit history (2)
I would see Gwen on many a morning at the bakery between the two buildings we separately occupied. She would come in around 7am for coffee and a pastry. As did I. I never spoke to her. Never told her how much I admired her. I never said to her how I thought of her as a mentor, even though she never met me personally. I didn't want to appear to be a "groupie." I regret that. I really wish that I had gushed over her....or at least bought her coffee occassionally.
She taught me, through TV and true journalism, to be a better person. She taught me to persevere and to never give up. She taught me to have an open mind. And she showed me what a strong woman of any color could achieve. She had more challenges than I have had throughout my life. Why? Because I am white. Yet, she was an incredible success. I am and will always be....in awe of her.
I grieve for Gwen. Her legacy is one that makes me want to believe that I should never quit and that if I do, I fail not only her, but I fail myself. So, I am a 54 year old white woman who has had advantages that women of color never get. And I grieve for that. Because the color of my skin should not dictate my worth or any other woman's worth.
Please take a moment to recognize that we have lost a truly wonderful woman, journalist and a beacon at the top of a hill amongst a sea of darkness.
Rest In Peace, my dear Gwen. I will miss you.
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I wouldn't be a bit surprised if she'd picked up that good vibe from you. Successful people often can read what others are feeling...
So don't be so hard on yourself.
She just might have heard you.
I also am a journalist (now retired) but I would love to have worked with her.
I know it was mentioned here that we wanted Gwen to moderate at least one of the debates-- and we wondered how come she wasn't mentioned as a possibility. Now we know.
She is missed.
kept Googling to see if I could learn why. Nothing. Then she came back, but would have occasional absences. Then, when she didn't show up after the election I thought man Gwen, you know we could really use you now! To think she was in hospice while I was having my selfish whine
RIP
that she was terminally ill. It's hard to believe because I can still see and hear her so clearly.
Very sad
Rest in Peace, Gwen
I never got to see her in person, so it's touching to hear about your experience and feelings. Thank you for that.
Its a pity that hugging is limited in our world... I'm a big hugger and was at a conference last week where I hugged 2 people I like who I hadn't seen in a while, and even though it was a business setting they reacted like it was a nice surprise. I laughed to myself afterward because who knows... but to my way of thinking, if you feel something positive for someone, show it. There's too much distance in our world.
One more thought, FWIW... you might be able to send what you wrote here to her family... you never know if you might be the only person who expresses something like that, then they'll treasure that thought. I certainly found it very moving because I also have such an appreciation for her. And if others write to them as well, all the better.
Here's a big hug for you and your strength and sweetness.
