You may remember Becky Blanton, whose knowledgeable and passionate voice lit up our discussion about media and journalism here, and here. We also publicized Becky’s efforts to win a contest that would send her to the TED conference in London for a speaking engagement on Daniel Pink’s dime here.
Becky has a sparkling personality, and quickly became a beacon on Seth Godin’s network, Triiibes, where I first encountered her talents. She is engaging, curious, supportive, interested and interesting. Her ability with words is prolific and enviable, and it’s not surprising she is an award-winning journalist.
What you may not know is that Becky was a homeless person just three short years ago. That she descended into invisibility with breathtaking speed is her observation in this, her take on the subject of homelessness:
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As of a couple months ago, Becky has resumed living in her van.
Related articles by Zemanta
- The year I was homeless: Becky Blanton on TED.com (ted.com)
- The grow-your-own homeless hostel (guardian.co.uk)
- New York gives homeless one-way ticket out (guardian.co.uk)
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Wow Betsy, this was powerful and touching to listen to. *Davina wipes tears away* Becky has such a genuine way about her. I was caught up in her story before she’d barely begun to tell it — there’s just something about the sound of her voice and the way she expresses herself; very humble. In a way, just as we are not where we live or where we work… we are not our story either.
Davina´s last blog ..Changing Seasons in Gentle Stride
I didn’t know you watched Ted. I love that site. That’s a good one. What are some of your favorites?
So you know this women and helped her get on Ted?
Becky,
Awesome to see you at TEDs after reading your wonderful insights in Seth Godin’s triiibes so long ago (ok, not that long, but seems like it to me!). Your writing has always rocked. Your heartfelt speaking style ain’t too shabby either. Wow! Good for you!
Betsy,
Thank you for highlighting Becky and her message.
Lori Hoeck´s last blog ..Vigilance, it’s a 24-7 thing
Hi Betsy – I haven’t heard of Becky before – great to hear how she has changed things around for herself. She wouldn’t be making her discoveries about herself if she had played it safe and not taken the plunge and gone off in a van.
I do think that if you believe you are worthwhile, the people you encounter will reflect that back to you, regardless of how you live. I hear of plenty of people with very alternative lifestyles, who are very happy!
Robin´s last blog ..Ego Is Not A Dirty Word
Hi Davina – Yes, the first time I spoke with Becky on the phone, her voice just knocked me over. But her words had been knockin’ me over long before that! I had to think about your comment “we are not our story.” At first I disagreed, because I believe I am mine. So I’m wondering if you meant “we are not what others think of our story” ? Speaking of stories, how’s that Thyme of Davina’s Life book coming? No pressure!
Hi Ben – I “know” Becky, though I’ve never met her. We participated in Triiibes together. Last year, she competed in Daniel Pink’s Johnny Bunko contest to win the trip to TED based upon online votes. She is brimming with ideas, some of which she graciously shared for me. We’re hoping she might visit, though any Southerner in their right mind would wait to make the trip in the spring. Thanks.
Hi Lori – Isn’t it great to see this? What a thrill! I pop into Triiibes infrequently now, but when I do I read what Becky has to say first. Stay tuned for more. She’s been up to something! Thanks.
Hi Robin – You’re right. This is a story that almost could have never been, and now look. I had the idea for a book set up like those children’s books where you pick what happens next and then are directed to the appropriate page to continue that way as opposed to another. But somebody up and did that already.
And yes, alternatives that are chosen . . . well, I think that’s the point, too. Freedom to choose the way you live is the ultimate happiness, no? And when feel we can’t make choices about the way we live it’s a prison sentence. I think that’s what Becky was referring to when she mentioned attitude. Great thoughts, thank you.
Wow wonderful post…. I am very moved by her story and the links
Thank you for sharing.
Patricia´s last blog ..Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins
This was pretty fascinating for me to watch, and like Davina said, I liked her the moment she began speaking. Grounded, real, yet inspiring just because of who she is. Thank you for sharing this video; I loved watching it, and it touched me deeply.
Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s last blog ..Love Leaves Again
Hi Patricia – Stay tuned for more about Becky! Glad you enjoyed this preview. Thanks.
Hi Megan – I’m so glad you enjoyed this. And yes, there are many things wonderful about Becky Blanton, not the least of which is her ability to connect. Thank you.
I have hope, I can figure out this EBook! but today is trying my soul…wonder if Becky has an mediation left over !! Ha ha!
Patricia´s last blog ..Welcome! To The Harvest Potluck!