Inspiration is Everywhere
by Mary Foley

Right now, I'm feeling inspired by people all around me.

As I write this article, the space shuttle Discovery (what a great name, huh?) is attempting another launch two years after the Columbia shuttle burned up upon re-entry. At the commanding helm is Eileen Collins, the first woman to command a space shuttle (this is actually the second time she's done this!).

I loved hearing about what drove her to become an astronaut, who were her heroes growing up, and so much more in an interview she gave. (You can check out this interview here:

I've also been inspired by some Bodacious Women before me. My very own grandmother, "Spunky Ethel", to whom I dedicate my book "Bodacious! Woman: Outrageously in Charge of Your Life and Lovin" It' would be celebrating her 103rd birthday later this month if she were alive today. She called herself spunky because she lived life on her own terms.

Not much younger and still with us is Leona Hughes, a 96 year old woman who I met while speaking at the Phi Mu Sorority National Convention. She took the time to write me a wonderful note that so astounded and impressed me I want to share it with you. She wrote:

"I still drive my own car with a license which permits me to drive until I am 100 and have the privilege of applying for a new one at that point. I am an active volunteer in 6 not-for-profit organizations, am owner and president of a corporation, take time out for reading, needlework, photography, correspondence with friends abroad, travel, and just hanging out with my friends. Though I love what you're doing, it has come a bit late in my career. I wish you great success."

All I can say is that she still has a great sense of humor and that I want to be like her when I grow up!

Another source of inspiration has been that in the United States we celebrated our national independence on July 4th. But, the truth is, such national independence means little without personal independence.

The environment may allow me to choose what I want to believe and how I want to live, but it's up to me to do the choosing. It's up to me to decide what I want for my life, my career, my business and pursue it. That's being bodacious.

Yes, dreams ARE possible! The women who have inspired me this month are proof.

And I share them with you to inspire you as well. Until next time, live bodaciously.