Gifts from the National Speakers Association (NSA)
Last night, my colleagues and I were asked, “What do you want your legacy to be?”
I attended a networking event for a group of speakers hosted by the National Speakers Association (NSA). I have been part of this organization for a few years and have loved every minute. If you are a new or seasoned keynote speaker, I highly recommend joining our association.
Perks of Community
The NSA community has many benefits, including an abundance of resources for speakers just starting out. I have been part of this group since I participated in the Fast Track candidacy program. In the candidacy program, we have the opportunity to meet local and national speakers as we learn the business of professional speaking.
One of the attendees last night had been our speaker a few years ago when I was just beginning to write my first book. At the event last night, I re-introduced myself. He said, “Yeah, I know you are! The mitzvah gal.”
I smiled because I am always humbled and honored that somehow I have managed to become synonymous with mitzvahs. It was my goal when I started this process to share my story about the mitzvah project. I wanted to make the word “mitzvah” a household word/concept and to share it outside of the Jewish community.
Personal Connections
As a Jewish child, I was taught about this idea of doing a mitzvah when I had my bat mitzvah at 13 years old. I officially took on the mitzvahs as all Jewish children are expected to do, but the idea of mitzvahs is universal. It has such a powerful and wonderful connotation. It makes me smile every time someone tells me that they know what a mitzvah is now and that I have helped introduce them to the word.
So, what do you want your legacy to be? Perhaps it’s one you’ve given thought to and perhaps not. I never expected this to be mine, but I’m certainly happy to continue being the mitzvah gal forever.
