Did you ever wonder what you would be like getting ready for your 100th birthday? Would you be spry, alert, and still busy with the ways of the world? Or playing another game of bingo, in a nursing home, staring listlessly out windows? As I continue to do research for my book “GUTSY! How Women Leaders Make Change” I find amazing individuals who give me courage to face the elder years with the possibility of staying fit and vital. Let me introduce you to Ruth Gruber who will be 100 on September 30, 2011 in physical years. In every other way she is ageless. Every leadership development course should include stories of people like Ruth. There is a yearning for the inspiration of men and women of courage and conviction who did not shirk away from difficulties, who exemplify the word gutsy. Brief synopsis: By the age of 20 Ruth had earned a PhD from the University of Cologne in German philosophy, modern English literature, and art history. That in itself is fantastic. Yet, it was during the time she spent in Germany witnessing Nazi rallies that she brought her concern back to America. Unafraid and determined she was assigned a secret mission to Europe to bring 1000 Jewish refugees and wounded American soldiers from Italy to the U.S. The documentary about her life “Ahead of Time” will be available for purchase this month. The story of the girl from Brooklyn who traveled the world and was a humanitarian at a time when there were only a handful of women breaking boundaries of any kind is what women of today can learn from and be proud of. It is time to dig into the treasure chest of gutsy women who have and continue to make a difference. Perhaps Jersey Shore and the Housewives of Beverly Hills, etc. can be archived and we can start to profile women who know what really matters in life. I’d love to hear about some of your favorite GUTSY WOMEN to include them in my book.
WOW, Sylvia!! A very hearty congratulations on your new book, “GUTSY! How Women Leaders Make Change” – just wonderful. I am so happy to see you continuing to add value to the world. I for one benefited greatly from your commitment to constantly make a difference. I have confidence that this book will be as valuable as “Don’t Bring It To Work”!! I cannot wait to read your final product. I love you for all that you do with your life, talents, and gifts – one of which is great perseverance. Continued success! – and I will stay in touch. Bob Roberts
Sylvia, what a great idea for a book. One of the first people I thought about when you mentioned “gutsy” women was Simone Veil. She’s a French politician, still active, who did a lot for women in France. She’s had a tough life – she’s a concentration camp survivor. Amazing woman.
What a great idea! It’s shocking to know that women make up 51% of the world’s population, but only 17% are in congress and men continually seem to dominate in professions over women. Although I’m not a fan, I admire Sarah Palin in a way. Being the first women to run for President (however, I wish Hilary would have stuck with it).
My vote goes to Lisa Ling for all her choices to go overseas, be held captive, and still stand up for what she believes in.
I hope you include yourself in this book. Sounds like this is going to be an inspiring and motivating book for all women. I would love to give it to my wife once it’s published. Thanks!
I would suggest Lady Gaga. She is not only gutsy in appearance but for standing firm in what she believes and fighting for her rights. I am impressed with her because despite her weird public image, she actually do something for a cause.
We are still lacking behind for this topic in India. Yes your book might work wonders here. Many more things to do here.
