I was at a SAFEchild board meeting last night. As usual, we kicked off the meeting with a short team building exercise. I both love and hate things like this. We were to share one word that explained what we want to be remembered for. Just one word to communicate my legacy! I am naturally verbose so any time I need to settle on just one word I start to feel drips of sweat settle on my breastbone.
As each board member shared his and her very noble words, I was rummaging through the files of my brain to determine the ONE WORD that would be my legacy. Oh, I was feeling some pressure because I was in a room with such extraordinary displays of benevolence. I recalled a conversation Mac Daddy and I had ages ago. I told him when I die I want a park bench in my home town with a small engraved plaque that says, “Ilina. She had Moxie.” And so there was my word, far from the magnanimous and honorable choices of my counterparts. But still, it was true. Plus, I think I can live up to that. I’m not so sure I have enough karma and lives to leave a legacy of patience as a virtue.
From our pals at Merriam-Webster:
Moxie
5-6 fresh blackberries
few sprigs fresh mint
2 ounces vodka
splash of citrus soda (I’m partial to Hansen’s Key Lime Twist.)
Muddle blackberries and fresh mint in a cocktail shaker. Add ice, vodka, and citrus soda. Shake ‘er up. Strain into martini glass. Sugared rim would be decadent but optional.
Oh, and in an apropos display of moxie, let me remind you all that a donation to SAFEchild, however large or small, truly makes a difference. SAFEchild makes a profound difference in the lives of abused and neglected children and their families. Our work is quiet yet powerful. And as long as you’re playing the role of bartender at home tonight, the few bucks you save on cocktails out on the town can be donated to SAFEchild!