Category: Influential Person

It was the first day of the second-grade new school, new uniform, and new kids to try and get to know and become friends with. While another new student and I walked down the long corridor to the second-grade classroom, which was almost at the end of the first floor. I will never forget how nervous I was about starting a new school. First time I walked in that class I will not forget all the new faces I was seeing for the very first time. We got introduced and took our seats. Right, when we sat down our teacher told us to take out a book and we were gonna start reading a story from it as a class. While I was sitting in my seat I hoped to God she didn’t call on me. Reading when I was in second grade was one of the worst things for me. When I was in second grade I read at a kindergarten reading level. The teacher finally decided to call on someone to read and sure enough, she called on me. Although I don’t remember exactly what the reading was about I do remember the pressure on myself to be able to read those few sentences. It wasn’t an easy task as I struggled to say the words and pronounce them correctly. I could feel the eyes of my classmates looking at me and judging my reading. The teacher had to jump in multiple times to help me before the nightmare was finally over. All I could think about is the first impressions I had given to my classmates and how dumb they all must have thought I was. My reading never would’ve developed into what it is today if it wasn’t for my tutor Mrs. Mercurio and many fun events that happened throughout my early years of reading and writing that shaped who I am today.

It wasn’t until third grade that I started the testing that would later diagnose me with dyslexia. After all my testing which took a few months, I met the most influential person that helped me throughout the years with my reading and writing. Her name was Anne Mercurio and she was my first resource teacher she improved my reading and writing so much that I couldn’t describe it in words. Every day when our normal teacher would teach our class English and a couple of other students would go to her little classroom. This was our safe place where we would laugh and have a great time. Although this class we had a lot of good times and laughs we would also do a lot of reading, and writing, and take our spelling tests in that room. One of my most memorable experiences in that class was when I was in the 6th grade. Every so often we would have these competitions in school they would either be writing-based or drawing-based. These competitions would have schools from all over the country involved in them and this time it was a poem that was going to be submitted. The winner of this competition got their poem published in a book of fellow winners from all over the country. When we went down to Mrs. Mercurio’s office, I wasn’t taking it very seriously because I had done a lot of these types of competitions in the past and I had a pretty good feeling that I wasn’t going to win no matter what I wrote. When we first got to her class, she told us to pick a topic that we enjoyed talking about and wanted to write about. So since I was still younger I decided to write about how much I hated shopping. This poem was probably the most fun I have ever had while I was writing something. I wrote my short poem about how much I hated shopping at Macy’s and other stores while Mrs. Mercurio helped me all along the way. She helped me write it and use the right words that rhymed. After, she helped all of us with the wording of our poems we submitted the poems for the contest.

A long time went by and I completely forgot that we even had submitted these poems. Every day before we started classes we would have a school assembly and we would sing the national anthem and we would have students tell us all the news that was going on with the school. Since I was in sixth grade I obviously wasn’t really paying attention to the announcements that were usually the same every day. My friends and I were off making jokes and talking to each other about what happened last night when we were playing video games. Then all of a sudden my principal started talking and you knew it was something serious when she started talking. Then she said she was going to announce the winners of the poem competition that we had months ago. Once I heard this I instantly started just making jokes again because I knew there was no chance I had won. Then all of a sudden she called my name and asked me to come to the front of the assembly. I started walking up still in shock that I had actually won at something that I had thought there was no way in hell I would win. This was the first real moment in my life, I felt like I could actually accomplish something in my writing. It was the first time I had someone tell me something that I had written was good and I didn’t just see all the red ink all over my writing.

After many years of going to see Mrs. Mercurio try and fix my problems with writing and reading, I had finally made it to high school and I was finally able to do things without the help of seeing my tutor. In my junior year, I had an English teacher who put the fear of god into me about my writing. I would go to class and constantly be getting lectured about the proper way to write an essay. One day after one of the in-class essays we had to write I remember getting my paperback and seeing the most red I have ever seen on a paper. Since I didn’t really read criticism of my writing when I was in high school because I took it very personally. We had multiple classes of the teacher telling us what we cannot do in essays. All I remember is that she said “Don’t use but” and then just went off about what not to do and how you should never start sentences with specific words and the proper way to write an essay with five paragraphs. This scared me for a long time I really only wrote essays about how the teacher had taught me and I hadn’t used “but” and tried to avoid doing anything she had told me. The rest of high school I know for a fact that I didn’t use it but at the start of an essay once.

James Marshall Hendrix, or otherwise known as Jimi Hendrix, is one of the most influential musical figures in music history. Recognized as one of the most genius guitarists, singers, and songwriters of the ’60s, Jimi Hendrix has paved the way for what is rock and roll today. Hendrix is presumably considered as one of the most original and greatest electric guitarists of all time. He is notably remembered for experimenting and combining a variety of different genres of music and composing it into a rendition of his own distinct sound. Hendrix was also praised for his outrageous yet charismatic performance skills on stage as he created and improved the image of rock. Hendrix’s rise to fame however only lasted for a brief four years due to the abrupt stop of his death at the young age of 27. Although his fame did not last long, Jimi Hendrix, innovated a new eccentric style to rock and roll that had a powerful impact on music history and inspired many musicians who came after him.

Biography of Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix was born on November 27, 1942, in Seattle, Washington, into a middle-class family. At an early age, Jimi’s parents divorced and his father received full custody of him and his four other siblings. Growing up, Jimi was always drawn to music and would even strum a broom as if it were a guitar. Eventually, Jimi’s father would gift him an acoustic guitar and young Jimi would learn how to play entirely self-taught just by listening and watching others play. However, in 1960 his music career came to a halt due to Jimi enlisting in the army to avoid jail time for riding in stolen cars. Stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Jimi would meet and form a band with bassist guitar player, Billy Cox. After being discharged from the army in 1962, Jimi would go on to become a session guitarist. At this point in his life, Hendrix had sustained attention and popularity and had played as a back-line guitarist for several legendary acts such as Tina Turner, Little Richard, Sam Cooke, and The Isley Brothers. However tired of being a backup guitarist, Hendrix decided to become a lead guitarist and was brought out to England in 1966, where he formed the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Quickly after releasing hits such as ‘Hey Joe’, ‘The Purple Haze’, ‘The Wind Cries Mary’, and many more contributed to Hendrix’s immediate success in Britain. Jimi’s stage performance also took the US by surprise, as he played the guitar with his teeth and behind his back, and even burned his guitar live on stage. Hendrix changed the game of rock and roll as well by changing the trend by singing and playing the lead at the same time, which no other artists had done before. He revolutionized a new sound to rock and roll and wanted to make more complex music that he resided with. Unfortunately, before Hendrix could see his vision through, he died of drug-related complications on September 18, 1970, in London.

Analysis of the Historical Contributions of Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix has left a long-lasting legacy on rock and roll today by breaking down barriers of tradition and creating a new level of said genre. However, one of the most impactful contributions Jimi Hendrix had on US history that is often overlooked is his influence on black artists. From George Clinton and Sly the Family Stone to Kanye West and Pharrell, Hendrix’s artistry foreshadowed the possibilities of what black music could look and sound like. However, during his time of fame, he faced many controversial affairs due to his affiliation with being a black man playing in a ‘white’ genre of music. For example, because of Hendrix’s striking yet audacious performances, he was labeled as a ‘wild man’, ‘Black Elvis’, or even the name of ‘Psychedelic Supersede’, which was a term used to describe black people who were exceptionally talented. Hendrix often faced double standards when white rock and roll stars, who ‘ransacked black musical styles’, were praised for their work, while Hendrix was accused of and criticized for ripping off other white artists. However, although he faced many racial critics his audience was made up of white people. Yet whenever Hendrix was addressed by these fans, they hardly mentioned Jimi’s race but instead about his guitar. They could hear his genius but they couldn’t see his heritage. This displayed the constant reminder to Hendrix that being a black artist he had to work twice as hard to prevail in a genre that had belonged to his people, but was not viewed as such.

However, although Hendrix faced these problems he continued to persevere and work twice as hard to push down boundaries. For example, before Jimi Hendrix came into the scene of music, black artists were presented through conservatism, as there was a sense that black artists had to present themselves in as dapper a fashion as possible to counter any racist perceptions of black people and black performers. Yet, once Hendrix became successful, he played a key role in changing this image as he wore his distinctive afro and sharp suits that eluded a ‘freaked out’ look and many black artists followed in suit and embraced their blackness on stage as well. Hendrix continued to push through the obstacles that he faced as a black man playing a white man’s genre and was one of the first to open the doors for other black artists to express themselves through the music world.

Personalized Interpretation of Jimi Hendrix

Throughout Jimi Hendrix’s life, he faced many obstacles and struggles yet he continued to stay determined and follow through with what he found as his calling which was music. Hendrix’s quality of spiritedness and purposefulness to persevere when it seemed like all odds were against him is what contributed to his success. Hendrix’s success relates to my own personal and academic success because there are times in which I feel that all odds are against me. I also identify with Hendrix because I have faced a similar event in my life of growing up in a brown and black neighborhood and going to a predominantly white school where at times I felt out of place and undermined, although I contributed the same if not more than the other white students at my school. I had to work twice as hard just to get the same recognition as the student whose status of identity was held above mine. So, Hendrix’s role of perseverance and patience to work hard and achieve his goals in life is what plays a big part in my success as a student. This is why Hendrix’s contributions to history should be considered important, because although he could not read or write, he was still able to learn how to play the guitar by himself. To add to that, although he was a black man playing in a white man’s category of music, he was still able to make a name for himself in rock and roll and become one of the greatest electric guitarists to this day.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jimi Hendrix’s legacy in music history continues to live on to this day. Hendrix’s perseverance and diligence have contributed to his determination to break boundaries in music history and shape rock and roll into what it is today. From incorporating and developing his own distinguishable sound, to altering the image of black artists, and rocking the racial divide in rock in roll; Hendrix’s has left an impactful mark not only on music, but as well as on black artists today such as Lenny Kravitz, Most Def, Frank Ocean, and many more. Acknowledged as one of the most renowned musical figures in rock history, Jimi Hendrix’s innovation and revolution on rock and roll have continued to influence and pave the way in the history of rock music.

Many people associate to the term ‘genius’ with someone who is beyond talented in subjects such as math and science. However, Martin Luther King Jr. re-defined this term for society and generations to come. His contributions to how society should function that affected the passage of history allow him to be associated with the genius of people like Socrates, Einstein, Newton, and many more. His genius was his understanding of how humans work. His genius was in his ability to use words instead of fists to ‘fight’ for what he believed in. His genius is the reason why he is an influential person in my life.

MLK was unmatched in his ability to bring people together and inspire them around a common purpose. During the civil rights movement, his persistence was a characteristic that many people admire back then and to this day. Not only did he work hard, but he also worked hard for the right purpose. Many people believed that the only way for the racism and oppression to end was through violence and fear. MLK overcame this by refusing to use violence. He wanted to show the world that African Americans are no different than anyone else and deserve the same rights as people of different race. Despite the violence and threats that he received, he still continued to be passionate about the ideas that mattered to him the most. With the words, “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character”, Martin Luther King Jr. had changed America. His words and vision had changed this nation fundamentally and they continue to inspire us, 46 years later.

After learning about him through books and videos, he has influenced me to stick with what I believe even if no one else agrees with me. I truly admire his drive to create change in the world when no one else would. Standing up against powerful people when no one else would is the true definition of bravery. MLK and his speeches were the catalysts to my passion for public speaking and debate. After taking part in debate tournaments and speaking about my ideas in front of an audience, my passion for this subject has grown tremendously. MLK’s story has also applied to aspects beyond public speaking. His ability to persevere through difficult circumstances has inspired me to become a more competitive tennis player and to continue fighting for every point. With his own personality traits and skills, he was able to inspire people to seek change in the face of resistance and to persist until the change came about.

How different would this world be if Harvey Milk was still alive today? Today, there are a lot of people in San Francisco who still don’t know who Harvey Milk is and was, but he was an important man in the history of San Francisco during the 1970s that changed the way of life for the people in the LGBTQ community. During Milk’s time, he impacted young people, senior citizens, and the gay community, but today Milk is still being remembered after his death 40 years ago, and almost everyone accepts people being LGBTQ. Overall, Harvey was a leader that was a catalyst for change.

Milk Harvey Milk was a leader that helped inspire the way LGBTQ people are today. An example of this is in the research paper ‘The Pioneer Harvey Milk’ by John Cloud. It says: “His death inspired many associates – most notably Cleve Jones, who later envisioned the greatest work of art, the AIDS quilt”. This quote explains how Harvey Milk’s death inspired and triggered Jones to have an amazing idea for the AIDS quilt. This quilt is an enormous memorial to remember the lives of people who have died of AIDS and similar causes. Weighing an estimated 54 tons, it is the largest piece of community folk art in the world as of 2016. Another example from the same text is: “John Cloud is a staff writer for TIME magazine and covers politics, crime, and other social issues”. John Cloud was inspired by Harvey Milk to now write about issues, and he wrote many papers on Harvey Milk. Today John Cloud has won many awards and is known for being the face of gay power. An additional example from ‘The Mayor of Castro Street’ by Randy Shilts is on pages 211-214. During a gay protest police, shot rubber balls that tore off the scalp of the women marching next to Cleve Jones. It says: “Rather than surrender, the gay protesters launched into an elaborate game of cat and mouse in the streets of Barcelona”. This shows how the gay protestors were motivated by Harvey Milk being in office. Ultimately, Harvey Milk helps gays become more self-aware and not be afraid of showing what they are.

Harvey Milk changed the way of life for gay people today. For example, in the text ‘The Pioneer Harvey Milk’, John Cloud says: “After Harvey Milk became the first openly gay man elected to any substantial political office in the history of the planet, thousands of astounded people wrote to him. ‘I thank God’, wrote a 68-year-old lesbian”. This quote is explaining how after he got elected into office many people were content and wrote to him about how he changed their life. Another example from ‘The Pioneer Harvey Milk’ says, “No one person could change all that, and not all the changes are complete. But a few powerful figures gave gay individuals the confidence they needed to stop lying, and none understood how his public role could affect private lives better than Milk”. This quote from the text explains how no one really gave the gay community, the confidence to not be afraid and come out, but Harvey Milk was a powerful figure that changed the lives of LGBTQ people for the better. A third example from ‘The Pioneer Harvey Milk’ says, “Milk’s killing probably awakened as many gay people as his election had”. This quote explains how by Harvey Milk’s death he was able to make even more gay people open up about their sexuality. His election and his death made him even more popular today and made the gay community more powerful, especially in 2019.

Gay people were treated terribly up until the time Harvey Milk was elected to office. An example of gay people being treated terribly is in ‘The Mayor of Castro Street’ by Randy Shilts on pages 91-93. Two young men had been standing inside Hamburger Mary’s, a popular gay hippie restaurant, “Two police officers had simply walked in, beat them to the floor with their billy clubs, and hauled them into a paddy wagon, where they pummeled them more. This comes to show that just by being inside a gay restaurant police will beat you and think badly of you. This type of treatment that the gays received during this time is awful when you think about it now and there is nothing you can do because that is in the past. A second example of the gay community being mistreated is in a police station when a cop and a gay person, ordered to be stripped down and beaten. The gay person said: “He got a funny look each time he hit me, one of the victims said when he recounted his story to a gay paper. It was like all his frustrations were coming out”. This text shows how it is usually the police doing damage to the gay community instead of others. Police during this time thought they had special rights to beat whomever they want, and some cops still think they do because there are videos of them surfing the web. An additional example of gays being brutalized is from ‘The Mayor of Castro Street’ by Randy Shilts on pages 91-93, it said: “According to an account in one gay newspaper, the police managed to hospitalize three men on foray alone. One with his skull split open. The trio was charged with trespassing in a park”. This is another example of police just abusing their power and not thinking right. Those three men are still human, even if they are gay. The police first beat them badly enough to hospitalize them, and then they were charged with trespassing in a park. Usually, all parks are public, so this shows the police are corrupt.

Harvey Milk is many things and has had many achievements. Two characteristics of Harvey Milk that he has is courage and vision. Milk has courage because, in the film we watched in class, he stands in front of crowds and speaks to them without being afraid of getting killed on the spot. Many figures have died in that manner. Milk had vision because he had a clear picture in his mind that he was committed and passionate about creating. He wanted a future where everyone was safe and sound in their own body. These characteristics were important when Milk lived because the gay community in San Francisco needed a leader for them to stop hiding. These two characteristics aided him in becoming a catalyst for change because Milk had a goal in his mind and he dared to achieve that goal and not be afraid because of his sexuality.

In today’s world, Harvey Milk would be a catalyst for change because in his time he was helping only some people in San Francisco, but today there are even more people, so he would be changing even more people’s lives. He would be working for the city, so he would have a say in how things work. For example, he would be able to change laws or have changes in the city made. Overall, Harvey Milk was a leader that changed the gay community and the perspectives of non-gay people today.

Unlike most people, I was not raised in a traditional white picket fence two parent household, but instead by my very own one-of-a-kind mother. No matter how difficult life becomes for me or how chaotic things become, I have always had one person to turn to: my mother. I can go to her for advice when I’m lost and lean on her for support when I’m sad. She accepts her children and will always love and support me unconditionally, regardless of my life choices. Her compassion for others, as well as the advice she has given me over the years, has inspired me to be a better person. She isn’t afraid to give me a reality check and tell me things I don’t want to hear, because she knows I need to hear them. Even in my darkest moments, she always encourages me to do better and gives me hope. She helps me stay grounded and enjoy the little things in life. I’m at a loss for words when it comes to describing my mother, but one thing is certain: she is one of the most important and influential people in my life. After all, she has given me the most precious gift of all, the gift of life, and she has cared for me since the moment I was born.

Despite being in her late thirties, my mom has a youthful appearance. She is of average height with a petite build. She has straight light brown hair with blonde highlights that falls down to her shoulders and encircles her oval shaped face. Her brown eyes are as sweet as chocolate and as solid as the oak, bringing back childhood memories. Her laugh is contagious, and it can almost instantly lift anyone’s spirits. She is always well-dressed, no matter where she goes. She possesses an articulate and eloquent way of speaking that commands the rooms attention.

As I progressed in life, I became more aware of the difficulties my mother faced. The problems she experienced during her childhood, the difficulties she faced merely to receive an education, the obstacles she had while pursuing her degree, and even her present struggles. My mom didn’t come from money, or power, or anything really. My mom grew up in the Dominican Republic, in a family with very little money. She did the best with what she had been given and made something of herself. She didn’t have the financial means to attend college, all she had was her high school diploma from her school in the Dominican Republic. She did, however, find the means to further her education by joining the military. When you serve in the military for three years, the military will pay for your education expenses. While serving in the military, she met my father and the two married shortly after. She continued to pursue her education while married to my father, but an obstacle in the form of a child was on the way. Despite being pregnant and suffering from terrible morning sickness, she persisted in continuing her undergraduate studies to become a nurse. In the face of all her struggles, which included a difficult divorce, one kid while pregnant with another, she continued to pursue her degree so that she could provide for her children. Slowly but steadily, she earned her master’s degree and went on to become a nurse practitioner. One of my greatest sources of inspiration is having a mother who works as hard as she does and achieve everything she sets out to do. This recollection of my mother’s past motivates me to succeed and achieve all of my life’s goals.

When it comes to disciplining her children, my mother can be quite strict and has no problem correcting us if we don’t follow the rules. She is strong-minded and stubborn; once she gets her mind set on something, nothing can stop her. She is an independent person who does not rely on anyone or anything to make things happen for her. She is a reliable and dependable person who I know will always have my back. Strength does not always imply physical strength; in this case, it means that my mother is capable of overcoming any obstacle and coming out on top. She is sympathetic, understanding, and tolerant, and she is willing to listen to all of my problems with open arms. When I am going through a difficult time, she is compassionate and sympathizes with me and helps me come to a solution. She is truly irreplaceable.

The constant love and support that I receive from my mom makes her one of the most important people in life. I see her strength, tenacity, and intense love for her family in everything she has done for us, qualities I hope to emulate in my own life. I know I didn’t always make it easy for her, but I sincerely appreciate everything she’s done for me.

Oprah Winfrey, an extremely important figure in American society, helped shape American culture and continues to make a lasting impact on our world as a whole. The first black female host of a national television talk show, Oprah produced and starred in ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’. The show, spanning from 1986-2011, aired for 25 seasons. As a media executive, actress, and philanthropist, Oprah is not only known for becoming the first female billionaire, but also for her positive influence on society. Through her show, she used her fun-loving personality, knowledge surrounding business, and rigorous efforts to live a more positive lifestyle. Through these efforts, she became an iconic influence throughout American culture, serving as a humanitarian in her efforts towards equal rights amongst all people, no matter race, sex, ethnicity, or background.

In 1954, Oprah Winfrey was born in Kosciusko, Mississippi. Oprah lived in a household, where she was a victim of sexual abuse. Once she turned 18, she left home to attend Tennessee State University. At college, she started learning about television, film, and radio. After school, she moved to Maryland and hosted a TV show called ‘People Are Talking’. Not long thereafter, she was recruited to work for a television company in Chicago and in 1986, she started ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’. The show generated around $125 million by the end of its first year. The show was played on 212 channels, throughout over 100 different countries, and focused on personal issues that were not commonly publicized at the time, making it unique to anything that was being aired. She focused on the importance of authenticity, through her acts of love and kindness. Oprah consistently explained on her show the importance of staying true to yourself. She stated: “To be authentic is the highest form of praise. You’re fulfilling your mission and purpose on earth when you honor the real you”. Since her beginnings, Oprah valued authenticity amongst peoples in a community.

Additionally, Oprah used her show as a platform to promote social reform and advocacy for her most beloved organizations and societal groups. For example, she encouraged her viewers to contact senators in support of the Protect Our Children Act. Furthermore, she personally testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee in support of this act. Ultimately, the act was signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1993, and was also named the ‘Oprah Bill’. She also publicized her support for charities and organizations such as the Angel Network, the Oprah Winfrey Foundation, and the Oprah Winfrey Operating Foundation. Through these organizations, she gives grants to non-profit organizations around the world. Additionally, many of these organizations promote the growth of women and children around the world by enhancing their opportunities. Through charitable acts such as these, she distinguishes herself as a truly altruistic role model.

Oprah Winfrey became an American icon, winning awards and receiving recognition for her service from some of the largest organizations in the country. In particular, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture recently shared an exhibit highlighting Oprah’s positive impact on American society. This exhibit is called ‘Watching Oprah: The Oprah Winfrey Show and American Culture’. The exhibit provides background on Oprah’s upbringing, her path towards becoming a global figure, and the degree to which Oprah continues to influence the nation. Through this exhibit, the things presented were “video clips, interview segments, movie costumes and personal photographs and journals to explore what has influenced Winfrey and how her work has shaped America”, according to The Washington Post. One part of the exhibit focused on her show, the highest-rated show for 25 years straight, and how that show pushed boundaries around taboo topics. Another section of the exhibit concentrated on her position as an influencer, specifically in regards to women’s rights and issues. The last part of the exhibit showed her involvement with different organizations and movements, specifically in the Civil Rights Movement, where she worked tirelessly to support African American people’s rights. This exhibit illuminates the efforts and accomplishments of Oprah throughout her lifetime in America and her undeniable influence on the US as a whole.

Oprah clearly impacted and continues to influence America today. Oprah breaks barriers through her work, striving to level the playing field for all people, regardless of background, race, or sex. From rags to riches, Oprah represents the American Dream. In fact, she helped create the American Dream, revealing to the world that authenticity and hard work helps people thrive in this country.

References

1. “Winfrey, Oprah”. Funk & Wagnalls New World Encyclopedia, Jan. 2018, p.1.
2. Sykes, Tanisha A. “Oprah Winfrey: America’s Ultimate Brand”. Black Enterprise, vol. 35, no. 12, July 2005, p.28.
3. Winfrey, Oprah, and Janet Lowe. “Oprah Winfrey Speaks : Insight from the World’s Most Influential Voice”. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [US], 1998.
4. “What Oprah Knows for Sure About Authenticity”; www.oprah.com.
5. “Oprah Winfrey Is So Iconic Her Influence on American Culture Is Now a Museum Exhibition”. Yahoo! Finance, Yahoo!, 5 June 2018.
6. Saner, Emine. “Oprah Winfrey: From Poverty to America’s First Black Billionaire … to #Oprah2020?” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 12 Jan. 2018.

Oprah Winfrey is a media giant and philanthropist. Oprah Winfrey has made many contributions and gone through many trials; all of this has shaped her into the amazing woman she is today.

Oprah Gail Winfrey was born of a single teenage mother in Kosciusko, Mississippi on January 29, 1954. Oprah’s mother was Vernita Lee and at the time supported Oprah using welfare. Vernita Lee died November 22, 2018 at the age of 83. Oprah was raised by her very strict grandmother and was beaten regularly. Her family was very poor, and Oprah was lonely. Oprah Winfrey has been through many things in her life and grown up with many obstacles and trials. When Oprah was a child, she experienced many sexually abusive men in her life, who were family members and close family friends, who took advantage and used her body for pleasure. Although this seems awful her grandmother taught her to read before her 3rd birthday. She received positive recognition when she read and spoke out that this passion fueled her mindset into her future career choices. At six years old she moved back and lived with her mother in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Oprah was neglected due to her mother working long shifts as a maid. Her 19-year-old cousin would babysit her, but during this time he raped her. Sadly, he would not be the last to do so. She received sexual abuse from her mother’s boyfriend, until she was 13. Oprah ran away from home and shortly after became pregnant at 14. Her baby was born prematurely and died shortly after birth. She then moved to be with her father in Tennessee. Orpah’s father was a good influence on her and stressed that an education was very important. She began attending Nashville East High School where she became a public speaker and attended drama classes. She was elected school president. She received a full scholarship to Tennessee State University after winning a public speaking contest. She then started her journey into the media giant the world knows her as today.

Many things in Orpah’s life led her on the path to failure but through many countless trials Oprah came out successful and happy. Orpah’s family was so abusive and couldn’t support her so much that she ran away at 13, but became pregnant at 14 and lost her first child. She expanded her horizons and in college became an unstoppable force. She got a job at a Nashville broadcasting center run by white men, although she was set for failure when her show failed Orpah was blamed. She was demoted back to a writer, but she was too slow and caring for the hard life of a reporter. She did not give up she strived for bigger and better things leading to a job as a cohost on ‘People Are Talking’ with Richard Sher. She then received a breakout role hosting a morning talk show and became a household name. She was determined and had her eye on success no matter what was thrown at her.

Oprah Winfrey has excelled in countless ways during her life. Oprah Winfrey created her own magazine entitled ‘O, The Oprah Magazine’. She has produced many films and television shows, and even a Broadway musical. She was nominated for best supporting actress for her role in ‘The Color Purple’. Oprah launched her own television network, OWN. One thing Oprah says: “Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another is another stepping stone to greatness”. This quote shows how she is not afraid of failure and explains how she has come so far with this mindset. Another quote: “The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams”. This shows how Oprah is strong willed and living her best life. Oprah Winfrey is one of the most influential and successful African American females.

Oprah hasn’t lived a peaceful life, but by overcoming all odds and keeping a strong-willed mindset she has overcome all challenges. In my opinion, she is an influential, successful and inspirational woman in our society.

In my life, I have many people who influence me especially in good influences and the most one who influenced me in my life is my parents. My parents have sacrificed a lot in my life to make me lives better. They are my biggest supports and push me to do my best. As I grew up, they taught me the moral and values that I still keep in high standard today learned that to receive respect. I have many characteristics resembling my parents their view becomes mine. The high expectation I put myself come from both parents, who were very good students and know what their children are capable of.

As a result, an influence situation in which one I may find myself- attempting to influence a group of people. They are the one who taught me to never give up and to always keep my head up. They made a person I am today. Growing up with such a strong role model, I developed many of their enthusiasms. They are harder worker and have a good personality and growth up with such a strong role model, I not only came to love the excitement of learning simply for the sake of knowing something new, but I also came to understand the idea of giving back to the community in exchange for a new sense of life, love, and spirit. This to them that I credit many of my accomplishments and successes both inside and outside of school.

My mother influenced my mentality of being very organized yet overstressed all the time. I always got a lesson about the satisfaction that comes of earning something, influenced me to think wisely and pursue godly choices is a daily challenge and appreciating what God gives us and not comparing it to what I give to others and appreciate the value of contentment. Every day she set the example with her words, whether they’re loving or harsh; by her actions, whether they’re kind or selfish; even by her decisions, whether they’re right or wrong.

My father encouraged me to risk-taking and to have a sense of humor. He provided me a broader diversity of social experience and introduced me to a wider variety of methods of dealing with life. He tended to stress rules, justice, fairness, and duty in the discipline. In this way, he teaches me the objectivity and consequences of right and wrong. He gave me insight into the world of men. He prepared me for the challenges of life and demonstrates by example the meaning of respect between the sexes.

The most very important lesson that I will never forget is what doesn’t kill you, simply makes you stronger. Both my parents teach me how to devote myself when I will get challenges, never back down and give up and keep trying until I will get what I want/success, be able to stand up for what I believe in and be my self, I have to treat others with respect first.

With my parents, they teach me these al, things, as I grew up and I feel that I had a better relationship with peoples, co-worker, and colleagues. Another great way my parents influenced me on how to discipline and communicate with others. They gave up many things to put happiness before their own. Without the influence of my parents, I would have no moral and strong in psychologically and emotionally. I would not know how to reach my true potential. They are always encouraged me getting up and trying it again no matter how bad I was if I had the passion to do something they weren’t going to be the one to knock down my dream.

Both my parents together have enriched my life with their passion for helping others. I have seen a hope and life that is truly exceptional because of their example, today I am a strong and ambitious person with good communication with those around me and look forward to helping those in need. Their influence affects the way I live. I believe that my parents have been the biggest influence on me as I have grown up. They have distributed their attributes to me, creating a dynamic person of passion and motivation.

I’ve been blessed to have many important Influential people in my life. Many would point to mother and father which may be true in many factors. Mine is a little different, it was my uncle who molded me into an intelligent, respectful young man, with his tough love, altruistic behavior and unconditional love for his family. Now, I know everything about my uncle isn’t perfect, like the fact that he isn’t very dependable.

My uncle is like a bike with a ‘wobbly wheel’. He lies. If he tells you he’s going to do something for you he may not do it. Or, there’s a 50-50 chance. He always would tell you he’s busy. Due to this, I’ve learned from him you have to be a ‘man of your word’. Also, not to expect anything from anyone so you won’t be disappointed if it isn’t done correctly.

My uncle is, however, a person who wants to see everyone make it. Wants to see everyone happy, and he’ll go to great lengths to help you achieve that. Because I’ve learned not to hate on anyone’s success and to be happy for them because your time will come. If you are patient and put in the work. So, I’ve lived for working hard day in, day out and I’ll never stop grinding.

The greatest of his assets has to be my uncle was a single father to my older cousin. Taking care of, if his family is key to him, I think. Not just family but people in general. He never hesitates to give to anyone. He’s taught me if something is free or not and you see someone in a dire need of it to share with them. I remember one time when I had bought some food and I was walking to my house. On my way, I saw a homeless man asleep on the ground. At that moment, I stopped and thought, what would my uncle do. So, I had woken the man up and said: “Here’s some food for you, I haven’t eaten anything yet”. Grabbing the food, he thanked me, and I went about my day proud of myself. Because of this event each time I see someone in need I give what I have. Even if it’s not much. I also, found that I enjoy very much helping those who need it most.

I know I have been greatly influenced by my uncle, by little he’s given me the insight to use throughout this thing we call life. Things like taking care of your family, altruistic behavior and even the not so good like being a man of your word, rather than lie. He told me that a man does not have to be perfect to be a good man. I will forever carry these life lessons that the most impactful person in my life has taught me.

My older brother has been a critical motivation in my life. I cannot imagine life without my brother. One significant element that sets him apart is his humility. Despite being very successful, humility punctuates my brother’s life. His academic success is not the only point but also his entrepreneurial prowess. A lot of firsts in our family have been courtesy of him.

As mentioned, you cannot discuss my brother and fail to notice or mention his humility. One would expect a professor who has a less mentioned side of entrepreneurship to be a very proud person. When visiting our grandma, I always admire how flawlessly he mingles with the neighbors even better than I do. Maybe he is more sociable. Taking a walk down the street with him, you will notice that they exchange pleasantries with a significant chunk of the people we meet. I always think that the days he grew up contributed to this trait. I hardly talk to anyone who we, for example, went to school with. Socializing seems to have been an ideal trait of humanity then. In the day and age of technology we live in, this is slowly fading.

His generosity and ability to stay young and athletic despite him hitting thirty in the next couple of years is admirable. My brother’s outlook and presentation can be mistaken for a younger college guy who plays for the city’s football team. He is a fitness and fashion enthusiast, something that has enabled him to stay ready and have will sculptured body. My brother has a family of two kids and a wife who, by all means, seems to complement his personality and effort. He often mentions that in her, he found a perfect match. It is a common thing to hear him during family gatherings, saying that he cannot imagine a life without the wife and kids. He seems to draw a significant amount of inspiration from his family. He looks happy and contented with the good tidings that have come his way.

My brother’s academic achievements are not a mean fit. He was the first in our family to get a Ph.D. Without any shadow of a doubt, he is a goal standard from whom I draw my motivation to achieve higher in terms of academic excellence. Because Ph.D. is the epitome of education globally, this means that my brother, together with a few other scholars across the globe, go by the title professor. I have always wanted to join this elite class of scholars whose thoughts and opinions are held in high regard. Throughout my life, I have known him as a problem-solver, a man who would take unlimited attempts regardless of the countless failures that he faces. What fascinates me the most is the fact that, eventually, he emerges victorious.

Him being a family man is another inspiring thing about him. We have been brought up in a typical family environment where our father took leadership positions, and the mother was the critical helper. My brother seems to have adopted this model in his family. The number of kids seems to be a convenience, especially whenever they are doing a weekend away from the city. He seems to have just enough time to do his professor roles, be a brother, a husband, an entrepreneur, a son, and a friend. It is hard to imagine how he manages all these roles in what seems like a perfect balance.

My brother grew up in a time when my parents did not have much to spare. Stories are told of his endurance and perseverance through life. I tend to think of him as a person who made the best of life. He was not always the brightest student in school, but today he is higher than most of his peers. Honesty and morality are a thing that continually guides his life. I have, for a long time, known him as a father figure in my life, teaching ways of being a productive member of society. There was an instance in my early high school years when I happened to be among the last students of our year. His approach to addressing these challenges was inspiring. As opposed to being hard and quarrelsome, my brother decided to take a dialogue approach. The incident has always made me feel free and open to discussing some of my deepest-seated secrets and challenges in life.

Right to a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, my brother is a true icon that has and continues shaping my life. Just as he cannot imagine a life without his family, I cannot imagine mine without my brother. His educational achievements can be seen with the Ph.D. His life achievements range from his entrepreneurial success, family success, and his social and philanthropic ventures. Indeed, he stands as an undisputed inspiration in my life. Whether I decide to go scholar way or the entrepreneurial way, I have a formidable figure to turn to for inspiration. Long live, my brother.