Re: Major Thanks! -- Talking Circle Alternative

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Date Posted: Thu, 08/ 7/03 11:45am
Author: KiowaScout
Subject: Re: Major Thanks!
In reply to: Vernon 's message, "Major Congrats KiowaScout!" on Fri, 08/ 1/03 11:55am

>Good job Cindy!
>The newspaper made it sound like you just showed up
>and they gave you the national title. I'm sure it
>wasn't that easy! Maybe when you have some time you
>could tell us what all was involved and what now is
>required AND what your plans are.
>You are now officially a role model and I wish you the
>strength and courage to do the best that you can in
>that role.

THANK you ALL for your support! I so appreciate the faith you have in my work.

The MWA Program is not a beauty pageant. It is to select a public spokesperson for all those who live with a disability. Her role is to dispel stereotypes, broaden opportunities, and celebrate the accomplishments of women who utilize wheelchairs for mobility.

I never enter a contest without knowing that I have the skills or talent to do well. I knew that I wrote well and was an accomplished public speaker. So, I figured that would hopefully compensate for my Indian shape (my extra 20 lbs is all in my stomach).

Even though looks aren't supposed to factor into the competition, I am a realist (most of the time). So, I figured that appearance just HAD to affect the judges decision somwhat. They are human.

Anyway, I went on a diet, got good skincare products, and had my hair styled. I got a few new outfits and a great evening gown, all donated. I was feeling OK about my appearance.

We had to write and present a 2.5 minute platform speech. I wrote a kick-ass speech. I'm still pretty proud of that.

I was determined to do what it to win. I do have a competitive drive (hehe). As soon as I arrived I turned on my proper well-bred Kiowa self (which most mistook as 'southern manners'). I introduced myself to all the women whom I assumed were other contestants. I tried to be as sociable as possible.

After I finished each meal, I circulated the room trying to be polite. All acculturated Indians are raised to show respect by shaking hands and being sociable at gatherings.

I was told after the pageant that everyone was impressed by my good manners. I thought that it was amusing that the judges, board members, and others believed my graciousness stemmed from my being from a Southern state. I corrected them by telling about Indian values and etiquette.

There were two private interview sessions with 5 judges. There were 2 women who lived with a disability and 3 able-bodied men. Since I used to host a radio talk show and give professional presentations, I was comfortable with impromptu questions and answers. I could tell by their faces that they were impressed.

The Executive Dir of the MWA Program is an able-bodied woman. She is definitely a "take charge" person. I worried about that, because that type of person usually ends up hating me. They don't respond well to my independent nature.

She instigated after-dinner mixers. She wanted us to go out onto the dance floor while the DJ played music. Normally, I wouldn't be CAUGHT DEAD engaging in such a spectacle. I view public activities like that as vaguely exploitive.

BUT, there was a method to the madness. I believe that it was to see who would be outgoing and comfortable in an ordinarily UNcomfortable situation. So, I went out there and participated. My personal reason for doing it was to demonstrate that I was a well-rounded woman who knew how to enjoy life.

After I finished the 2nd interview round, the judges actually clapped. I knew they must have a very good impression then.

That night was speech-giving time. I was VERY nervous. I worried that I might be TOO professional and not approachable enough. But, I stuck to my strategy of being a smooth operator, outgoing, personable, and confident about my accomplishments and skills.

I was the ONLY contestant who memorized my speech (that was a rule). I gave it in a very professional and polished manner. I knew it was the best performance of the evening. I received a great deal of praise. Many people were telling me that I would probably win.

I'm a big believer in karma. I NEVER count my chickens before they hatch. I quickly shushed them, saying it wasn't good to speculate about those things. I had done my best, hopefully that would get me there.

The night of the pageant, the ladies were whittled down to 5 finalists. My name was the 4th name called. I was SO relieved. I had done what I said I would do, make the top 5.

Each contestant drew the name of a judge and was asked 2 questions, 1 serious, 1 humerous. I don't do well with silly questions, so I worried. The funny 1 wasn't too bad. The serious 1 was a breeze. I was feeling confident, but not altogether sure.

After the 3 runners up were called, I figured that it was me. I worked on maintaining my composure and being graciously attentive to the 1st runner-up. I was determined not to take away any attention from HER moment, so I congratulated her. I waited for my name BEFORE I looked out at the audience.

I tried not to mess up my makeup by crying too much. It was time to start my new journey. I had to behave the part from the get-go.

It was time to say a few words. I acknowledged and PRAISED the other contestants. I thanked my family and paid homage to Indian people, who accepted and nurtured me from infancy.

I then spent the remainder of the evening having pictures taken and giving interviews. I received marvelous reviews from the judges. It was great.

Since then, it's been a whirlwind.

If you know of any groups or events that would like me to speak. Feel free to give out the following email address:
mswheelchairamerica2004@yahoo.com

Ah-ho!

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