Sunday, May 30, 2010

Being Inspired by Others

Marian Anderson has long been an inspiration, as well as the great Eleanor Roosevelt for so many reasons, including enabling this event on the Lincoln Memorial in 1939 and having the integrity to resign from the Daughters of the American Revolution.

9 comments:

Big Mark 243 said...

It is strange that you mentioned the D.A.R., because they recently sent mail to the SFC, who was unaware of their history. Had to ask for 'permission to speak freely' because her Dad had given the group her address for solicitation.

Elanor Roosevelt certainly was a strong woman, a precursor to the dramatic canidacy of Hiliray Clinton.

You know, you are an inspiration in your own right, JB.

Dave Wheeler said...

Judith,

I have always told you that I have learned a great deal from you, particularly about people, events, and works in the arts that I was unaware of. Langston Hughes, Dr. Dorothy Height, James Baldwin, to name just a few of a much longer list. Now Marian Anderson...and the Easter concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. We can learn a lot from history but for some reason never fully seem to do so.

Thanks for the lessons Auntie "J"! You really have opened my eyes to a side of history and works of very talented folks I never would have seen were it not for you!

Judith Ellis said...

Ah, Dave, friendship is bantered around on the Web quite often especially with the advent of Facebook. But you ARE my friend and I appreciate you. We are indeed helpers one to another and your presence in my life over these years has meant a lot. Thank you.

Judith Ellis said...

By the way, my dad loved Marian Anderson and when this Korean vet passed I inherited his collection of many many recordings. There are many of Marian Anderson and one of him playing the piano and my mother singing. It was great to hear their playful bantering. He was an extraordinary pianist and she had a beautiful soprano. She also composed more than a few songs.

Judith Ellis said...

I adore Eleanor Roosevelt, Mark! She was among my mom's pantheon of most admired women and I too have come to greatly respect her. Thanks for you kind words. We inspire each other. By the way, the history of many organizations has been less than stellar. They do often times evolve.

Inday said...

I am a fan of Eleanor Roosevelt especially with all her recorded quotations that ring around the world that inspire all humanity especially Women. She's one fine example of the saying "behind every man's success is a woman."

I haven't heard about Marian Anderson but I will try to do a research and read her own contribution to the American History.

"My Country 'Tis of Thee" is one patriotic songs that I learned when I was in the elementary. Very
very deeply moving and nationalistic.

Opaque said...

Wow! I did not about her. Aunt Judith, I must admit that I love this series - "Being Inspired by Others". Aunt, you share this knowledge with us. You are an inspiration to me! :)

Judith Ellis said...

Oh, my dear, nephew, I am happy to introduce her to you. You are also an inspiration, young thoughtful talented one.

Anonymous said...

Beautiful and inspiring. These are the things they don't teach in History class and should, because its more interesting and relevant than dates that go in one ear and out the other.