Cheryl Todd is the executive producer and co-host of “Gun Freedom Radio,” owner of AZFirearms Auctions, Pot of Gold Auctions and founder of the grassroots movement Polka Dots Are My Camo. Cheryl answers a few questions about Vera Koo’s second book “Wisdom and Things,” including who she wishes had read the book.
My exterior does not show what I am made of. ~ Vera Koo
Below is an excerpt from Cheryl Todd’s written review of ‘Wisdom and Things.’ Click here to read her full review.
One of my favorite quotes from Vera Koo’s latest book, “Wisdom and Things: Essays From An Unlikely Champion,” is this one: “My exterior does not show what I am made of.” Vera’s quote continues, “Who you are is not just based on how you look or your upbringing. It is determined by your willpower, your work ethic and your persistence.” After nearly two years of a world-wide pandemic-related disruption in our normal lives, this kind of grit, resilience and hopefulness is more important than ever. Now is the perfect time to be encouraged, refreshed and inspired by wisdom … and things.
Within the pages of Vera Koo’s collection of essays, she reminds us that although we must dig deep within our hidden strengths and “Seize the moment, and don’t hold back”, community is also important. Her essay titled, “Why you should surround yourself with inspiring people” is an unvarnished look at Vera’s insecurities, and how she has gained strength from her mentors and other accomplished women. Vera confesses that she is much more comfortable being the student, rather than the teacher. However, because Vera pushed through her initial unease with being in the role of a firearms instructor, in front of cameras on an online NRA television show no-less, she was able to empower other women to learn from her background in the shooting sports.
Vera makes a powerful statement in her essay, “Don’t miss your ‘some day’.” Too many of us put off living out our dreams because we believe that “some day” life will allow us that freedom. The reality is that permission will never come. Waiting will only result in more waiting. Looking back at the unexpected turn that so many of our lives took during the global lockdowns brings into sharp focus the wisdom of Vera’s words. Through her example and her essay, we are encouraged that “If you believe you can do something, you usually can!”
Jackie Baird Richardson is an interior designer, editor at The WON and avid junker. Watch for her design tips and occasional crafting ideas, bringing the outdoors indoors. View all posts by Jackie Richardson
