The Question I Almost Didn't Ask And How It Changed My Life | Rita Wilson | TEDxNashvilleWomen

[@jagjr44]

"Success to them was living without fear, was living in a free country." How insightful. And much we take for granted everyday.

[@RitaWilsonOfficial]

Thanks for watching everyone. I hope you’ll be inspired to do the thing you love. It’s never too late.

[@mariedillon1403]

Rita Wilson I'm 68 and I'm taking a big breath in as I'm sitting here asking What do I want.....after 51 years of putting it in a box to look after my family..I'm sure now I'll begin to write and have time for me, thanks to listening to your talk. Thank you and best wishes always ☘️😊

[@rmiddlehouse]

Good for you for putting yourself out there when it would be easy enough not to.

[@PhoebeFayRuthLouise]

What a glorious Ted Talk! I love how you celebrate life! Thanks for the encouragement to ask the question! (What is this song you sang at the end of the Ted Talk?)

[@behirajuarez4990]

Rita Wilson thank you for sharing 🙂

[@beautifulday7528]

Thank you so much! I am one year ahead of you at 64, and am going through similar life changes and adventures. I am very happy for you, and thank you so much for telling your story! This TED talk inspires me to continue being vulnerable and taking risks. Onward!

[@patrickerhardt4834]

I just viewed your TED talk. You said sometimes the universe conspires to make things happen in you life. For the last 30 years I have been involved in community theater as an actor and director. Six years ago while visiting my daughter in central Florida, we paid a visit on this newly remodeled theater in town. I mentioned to the then manager what a wonderful place for live theater. NEVER! Was his response this is a movie theater. Fast forward six years. The city, owners of the theater, were looking for ideas for more activity in the theater. I presented them a plan and am now the Artistic Director of the Valerie Players in Inverness, Florida. We have a full performance schedule for 2021 and 2022 and have been blessed with an amazing pool of talented people. At a young 73 I’m doing what I really want.

[@gunkapoor]

Omg. Amazing

[@lisawhite9256]

So happy for you!

[@missmissy_90]

Rita, You are lovely. This is an excellent Ted Talk.💯 Thanks so much for sharing with us. Much love & respect, Missy ✌🏻💕

[@jackiespinosa4771]

Wonderful. Thats where you were ment to be! Enjoy the ride.

[@missmissy_90]

Oh my gosh I never congratulated YOU. 73 YOUNG? I adore that. Enjoy

[@BlueskyDenver]

I want to be loved and accepted. I want to heal my trauma and meet a healthy and caring partner. I want to become a mom. I want to paint seascapes and live in a beautiful home, and above all I want a life of peace..!

[@echale843]

I pray that you receive all of this.

[@chrismacfly6122]

Two years later I hope this all came true I wish you well and much ❤️ love

[@davidtaylor9944]

This❤ I’d rather know all my hopes & dreams, and never attain one…then struggle to discover what sets my heart, mind, soul on fire to dream..

[@tonyajackson0960]

What a blessing to have a husband and daughter like that. So many take that for granted.

[@bobtreiber8556]

Tom Hanks and family are some of the luckiest people in the world. Rita is an American treasure.

[@chrisrioux]

“I know what it is that I want.” -Oprah This hit me so hard. I needed to hear this. As a constantly indecisive person who likes to consider all of the possibilities and keep their options open, I realize that not ever choosing to truly go after something, all I’m doing is spending my life dreaming, and playing around experimenting here and there, but never fully committing to to what it is my heart calls me to do, because what it it doesn’t turn out the way I dream? Then what will my dream be? But what if it’s exactly as amazing as I imagine, or even better? I’ll only know if I try. Here goes everything..

[@reefglider]

I can totally relate to your comment.

[@r-leanmygirl-gj2kt]

“Questions and Ideas, Don’t Forget them,” …The title of a journal that encourages you to keep the journal with you, and particularly in places where ideas seem to come to you. This is another journal by this author that I use consistently (fairly consistently anyway) You could probably create your own journal or notebook to accomplish this, but I like how this one is laid out.

[@mikafizz1022]

How's it going whatcha doing so far? What're you pursing?

[@susandowd1666]

Mel Robbins said " What if it all works out". I wrote it down and I read it every day no matter what I am considering or worrying about Go do it girl!

[@graceloveshikinganddancing2912]

❤

[@evekiraga3105]

What I have realized what I want is not to live life ego based. To live a centered, spiritual life where whenever I am "triggered" or upset, I ask myself what is upsetting you about this situation. All the problems I have are centered in me. Instead of reacting, I say Bless you, change me. When you practice acceptance, you don't feel resentment. When you identify with others, you don't feel resentment. When you tackle a problem one day at a time, you don't get overwhelmed. When you become solution based, every problem becomes a lesson. And living in today, a daily blessing. Everyone of us has the seed of God (which for me is a spiritual energy) and when I turn inward and connect with love and acceptance of myself, I spread love and kindness, and I attract so much beauty into my life. I speak from experience because ever since I let go of my egotistical behavior my life has changed. I want peace, serenity and love. I can overcome anything with my connection to the world living around me. I become part of it.

[@r-leanmygirl-gj2kt]

“Questions and Ideas, Don’t Forget them,” …The title of a journal that encourages you to keep the journal with you, and particularly in places where ideas seem to come to you. This is another journal by this author that I use consistently (fairly consistently anyway) You could probably create your own journal or notebook to accomplish this, but I like how this one is laid out.

[@louisemartin4327]

❤

[@shariday9849]

The most brilliant and life changing Ted Talk I’ve ever heard. It will linger in me until I find the answer. Thank you sweet lady, for sharing.

[@Snap.Crackle.Pop.]

I’ve been there, thinking I didn’t have the right to ask myself what I wanted because life had been pretty good to me. It seemed selfish. Then as life continued to unfold I realized how mediocre my life had become. So I started asking for more and allowing myself to want more. It amazes me that someone like Rita had similar thoughts. It feels very validating.

[@eyelikeyou313]

I want to feed people good food and help them with their mental health! I want to be a good leader in my community! Thank you Rita!

[@GilPalladino]

This talk needs to be heard by more than just adolescent young girls...there is something all of us can do to change the narrative on this frightening topic. Thanks Mandy!

[@mohrjazzy]

I really admire you, Rita! Thank you for the encouragement to ask, I am a jazz singer. During my childhood days I took voice lessons then pursued operatic music in college and after college switched to Jazz! The stories told in jazz tunes with interesting chords captured my attention. I married and gained 2 stepchildren. My jazz aspirations were set aside to tend to family life and pay bills. I kept up my training and had a summer gig at a restaurant with a guitarist. Fast forward to age 62, and my voice has been silent. I want to make a jazz album. This is what I am doing. I wrestle with my emotions such as am I good enough, will folks want to hear what I want to stay, is this a waste of hard owned money? I'm doing it anyway. This is important work for me. The process of doing this project has so much to teach me. Singing brings me great joy!!! The universe brought me to this talk as an encouragement to press on!!! Thank you.

[@deborl7278]

Please please follow your dream

[@stephaniec.5851]

Good for you!!! Keep working on it!

[@nancyott7486]

Wow!!! I love Rita! What an inspiration. She comes from a family of Overcomers! The pict of her singing is beautiful. Wonderful talk.

[@jesusbandajr.5646]

NO ONE IS FREEEEE..... THE COLOR PURPLE ... TAUGHT ME I LOVE YOU OPRAH

[@Ann-kv1fi]

Ive always loved her. And now I understand why. What an amazing and brave family with love and support. I'm so happy she shared this

[@loissteering8935]

I really appreciated this talk. I wrote a poem years ago titled “To know what i want”

[@faithm9284]

Don't leave with your song still in you! Do what your heart beckons you to embrace. Life is too short to live outside the moment, on hold. You don't need permission, just your passion!

[@MMGARC]

Hello Rita, after listening to you and hearing how you and your family came all this way to have a better life, I realize now, that it's never too late to search my soul and figure it out for me. What a remarkable inspiration you are. I cannot thank you enough for this huge eye opener.

[@amazingheroart]

Wow, Rita…. This wasn’t what I THOUGHT your TED Talk would be about! Im a Disney Artist, always looking for INSPIRATION while I paint, and this was such a deep, personal, powerful, well spoken, masterpiece of a presentation. Thank you for sharing it with us all…… 🙏

[@user-gh2lf1zw3r]

No other celebrity could have created the same empathy that Rita did. Life is too short to be unhappy.

[@madihahshazadi6410]

Vagabond John she is

[@ingridleroux7639]

Not too short; too long.

[@pejuudoinwang7977]

Great question for reflection, it sounds simple but many of us never have courage to ask. It is never to late to asked. You never know what is getting ready to bloom.

[@loriorden]

May you and Tom have a speedy recovery...you are both angels

[@lindastorms5496]

She speaks directly from the heart with such sincerity and inspires through her family’s story and her own serious challenges. She has been able to handle things because she is pursuing what she really wants. It is why I recently left a lifelong financial planning career and now do improv at age 59. Watch this if you want to live your life more fully.

[@londonswe3002]

I just now asked myself that question and now I’m crying. What I want? I want to sing and write songs at my age and get paid for it. Wonderful Ted Talk.

[@batuffolinabianca]

See? You have the same dream as Mrs Hanks here. You asked yourself the same question as Mrs Hanks (oops, Mrs Wilson). Unfortunately you're not married to one of Hollywood's top actors, you don't have a group of top managers like she has, so nobody will cast you in a lead role in a top selling West End musical. This dream is only for those who are Hollywood's royalty. This is my point.

[@nzingahoney]

You're not the only one. 😢

[@HeavenlyLights]

You GO DO IT, Girl ❤ God will make a way and you WILL be happy 🎉

[@MAYWAHITO]

Me too...I want to sing and get paid through my passion...I sang all my childhood....it was the main reason I went to church

[@lindafolk4598]

​@@batuffolinabiancait's a step by step process. Start where you can and work up to it.

[@michelelelliott9804]

Wow you just don't know what nobody going through amazing story of strength to move on god bless you

[@ohhhmindy4380]

Your son needs to play your dad in the movie of your parents. ❤️❤️ I just love your story. All of it.

[@marbill5569]

I am a filioino..i was really amazed the of uour soeech and the way you talk, your pronunciation, and the way you delivered your speech...it is very clear and i love your accent. From Philippines

[@mangoyacho]

Rita - I had to revisit your TedTalk once again in 2022. Your honesty and humility are very inspiring. Thank you!

[@muddyshoes4517]

Subtly powerful 💥🙌 My whole life I've asked myself this question as a way to get through my childhood & pull me forward into a better life than where I came from. After the last few years of changing careers & becoming a realtor, the long hours /really hard work, I've stopped asking myself this question. Really asking myself this question. Thanks for the space to remember the value of staying connected to what we really want. Ps. I'm proud of you Rita for all that you've done, including surviving cancer ❤💛🧡❤

[@albanameta2220]

As an Albanian living in Bulgaria, I didn't expect to hear so much about my countries in this video! Thank you!

[@EvelynMosley-b2t]

Throughout my childhood, my uncle would ask "what do you want to be when you grow up?" Whatever I said I wanted to be my uncle would equip me with the tools to pretend I was that person. For example, one year I said I wanted to be a teacher. He bought me this huge floor to taller than me chalk board. Another version of "what do you want?" I have never forgotten my uncle for the tools he equipped me with to foster my goals in life. Today I am a retired case manager who helped equipped people with mental health diagnosis navigate their way in life to fulfil their dreams of what they want. I am a current author, speaker, and planner of events for women to help them fulfil what they want. Thank you Rita for this thought provoking TEDx.

[@smallfootprint2961]

There comes a time for acceptance. The reality of life is that no matter what you want. It may not work out. Do you live the rest of your life in resentments, or accept what you have and love it. That's the miracle of life. To love the life you've been given, make amends to those you've hurt, and be who and what God has given you. It's glorious.

[@Jkove]

Yes, love your point about acceptance. I think the point of this talk is saying that before accepting what life has given you, one has to accept oneself. We have to acknowledge and accept that we have dreams, we have fears, we have needs and we have wants - things that we deny ourselves, things that we don't allow ourselves to feel, just because we cannot accept who we really are. Once we have accepted who we are and how things really are, then we have a real choice. The choice to take action or to let go.

[@pjhogue1987]

Amen!!

[@silvercinderella4991]

We applaude YOU, Rita Wilson! YOU have given us all 'permission' to seek "What it is we want!" Thank you!

[@kimberleywinterbauer5286]

I watch lots of inspirational videos, but Rita Wilson is the best one ever. Thank you for giving me the inspiration to really ask myself what is it that I want.

[@soonear9185]

One thing is knowing what you want, another thing Is being able to achieve it

[@duongthan8109]

Just wrote on my whiteboard, " what do I want?". Thanks Rita!

[@monicamc1945]

“Sometimes the people in your life know what you should be doing before you do...” yes! 🙏👍🏼❤️

[@anitagee3362]

YES! When I first met my husband to be, the people around me all gave me these insane (I thought) suggestions, & now to everyone's delight I am leaving America SOON to go to SCOTLAND to be with The Man Of My Dreams!

[@tinal.814]

😢😢😢😢😢 When people love you, they see the best you have to give.

[@l6202]

WOW!!!! That’s all I have to say! U have inspired me, @ 61 yrs. old I am humbled by your talk. Thank you, Rita. 🙏🏼

[@TheVickiWagnerShow]

What a great talk. I was listening on my headset while I was walking my dog and didn’t even know it was Rita Wilson. It wasn’t until I got home and saw who it was and I was like wow that’s Rita Wilson’s story? So happy that your dad had the courage to come to America and your mom came back too. They raised you to be a very brave woman. Why anybody would put a thumbs down on this video is beyond me. I’ve been asking myself, “what do I want” for a long time and I just can’t figure it out.

[@robinmarks5638]

This brought tears to my eyes! But oh darn I wanted to hear her sing that song so much!!

[@zapbutton8553]

great story reminds me of my grandparents, sometimes we don't need to look far to see good examples, why don't we look close first?

[@antonellamanca7233]

Thank you so much Rita for this precious gift you gave all of us.

[@emmcatherine1460]

Thank You so much Rita for your honesty. At the age of 64 I want to write short stories and be printed for others to read. May not be great ? yet to have them in print would be a great feeling for me. Never too late is my thought at the minute for anything.

[@lisamontez9401]

Just keep in mind that older people have a lot more life experiences to draw from. So, you might as well go for it.

[@batuffolinabianca]

Wanna bet that if you were married to Tom Hanks and your name was Rita Wilson, your stories would have been already published?

[@camillepotter9580]

Please do it! You could promote it on KZbin too. I just wrote and illustrated a children's book for my 2 grand nieces, where they are mermaids, and found a local place to get it printed. The girls loved it and I know its a legacy I can leave them, my family, and close friends. I am not the best artist in the world by any means, but I am still happy for doing it. So create it. Tell your stories. It may be worth more than you think. And I am 66! And I just may write another one! My good friend, who is a great writer, wrote a children's book years ago but doubted herself because she expected it to be perfect, so she ended up throwing it away. I didn't even get to read it. I just knew it was going to the good. And she regrets it today. So just do it. Best of luck!

[@janevernalia5099]

Thank you so much, Rita! What an inspiring story! I’ve actually been writing songs and stories my whole life, and just this past year started believing I could do what I want. I’ve now been copyrighting book drafts and songs, even put one song up on KZbin sung by someone else...didn’t get much traction yet, but I’m not giving up. Love your willingness to do what you want reminding me to do the same! Thank you! J. V. Lauren

[@batuffolinabianca]

If you were married to Tom Hanks your song would have been at the top of the chart already!!!. But you, like me and 99.9% of the people here are not Tom Hanks wife so... we have dreams but don't see them materialize the next day.

[@huiawalker203]

Thanks for the inspiration from New Zealand

[@lindseysparacino7271]

Rita Wilson's TED talk was by far the most inspirational talk I've ever seen or heard. Thank you!!!

[@SilverQuillTV]

Agree!

[@juliewestover9774]

Yes!!! She's triumphant & powerfully inspiring to me!!

[@anamarie1402]

Yes, indeed. I feel the same.

[@BlessingsfromBridget]

This was the least inspirational

[@cathy1007]

I am just now seeing this, Rita, and what an inspiration you are! You are amazing and beautiful inside and out! Thank you for sharing your incredible story!

[@jamesfrangione8448]

It’s simply impossible to not love this woman! Great storytelling…and a message full of insight, inspiration, and hope.

[@carlettagoodrich-mann1377]

PRSSA continues to motivate. Integrity intellect purpose passion humility. Compassion and resilience’.

[@julierochon5062]

I woke up this morning thinking that I wanted inspiration. I have had this voice in my head for some time now that I need to take a renewed and authentic look at what I want really? It is such a timely and incredible coincidence that I came across your talk on youtube this am. Thank you very much Rita Wilson for telling your story and making me realize that I am on track to get what I want. Julie

[@vestcoat]

Tom is such a lucky man. I hope the two of them stay safe and healthy....so glad they recovered. This talk is very inspiring. Thank you, Rita!

[@karenthompson1677]

What a story, should make a film about it. What an amazing thing to have parents like that.

[@paddawan_]

At the funeral I'd want Tom Hanks to scream "Wilson!!!" But jokes aside: inspiring talk and great stories!

[@wagonstation3709]

What I got from your story was you love music, your parents inspired you, and then you had a remarkable (mysterious) chance encounter with somebody who suggested you be in a huge show, despite the fact that you had limited talent or experience. While your life absolutely falls into the category of extraordinary, it can't be copied. It's a story a little similar to many others, like Ze Frank, where great luck comes to you and you alone. It can't be copied in any way-- he (openly) admits "I can't tell you how to succeed," yet he also gives "inspiring speeches." It seems some have luck "tossed into their lives" and most don't. I've been asking what it is that I want for 3 decades, and I've been unable to go forward, in *any* noticable way-- for 3 decades! Congratulations on finding success!

[@carolyncusson7978]

Rita, greetings from Vancouver Island, Canada. Your talk came up on my screen happenstancially--when I thought I was logging into another video. But what a gift! Your talk touched me and has given me serious food for thought at a time in my life that I'm at a crossroads. Thank you so much and God bless! x

[@dirkscholten9995]

Hear hear! How are you doing?

[@lauriebriscoe6983]

Thank you for your note I am struggling at 63 years old! This talk helped and seeing your Canadian self inspired me too . Thanks Laurel London Ontario Canada xo

[@Soumeznew]

One of the best speeches that I have ever seen, you're full if life your speech gave me a wonderful strength that I was needed this days

[@SpecialgiftsLA]

Hi Rita, I had no idea of your background...wow..It made me reflect about my own story..I'm now 46..live with my parents who are born in Iraq..I'm now since January 2020 my Birthday month..I want to do what I really want. ..I'm allowing myself to ask this question..Over and over...til I reach the place I want ..It is to write ..to sing..to design ..About a month ago I came across a book in the library ..Saw Tom Hanks..title 'UNCOMMON TYPE' NOW READING..then..heard you guys got virus...So I wanted to wish you a full and speedy recovery..all this talk surprises me because I can't believe how much of this is leading me to realize my dream. RITA..One day at a time. .guys..I love you. TOM ..YOU ARE MY FAVOURITE ..Thank you.....

[@cortreliusdaniels2007]

Shavon Smith, you executed this message. Transparency and a pure heart of giving not for recognition, but out of love. You blessed me beyond measure on this message!❤️❤️😢😢

[@micheleb233]

Ok. So thank you first of all for such a beautiful, amazing story! I am telling the world what I want. I want to finish my story with grace and joy about a Chihuahua named Bernadette. I want my story to become an animated musical. I want my story to bring connection and comfort to many.

[@clarkleakins879]

I saw Rita opening show for Chicago Transit Authority at the Mountain Winery in Saratoga California SHE WAS GREAT!!!

[@john24108]

Listen to the feelings that cast doubt on your need to suffer.... May you realize dreams greater than those you've dared to have.

[@bradleyerasmus8774]

What an incredible story! Thanks for sharing it, Rita!

[@celticphilomena]

So inspiring thank you. I am going for it at 65. It’s been a long time coming. Its about following your heart and doing your passion. 💕🙏

[@abetterme6383]

Wonderful! Right behind you.

[@luv1yLynn]

Tell us what it is!

[@celticphilomena]

A one woman show, thanks for your support Barbrette 🙏

[@jdfi1403]

Everyone should listen to Rita's speech. I don't always endorse speeches!! I also have been extremely impressed by what my Parents endured. I have passed their suffering and success in 'the New World' to my Children. I so appreciate what our parents did for us. I really like the connection of your Parents and the inspiration of your success. I really liked singing. Maybe I should take some lessons. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@wendydillman6664]

Wow! Stumbled across this while trolling KZbin. I know what I want. I’m 62 and have wanted it since I was 5. Thanks for the push I needed to go for it.

[@SpecialgiftsLA]

Go get it Wendy..I also just stumbled into this .But I think the universe picks up on what we need ..to answer that question..I recently started to want to do what I want...I'm still asking and things are coming...

[@victoriaogletree4669]

What a terrific story, the hills ARE alive with the sound of music. You were scared, but you went. Me? I am designing fabric I see that no one else has. We can create the unseen. My Bishop says; it's not the size of the dog, but the size of the bite in the dog. Even the dog asked: "What do I want? Health and long life to you and yours. Thank you. P.S. Bishop T. D. Jakes stumbled on: "Woman, thou art Loosed".

[@andreafrick00]

OK except you're 62 so stay home and stay safe. Stick it out for a year, get a vaccination and a make a good plan. Then go live your dream!

[@wendydillman6664]

Andrea Frick I am staying @ home. No need to assume that I’m not.

[@luv1yLynn]

What is it? Do tell!

[@dolorespallares2735]

At 29, sitting at a sand dune, I decided not to go home before nowing: ‘what is it that I really need.’ The next week I started a 3 year study, two years later an other job and achieved my goal 5 years after that. Ten years later the same question got my answer and this became reallity 5 years later. This braught me 25 years of a fantastic life in health and freedom. So, she is right: tell the universe and it will take care of you in realisation.

[@Atheria444]

Great talk, Rita. At 53 I don't even know what I want anymore...sigh. The only dream I ever had was to be an actor. I moved to Los Angeles in 1985 and pursued my dream...but it never worked out. I let that go years ago. I don't have passion for anything at this point. As you experienced, life is fragile, so it's time I did more introspection. And, we are all very glad that you beat cancer and that you and Tom are well from COVID19!

[@trishataylor2488]

I too wanted to be an actor,dancer and singer when I was growing up. My parents continually squashed those dreams. Told me I was a "dreamer " and that the *world was my stage ". Rita had a strong loving and encouraging family with a husband who was already a successful actor. Dont tell me he didn't seek out others in the industry to help her out. Seems like money wasn't an issue either to just whisk off to NY. I wonder if she ever asked God what HE wanted? And her saying "it's never too late".....I am now 71...don't think they are hiring any time soon😄

[@robingaynor9911]

You are making me cry! Such bravery. Thank you.

[@lizraper3667]

Rita comes from a formidable family

[@reefglider]

What a beautiful soul. I wish you good health, and thank you for sharing this inspiring story.

[@charlakiley9994]

With so many struggling families this is an answered prayer! You're so talented wishing you all the best! Hugs from Texas!❤ Btw my brother committed suicide when i was 11 .

[@lindafolk4598]

Heartbreaking, traumatic, have you been able to heal?

[@mauraswanson5052]

Honest, smart, funny, compelling, vulnerable, inspiring and deeply poignant. Brava

[@vanessapetrea2490]

What a lovely talk you’ve given here! Thank you so much! Your parents are amazing!!!! And so are you! Blessings BE🙏🏽💜🙏🏽

[@lucydych9474]

Ancestors who came to this country were so strong and courageous!!

[@sharishort]

This is so incredible. I teared up when you say .....music!!! Ugh I so feel you.

[@jesusbandajr.5646]

NOW SHE KNOWS MY PASSION I LOVE YOU SPEAKER

[@isabel1812Ao]

OMG. Im crying. What incredible stories of courage. Thanks for sharing! I love your music.

[@maryreisinger7980]

What an inspirational talk, Joyce! My brother, Paul, keeps praying for a living kidney donor. He has stage 5 kidney disease with lupus. Your "Ted Talk " gives me hope!

[@DianeKieckeRealtor]

What an inspiring talk, thank you Rita! You are an amazing woman and you’ve given me the inspiration to figure out what it is I want. Your talk was truly life-changing for me and I hope you continue to share your story and motivate people.

[@חוהזעפרני]

תודה ריטה! גם אני במסע הזה של חיפוש אחר הדבר המיוחד הזה. נתת לי כיוון והשראה. גם בטוב וגם ברע, התשובה לשאלה "מה את רוצה?" נותנת משמעות וחוזק ותקווה. שנזכה כולנו להיות שם. אמן.

[@marciajacobs9198]

Omain! May we all find our courage

[@MelesaEFary]

As I read the comments, most are very positive, and then some are not. I think as a woman and I am the same age as Tom Hanks, (62) I was raised to live my life as a housewife like my mother. I was taught to darn socks and I do beautiful flower arranging as well as I am a great gardener. I am a delicious cook and I keep a beautiful home as well I was taught to always look great when my husband came home and to cater to him. I remember in school being asked what I wanted to do at 15 yrs old. I wanted to be a teacher. Well because Viet Nam had produced so many teachers, there was a glut on the market. So I went into the health field like my big sister. I did ultrasounds. I was a great wife but 16 years into it he left. I am retired but feel an emptiness inside me. But I asked myself this very question about a year ago. I am going to start some art classes soon. I do not expect to be a Da Vinci but I do expect to feel free and joyous to be doing something for me. I think that is the message. To find your passion and follow it and love it. To be willing to take a choice and go with it with no expectations except to enjoy myself. I have never taken a class for fun in my life and I taught clinical ultrasound in conjunction with UCLA at a Los Angeles County Hospital for many years. I am educated but my entire life I have spent raising a family, taking care of others, and I never thought about what I wantedjust for me. If asked I would have said to be a loving mother and wife and a great technologist. It is wonderful that Rita was given such great opportunities but I think her message is about letting yourself open up and finding something that excites you and allowing yourself to just go with it. It's not about how successful you will be. The success is in the joy of finding yourself. And if you do find you are sucessful by money or fame, it is because you asked yourself this question and went with it! But don't go into it expecting anything except self satisfaction and growth in yourself. Everybody is unique so comparisons shouldn't be made. And the thought of singing on Broadway would terrify me!!! Wouldn't it you?? Thank you Rita and I get it. To just ask the question is not an easy thing but until you ask you may never have a dream to follow. Best wishes to you and Tom and may you both heal and come home real soon!

[@JuliaFrancisEmilyLouise]

Melesa E. Fary thank you for your words, they are important

[@mbrights3158]

Melesa E. Fary Beautiful words... Thank you for your very inspiring story and perspectives.

[@VR4Hope]

Did you take the art class? How was it... loved reading your reply... I’m making a sloppy, winding, creative route... sort of stumbling and bumbling my way to my dream but I’m taking steps and giving it a voice. I find it terrifying which is another word for giddy excitement I think... lol... sometimes I tell myself that age is a factor for me yada yada... but who am I kidding. A lot can happen in 3 years and 5 years... may as well make them count! Life is fragile and we all come in terminal. Positive love and energy on your way to your inner artist! ☺️

[@jennylewispixel]

Thank you Melissa, for sharing your story. I am so glad that you have found something that you want to do that will make you happy and bring you Joy for yourself. I think you fully understand what Rita was talking about in her TED Talk. I wish you much success, but more importantly, great happiness in your art classes! You have worked hard for your family your whole life now it is time to focus on what you want. Sending love and I respect from Florida, Jenny

[@boojay111]

thank you Melesa, I have always wanted to sing but been put off most of my life or should I say I have listened to the negative words that certain people have said. Was asked to be head chorister in the Cathedral but ran away in fear and am still running. I have written down some of your words next to a sketch I did earlier today, strange how things link. I am an artist and have been for 30 odd years but there is the 'hole in the soul' that I cannot fill. Keep safe and keep painting. Love from the UK x

[@messingerbreed]

Thank you. Iam at a crossroads in my life and know only half of the want and you rocked your road as your parents have, Blessings, Darlene

[@billwong6077]

This talk is amazing! Looking back at my own career, "what do I want?" is a question I ask ever so often. I will say this question popped up at least once every year for the last 10 years. Each year I asked myself this question, each year the answer is clearer than the year before. Sometimes finding the answer to this question will lead to clarity questions I will ask my mentors about the specifics of what I think I want and what I may need to get there. Part of the actions that happened after- I got on 2 TEDx talks myself. So, I am happy to incorporate asking myself what do I want at least every year. I believe that will help me in building on my professional successes.

[@k.g.m.254]

She is exceptional at public speaking....if only ALL public speakers were as interesting to listen to 👏👏👏

[@tanishanaidoo6345]

Heaven have mercy! I needed to watch this. 🙏🏽✨❤️🙏🏽❤️ So grateful this popped up on my feed!

[@michalsarusi9915]

Thank you Rita for sharing your story with us, you gave us an inspiration not to give up and live the life we want❤

[@carolelliott2691]

That was brilliant.!!!! I want to be able to stand up and talk in front of an audience . to make a difference in someone's life.

[@marcob9124]

How about starting street preaching/talks......

[@dendemano]

It's easy, just call your agent, or get advice from your acting buddies. If they're out of town, don't worry about it. You can catch a flight to New York or wherever they happen to be. Oh yeah, take your family with you as it's at short notice.

[@ryan3442]

@@dendemano That’s the spirit!

[@kimshephard3852]

So Glad I found this talk! Thanks Rita, for Sharing and Conjuring up our thoughts of seeking what can fill us with joy and Passion !

[@cindyclark6605]

Lovely story. Thanks for sharing. I just had a bi-lateral mastectomy as well. Still getting used to the change and it has been difficult. Prayers for your health and long and happy life.

[@LindaPongetti]

Cindy, my heart goes to you but you are still you except wiser. The change is a lot and it will be tougher at times than others. Live each moment as a new one, and keep moving forward. ♥️

[@siat11]

I can relate to your speech Rita Wilson. My parents came to Canada from Greece in 1960 to get away from hard time, poverty and war. They risked a lot to make a better life for us. I grew up not needing much. I am grateful to the risks my parents took. They enabled my sisters and myself to have more options and a better childhood and life. The things they did not have, through their hardships and decisions, we were able to to have.

[@macilak2]

It's kind of true for most of us though, whether or not our parents ended up in Canada or America. People live great lives in Europe, too. But yes, there's less chance that they going to be actors in Hollywood.

[@AntoinetteMPetty]

Rita, you brought tears to my eyes. I was afraid to ask myself that question. I'm asking myself the question and taking the steps to follow my dreams. Thank you from my heart😷😷😷😷❤❤❤❤

[@indulge55inspire]

เป็น speech ที่ดีมาก กระตุ้นความฝัน ความมุ่งมั่น 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@wholesomegirl2889]

Rita Wilson, I just love you! Genuine, talented, good hearted beautiful inside and out. Blessings and fast recovery to you and Tom. Sending you lots of positive thoughts and LOVE. ❤️🙏🏻☀️👍🌈🌍♥️

[@ktnwill]

UPDATE! JEM's is closed today. New location is Ben& Jerry's at Evergreen Walk. Our friend Reader Ryn has entertained us with her creative caches and enjoyable caching events throughout the area. She'll soon be heading back to her home state of Texas, and so this "unofficial" cache event is a sendoff gathering at Jem's, an outdoor venue with great ice cream and smoothies. Please wear your mask and practice social distancing. And don't forget to bring some travel bugs for Katy to take to Texas!

[@wholesomegirl2889]

@@ktnwill ?

[@Zhamour]

Incredible! So organic, a sweet auto-reflexive narrative, historic-meets-now, meeting a over a cuppa of two old cronies, a wonderful experience yet powerfully life-shifting: 'what do I want' !!loved it!

[@anneherzog8753]

Wow, very engaging and positive story from beginning to end. I know it is more than a story, it is about your journey and going outside your comfort zone. I am about to turn 60. Already recreated myself numerous times. Still, I am ready for the next chapter! Thanks for sharing.

[@EmARosebud]

Gorgeous message!!! Thank you! 🥰🤗 THIS is exactly why I’m still up around 4 am…you’ve touched the very depths of my heart ❤️, soul, my Truest desires, passion, dreams!! I’m going for it! I Have To!! Maybe see you on Broadway, or the big screen?!! 🎥 I can’t wait! Am I there yet?!!! 😉🥳🕺😇🥰☀️ You are Lovely. 🥰☀️

[@людмиламаксимова-в2э]

Все правильно, человек рожден, чтобы осуществить свою главную мечту в жизни. Но для этого надо иметь железную волю и быть бесстрашным человеком. И, конечно же, жить в свободной стране. У Риты всё получилось. Я очень рада за неё. Пусть ей сопутствует удача.

[@lyndamcnally6263]

What a wonderful speaker. And speech. Thank you Rita.

[@aremjun7567]

There are tons of reason that I can be all sarcastic. But, I’ve chosen to remember your question instead. What do you want. Thank you so much.

[@parellano100]

Sarcasm is always welcomed! 😃

[@iamphoenix5376]

Lucky lady. She deserves the world!