Affirmation: I recognize greatness; RIP Stuart Scott
https://soundcloud.com/ambassadorbruny/recognizinggreatness
I want to take a moment to remember Stuart Scott and the way he did his work; may he rest in peace.
For those of you who don’t know Stuart Scott, look him up on YouTube. He was an ESPN sportscaster who came on the scene with his own style. His signature, “Boo-Ya,” is one that many have emulated.
I remember watching SportsCenter just so I could hear what he was going to say next; how he was going to bring in popular culture into his broadcast.
Now when I say popular culture, I’m really referring to Black culture. He brought a certain swagger and vernacular that I’m sure not all sports fans could appreciate…at first.
As a Black man watching him, I was always amazed at his ability to bring in our culture into his work. In many ways he was building a bridge. He was pulling together cultures in a way that really wasn’t seen before on that stage. Phrases like, “What had happen was…” and “cooler than the other side of the pillow,” not only made SportsCenter fun to watch it also gave others permission.
He gave others permission to be themselves, have more fun and to expand their own personal range. It was always in them, but he made it ok for them to go there.
What about you and your workplace? Are you still holding back? Are you afraid to bring your true self to work or all of yourself to work? Did someone tell you, “This is the way you are supposed to act?” How long ago was that?
You have an opportunity to bring more of yourself to work which allows others to do the same.
That’s what Stuart did. That’s what I want you to do.
I leave you with this quote from The Roots,
This is for all my people who understand and truly recognize; some won’t get it; for that I won’t apologize.
Remember you don’t have to leave your job to leave a mark but you do have to be yourself or what’s the point.
Rest in Peace Stuart Scott.
Signing out your ambassador.
Mike Ambassador Bruny
