I’m standing in the Hilton lobby, and on a table, I spy a copy of Marquis Who’s Who Insight Magazine.
And who do I see on its cover but Connie Goodman-Milone.
Yes, SFWA’s own past president, Connie Goodman-Milone.
So I pick up the mag and think, “Wow, that’s a great photo of Connie. Look at her smile.”
Then under the photo, I read Connie’s quote, “Passion is a part of my work as an activist on social justice. environmental, animal welfare, wildlife and human rights issues.”
“Wow, that’s a plate full of activities.”
And as a member of SFWA, I’ve known about Connie’s passions for over 12 years.
I’ve known her passion and talent for writing poetry and reading her haikus aloud.
I’ve known her passion for speaking out on social issues from her letters to the editor of the Miami Herald.
I’ve known her passion for the dying and their families as a hospice volunteer.
I’m hooked and now I’ve got to read the whole story.
So I turn to page 8 of Insight, where Connie tells the magazine’s readers what makes her tick and why she is so effective in her role, “I have compassion and I care.”
Wow, my two favorite “C” words.
Yes, Connie demonstrates her compassion for our organization when sheis our community relations director or when she directs the Junior Orange Bowl Creative Writing Contest or when she acts as a judging coordinator for the Miami Veterans Creative Writing Contest.
Connie truly cares about the SFWA.
And then I realize what Connie is.
She’s a true believer in “Tikkun Olam“, repairing the world.
She understands that it’s her duty to make the world more just, peaceful, tolerant, and equal through acts of charity, kindness, and political action.
And she does it all that with a smile on her face.
So, Connie Goodman-Milone, thanks for making SFWA and the world a better place.
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