Disclaimer: This is not an egotistical, feministic soliloquy, the intent is purpose. Three years ago I had a conversation with the beautiful @karencivil, I’ll never forget her words to me. "I've had so many people steal from me my whole life but now I know that no one can ever take away what I built because no one can move like me in this industry." I didn't understand the significance of Karen’s words to me until events I’ve experienced in the last year. When you have fallen to the bottom and still find a way to carry a dream, you become the only person that can tell yourself that you are able to complete the task. I'll even take it a step further and address the heart of my situation because I’ve dealt with a lot of men in business. Women, some of the most powerful men don't wake up and tell themselves they are going to lose today, how do I know? Because I've been around them, so why should you? Allot of wealthy, influential men haven't experienced purpose-filled women who aren't ‘gold-diggers or groupies’. Point blank, they aren’t used to dealing professional women. The culture has trained them to understand the mindset of the lady after his money. So It's a foreign concept, it's different, and often times women like myself, take the heat for their insecurities. A great deal of my career has encompassed providing my services without compensation, accepting opportunities for experience and exposure, and helping to expand other’s career by packaging their brands and helping to market who they are attempting to become. Over the course of time, I’ve endured the belittling of bosses and elders, but still gave respect and offered the best work ethic to these individuals. I have chosen to be last for the sake of protecting another man’s ego. I’ve seen my concepts stolen and watched my ideas presented on national stages- such as magazine covers- without receiving the credit. My work has been duplicated by some of the best in the industry. In the midst of it all I've maintained a smile while supporting those I believe in along the way. I do this because I’ve learned by choosing a non-conventional lifestyle, these things are apart of the nature of the business. I received a voicemail a few weeks back that said , ”Continue to give people's dreams and talents light through platforms and hope.” I say to that, “I will, but it takes someone who isn't afraid of their story and dreams.” As I've grown, I have gained a clearer understanding of the game and become way more comfortable with my purpose and talents. I find myself being called names on opposite ends of the spectrum…such as selfish, confident, demanding, and ‘too into myself’. When I hear these things, I think to myself, “No, I’m just not allowing myself to be taken advantage of because I know and understand my worth.” Humility doesn’t translate into meaning weak or conforming to what you feel is right. Humility is being strong enough, kind enough and loving enough to deal with the cards that were given with upstanding integrity and morals. Humility is the only way I know to express myself and still be able to maintain my fight every morning, while over looking the opinions and criticisms of others. I know and understand a story is being written…She is. Reesy Phillips | @reesyphillips
