There are so many amazing people on this list, but I’m only going to discuss a couple of my favorites.
First, have I mentioned how awesome John Greene is? Like here and here and here and here and here and here and here? Well, it turns out I’m not the only one who thinks so. This month Time magazine named John as one of the top 100 influential people in the world.
In his bio written by Shailene Woodly (she stars in the film adaptation of The Fault In Our Stars, out June 6, 2014), she mentions a few of the awesome things John does, like best-selling author, vlogbrothers YouTube channel, VidCon, but there really is a lot more. I could write about the reasons I think this guy is cool, for…a long time. However, I’m going to let you see for yourself…as he talks about other people who should have made this list instead.
Another is Pharrell Williams. Isn’t that the guy from that video you post incessantly? Yes, yes he is. Justin Timberlake wrote his bio and tells the world how Williams made him “fearless” after helping him with his first album. Then he writes about Pharrell’s own music.
That’s what Pharrell does. He injects that vibrant energy into the music in a way that you can feel. Whether it’s the chord changes that remind you of another time or the melody that instantly grabs you, you are transported to another place. You smile, you dance, you clap along. His music actually does make you happy. – Justin Timberlake, Time Magazine Top 100 Influential People in the World
I have to say Justin’s got it right. I adore Pharrell’s music because it really does make me happy.
Malala Yousafzai is another on the list, and she is someone who inspires me to stand for what I believe. She has amazing courage, heart and dedication. As an advocate for girls’ education in Pakistan, Malala drew the attention of the Taliban. Even knowing that her life was in danger, she continued in her cause. In 2012 a man came on to her school bus, asked for her by name shot her in the head at point-blank range. She was 15. Yousafzai didn’t let that stop her. Since her recovery she’s gone on to speak at the United Nations and released a book last year. At 16 she was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize.
Okay, so that’s only three out of 100. A lot of interesting people made the list this year, and I definitely recommend you take a peek. I’m still going through the list and all the bios myself, and it just gets more and more interesting. Most of the people on this list inspire me to be more, to embrace life, to take chances, to do what’s right, and to be mindful of the impact my actions have on others. I can’t say I like everyone on the list. Some, I can’t say that I’ve heard of before, but I’ll not forget them now. Who inspires or influences you?
‘Til next time,
Jessica
P.S. There is a distinct possibility of another post coming. Make sure you look for it…or beware…I’m not sure which.
I Love Geekology 101 