Looking back on my childhood, I often think about how blessed I am to have been raised by a father who was a man with strong character, morals and compassion. He was physically strong as an ox and respected by all that knew him.

I was also blessed to be surrounded by strong women who would fight to the death to see me succeed in life. I refer to these special woman in my family as Women Of The Swords. I associate the sword with them because the definition and perception of those who possess the sword. Webster’s definition of the sword is: a weapon with a long blade for cutting or thrusting that is often used as a symbol of honor or authority.

I would like to thank one of the special women that protected me with her sword until the day she passed it forward to the next keeper of it. CJ Poche, my cousin included me in her circle of influence. Although her sword was invisible, I always knew it existed and so did everyone around her. When I was young and did something that was worthy of a smack down from the older kids or even some adults, I knew if I made it to Cousin CJ I was no longer in danger of facing my actions. She would simply hug me up and say “everyone leave my baby alone” while I gave my evil little grin in front of her. Everyone listened. Even the toughest people you can imagine simply walked away after her command. I learned the power of influence from CJ at an early age. She had done well for herself and took crap from no one. She was direct, beautiful, smart and surrounded by people that loved her. She also used her influence for me professionally later in my life. People with influence and authority are able to use it anywhere, so never underestimate them. She made a call and I got my first broadcast job at a Fox television station. She made another call and I became a producer of a morning show in radio. She didn’t crack doors open for me. She smashed them open and gave me the room I needed to be a Rock Star at a very young age. All the training and smarts in the world are worthless if you do not have the opportunity to use them. She taught me to stop fighting the people who want to see me succeed and held me accountable. I worked hard to uphold her name and reputation. We all need someone to make us reflect on our actions and do our best.

Never forget the person with the sword leading the charge for you. It takes honor, authority and unconditional love for a person to give their time, talent and treasure so you can succeed. Thank all the people who helped you become who you are today. Even if you’re not where you want to be. Tomorrow is not promised and you will never be able to thank them enough so do it now. You’ll thank me later. You will be missed CJ Poche.

Victor Young

#LivFearless #Success #honor