I was miserably shy as a young woman feeling awkward in my skin. And I thought to myself, I could have never done what they are doing. Imagine… dressing to impress and going into a room with 5 people sitting, staring at you from head to toe and shooting questions at you. Oh no,… not from a list of prepared questions, the judges can ask you whatever they want, any subject that comes to mind from politics to bargain shopping.

I honestly don’t know if my contribution was helpful or a hindrance. Beauty to me is so much more than looks. It is a style, a kindness, a warmth and laughter. I felt myself squirming in my own self doubt while growing within me was a new appreciation for the pageant system. The dedication these girls comprise to be leaders creates a full schedule of caring for themselves through diet and exercise programs, donating their time, while maintaining honors in education continually striving for excellence.

And I had to choose? I had moments to rate them on a scale of 1 to 10. Although I was given profiles in advance and could research their platforms, as I was reading about each candidate, I was in awe. What possesses them to excel the way they do? The courage they would have to have. The system seems to promote a poise that I rarely see in young women and I was so pleased to meet these beautiful young influential girls.

It was a new experience and I appreciated the opportunity of being included and being an insider on an event that can often catapult a woman into a career of volunteerism, a system of scholarship opportunities to aide them in their education and last but not least, the role of leadership. The next step for the winner is Miss Oklahoma, I may have to go!