Elizabeth Edwards Discusses Her New Book At The National Press Club

Elizabeth Anania Edwards

As many of my readers know, I’m a North Carolina girl. Most of my readers know I’m a Republican, though perhaps a non-traditional, moderate, compassionate conservative one. My sister is on the other side, but it’s all good! We are very different, but have both found our way to give back. I do a lot of charity work, and she works as a lobbyist for Bread for the World. Several years ago, she worked for North Carolina Senator John Edwards.

Over the years, I have really been moved by the strength and grace that Elizabeth Edwards has shown through the loss of her son, her fight with cancer, her time on the campaign trail, and most recently through the public discovery of John’s extramarital affair. She has been through so much. So when my friend, Sanam Toosi invited me to the National Press Club to hear Elizabeth Edwards talk about her new book, Resilience for the Wharton Club, I really wanted to attend. But I’ve been sick and managing several events this week, so wasn’t able to attend.

I am blessed to be invited to many more events in Washington than I could ever hope to attend. As much as I am a “people person”, I truly treasure my time alone, and do not like to attend more than two or three events per week.  I guess if all I did was go to events, it wouldn’t be that bad, but when you are working during the day, it can become burdensome. Since I’m sometimes hosting an event or two in one week, this means that I am very particular about which events I choose to attend.

Anyhow, I really hated to miss the Elizabeth Edwards event, so I decided to try something new. I asked Sanam to share her experience with me and my audience. I hope to do more of this in the future when I feel it’s something about which my readers would like to hear.

Please let me know your thoughts on this, and if this is something you’d like for me to continue.

- Miss A

On Thursday, May 21, 2009, Elizabeth Edwards discussed her new book “Resilience” at the National Press Club.  The event was slated to start at 6:30 pm, however, at 6 pm the spacious room was starting to fill quickly.  I spoke with a few people regarding their interest in attending the event.  

Audience member interest ranged from learning more about Elizabeth Edwards rather than the publicized incident, as well as information that was not been covered by the media and curiosity about Ms. Edwards’ intention for writing the book and conducting this book tour.

Regardless of guests’ reasons for attending the event, everyone was very excited to be there.  Ms. Edwards started with a few opening remarks.  One theme that stood out was the notion of accepting life and not going back to that place.  She seemed to want the audience to realize the importance of dealing the current issue and not trying to hold on to the past.  I think this idea helped her deal with several life issues, which are detailed in her book.

Ms. Edwards read a passage from her book, Chapter 1  titled, “1990”.  This passage detailed a heartbreaking incident regarding her father. He was a healthy man who ended up in the hospital. The doctor told the family that he was brain dead.  Ms. Edwards did not give up and her father, and he recovered and ended up living until 2008.  As she was reading the passage in a poignant voice, the audience could feel the various emotions such as: sadness, pain, anger, and determination.  The room was completely silent as she read excerpts from her book.  I felt as though she was talking to me directly and sharing her pain; thus dispensing her wisdom.

Following the reading, Ms. Edwards answered several questions ranging from her political initiations to lessons she has learned.  Even during questions regarding her husband’s infamous affair, she handled herself with grace and aplomb.  She kept the answers short and tried to keep the focus on her strength, which helped her through life events. 

The event concluded with a book signing.  Many attendees stood in line for up to 45 minutes.  Individuals who were waiting in line seemed very happy that they attended the event.  They really appreciated Elizabeth’s vulnerability, her strength in literally being an open book.  Even though Ms. Edwards is still battling cancer, she exhibited great energy.  I was one of the last people in the line and she spent a couple of minutes speaking with me, as well as posing for many pictures.  I am looking forward to reading the various vignettes of her life and hopefully taking some life lessons from each one.  One last thought from this event that I took to heart  was her message regarding early detection and receiving your annual medical exam.  To all individuals reading this blog, please make it a priority to schedule your annual exam as well as reminding your loved ones to do the same.