Kiva Chronicles: Chicago
For the past 10 months, we have been operating in a state of suspended reality. For the past 2 days, it has felt more like delusion. We just got back from Chicago last night. We spent yesterday morning at Harpo productions for an Oprah show taping.
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We were in the audience. The show was focused on President Clinton's new book -- Giving. We assumed our seats in the front row. The President and Ms. Winfrey entered to great applause. There we were, in the front row, about arm's length away as the interview began.
We were in the 5th segment. I think that's right. The President and Oprah ushered us through 4 segments of emotional conversation and specials. I could almost touch them. Even so, it felt like I was watching a movie -- however more frightening because the characters could call on you at any time. You better be ready.
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... I didn't make any big mistakes. I was serviceable, not incredible. Since that time, I've replayed the answers in my head, second guessing every word. I'll probably never get the chance to address that many people again in my life. Thinking about it too much can drive you crazy.
She turned to Jess and asked about her inspiration. Jess got emotional. It was an emotional moment. She delivered a heart felt account of how we began Kiva. It was one of the more moving parts of the show.
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The show ended. The President approached us to talk about Kiva and how he could help. He noted that Jess used to work for World Vision and had apparently read our bios. Are you kidding me? Is this really happening? President Clinton is an immensely personable person. He would have stayed all day and talked to every single person in the studio if reality accommodated that. The Harpo people had to remind him to move to the next venue.
Tactically speaking, this will be a big week for Kiva. Watch for the show on Tuesday, September 4th. It's bound to be another order of magnitude shift for our young organization. We will do everything we can to react.
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