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“My Gutsy Story” by Brooke Bridenstine

February 20, 2012 by Sonia Marsh

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Sometimes it takes a Five-year Old

 

One thing to keep in mind: gutsy is relative. I am reserved by nature, I get that from my grandmother, who readily admits it is not necessarily one of the better traits she handed down. Allow me to illustrate:

  • The riskiest activity I participated in during those crazy high school days was forking. Forking is exactly what it sounds like; we stuck plastic forks in the ground of the front yard.
  • I took a job at the first company that gave me an offer because, as a pre-Obama 22-year old, I was concerned about my health insurance. That was a job in insurance administration, not something I ever dreamed of doing, and yet four and a half years later I am still in that line of work. I use line of work because I refuse to call it my career; insurance administration is not my career.
  • I paid off my first big purchase, a new car, in less than two years because I did not want to keep paying through the nose from the high interest rate.

As you can see, I express traits that more closely align with those of a conservative middle-aged man rather than a woman in her twenties. So it came as quite a surprise to everybody who knew me that this past November I spent a great sum of money (a figure I have not totaled yet) to see the musical Wicked thirteen times. After one of the performances, several things were offered as incentives to donate to the organization Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. I made a quick decision to make a sizable donation to go backstage and meet the stars and snap a photo. It was a blast; I was shaking afterwards from the adrenaline coursing through my blood. I saw the show again the next day and actually waited at the stage door to talk to the stars again and have them sign my program and snap a couple more photos. When I relayed the story to my dad, he asked me to send him the photos so he could take a look. Later that week when I was having dinner at his house, his five-year-old son said to me, “Brooke, in the pictures of you with the people from Wicked you look really happy.” Kids, they have a gift for getting right to the heart of the matter. I looked really happy because I was really happy.

If going to the theater and writing about theater makes me happy, shouldn’t I go after that? I had started a blog a few months earlier, after thinking about it for over a year, but I was not committed enough. That moment crystallized what we all know, but can have difficulty executing: nothing will change if we don’t do anything differently than what we were doing before. Now I update at least once a week. And, though it is hard for me to swallow this fact, there is no way to know where it may lead. I won’t be able to see a show on stage every week, but if I want to change the direction of my life then I have to start somewhere. There are going to be more pictures of me looking really happy.

***

Brooke’s Bio

I graduated from Iowa State University with a Liberal Arts degree. I currently work in benefits administration. I have a passion for Broadway shows and want to follow that passion. I started blogging last year as a first step to hopefully making writing my full-time job. Thanks for following my blog

***

Brooke, your story is a perfect example of someone who is following what makes her happy. I wish you all the best in achieving your goals, and keeping that feeling of being really happy, alive within you.

Please share your comments with Brooke, who will be coming over to respond.

***

Do you have a “My Gutsy Story”?

To submit your own, “My Gutsy Story” you can find all the information, and our sponsors on the “My Gutsy Story” contest page. (VIDEO) Submission guidelines here.

Please share the “My Gutsy Story” series with others on Twitter using the #MyGutsyStory. Thank you.

Filed Under: Inspirational, My Gutsy Story, People Tagged With: "My Gutsy Story", Brooke Bridenstine

Comments

  1. Sonia Marsh says

    February 20, 2012 at 9:13 am

    Brooke,

    I think your story will resonate with many who wish to let their passion turn into a full-time career. Thanks for sharing.

    • Brooke says

      February 20, 2012 at 7:46 pm

      Thanks for the opportunity!
      Brooke recently posted..Revisiting a FavoriteMy Profile

  2. Lady Fi says

    February 20, 2012 at 10:39 am

    The journey of a lifetime has to start off with baby steps sometimes. Well done you for getting started!
    Lady Fi recently posted..Of gingerbread and snowMy Profile

    • Brooke says

      February 20, 2012 at 7:49 pm

      Baby steps are my style! I think I’ll try to take some bigger ones too!
      Brooke recently posted..Revisiting a FavoriteMy Profile

  3. barbara says

    February 20, 2012 at 11:05 am

    Never give up your dream Brooke! Once you discover what lights up your world and seems effortless you’ve hit pay dirt. It may take time, but it will happen.
    Well done!
    b

  4. Wendy says

    February 20, 2012 at 12:28 pm

    Brooke,
    I think we can all learn something from you today! Thanks for sharing your Gutsy Story. Good for you for diving at an opportunity. I can’t wait to read more of your blog. I wish you the best of luck!

  5. mike kinney says

    February 20, 2012 at 2:01 pm

    nice job, brooke. (the stepping out, i mean). if not now, when? enjoyed the story very much.

    • Brooke says

      February 20, 2012 at 7:51 pm

      Yep, never ended up on that cruise ship like you suggested, but glad that you seem okay with this path as well!
      Brooke recently posted..Revisiting a FavoriteMy Profile

  6. Todd says

    February 20, 2012 at 3:19 pm

    Great story! I can vouch for your grandma not being a risk taker.

  7. Kristy says

    February 20, 2012 at 3:46 pm

    Brooke, I think the cast of Wicked would be very happy to know that they had such an impact on your life. Keep working toward your dream. More of us should have the courage to do so.

  8. Rise says

    February 20, 2012 at 4:08 pm

    out of the mouths of babes! isn’t that the saying? keep going!!!!!!!! your heart will lead you to where you should be and the journey will be something to share with your own kids some day. love it!!

  9. Barb A. says

    February 20, 2012 at 4:28 pm

    Brooke – “nothing ventured, nothing gained”. What a wonderful idea! Someday I could be reading your reviews of theater productions in the newspaper! Maybe you should just start writing some and submitting them to the media and see what happens.

  10. Pam Thomas says

    February 20, 2012 at 4:59 pm

    Brooke, you have already made the first step by identifying a Passion. The next step is to formulate a plan on what you need to start moving toward your Passion. It will happen if you never give up.

    • Brooke says

      February 20, 2012 at 7:52 pm

      Thank you!
      Brooke recently posted..Revisiting a FavoriteMy Profile

      • Brooke says

        February 21, 2012 at 6:44 pm

        Not sure what I did wrong before! Thank you for your kind words.
        Brooke recently posted..Revisiting a FavoriteMy Profile

  11. Pat says

    February 20, 2012 at 5:19 pm

    Brooke, you have overcome those butterflies in your stomach and acted with courage and determination to follow your passion. What an inspiration!!

  12. Mo says

    February 20, 2012 at 6:45 pm

    Great start toward your dream, Brooke. Forge ahead and never look back. BELIEVE!!

  13. Ellen says

    February 20, 2012 at 8:06 pm

    A link to your blog appeared in my Inbox – from whom???? I wonder….
    Terrific writing – I could hear your ‘voice’ in the piece – well done!

  14. Michala says

    February 20, 2012 at 8:19 pm

    Way to go, Brooke! I can’t wait to read your blog!

  15. rondi says

    February 20, 2012 at 8:27 pm

    Brooke–Wow! Both your blog and your story are BIG steps in the right direction! Go for it girl. You have real talent. I am proud of you.

  16. Jane Rider says

    February 20, 2012 at 8:34 pm

    Brooke–finding your pssion is the hardest step in living your passion. We knew you as a little one–still so timid in the world. How delightful to see from afar your development and intetionality towards discovering and living your passion! You Go Girl!

  17. Jane Rider says

    February 20, 2012 at 8:36 pm

    Dear Booke,
    We knew you when you were but a timid, little one How delightful for you to be ready to find your passion and find ways to live it out! Our best to you and you findg your growing edges and courage to do what makes you your best!

    Ron and Jane RIder

  18. Alicia says

    February 20, 2012 at 9:02 pm

    This blog speaks volumes! Talk about chutzpah! This is exactly why I wanted you to work at QLI. People with passion and a zest for life is exactly what we need more of in this world! Congrats on doing what makes you happy!

  19. Sonia Marsh says

    February 20, 2012 at 9:16 pm

    I can tell Brooke has tons of fans and I want to thank you for supporting her. I believe in taking risks and going for your dreams.

  20. Lisa says

    February 20, 2012 at 10:19 pm

    Great story Brooke. Keep up the writing and good luck.

  21. Dennis says

    February 20, 2012 at 10:24 pm

    Fun times!!! Happy doesn’t speak to the look! Ecstatic does a bit more, but hey he’s only 5 right 🙂

  22. Jennifer says

    February 21, 2012 at 6:30 am

    Brooke:
    I love your writing. I think you should share the story of you getting all “glammed” up for the wedding last year when you were a bridesmaid! You could have been the 6th attendant in the movies “Bridesmaids”!
    Remember you saying, “I’m NOT wearing make-up, they can’t make me, I’m not messing with my hair and then …Bam! It’s time for Glamour shots!
    Glad to hear about your new passion – can’t wait until you see “Les Mis” – you will probably explode with happiness!

    • Brooke says

      February 21, 2012 at 6:48 pm

      Thanks Big Sis!! And yes, Les Mis could have that effect on me!
      Brooke recently posted..Revisiting a FavoriteMy Profile

  23. D says

    February 21, 2012 at 6:33 am

    Nice work Brooke. Be brave! I am very proud of you.

  24. Angela says

    February 21, 2012 at 6:55 am

    Brooke, you go girl. Taking chances is part of a full life, an expression of who you really are. You are more than ‘benefits administration’ or any label, live your best life. Not one with regret for what you did not do.

  25. Steph says

    February 21, 2012 at 7:10 am

    I love your writing, Brooke! Great job, and thanks for sharing this story! It had me chuckling. Wicked, THIRTEEN TIMES, that sounds like a dream come true!!

  26. Erin says

    February 21, 2012 at 8:06 am

    What a great story! How exciting to stumble onto something you love! Don’t be afraid to follow your dreams.

  27. Aunt Ann says

    February 21, 2012 at 8:15 am

    I loved your story, Brooke! I’m so proud of you for taking a leap out of your comfort zone and finding something you can be truly passionate about! I can’t wait to read more…Hope to you see you this summer.

  28. Sarah says

    February 21, 2012 at 8:39 am

    I loved your story and am so proud of you for taking a risk and venturing out of your comfort zone. I hope your courage will rub off on your cousin as I have been encouraging her to make some changes in her life. Keep on writing – you have real talent!

  29. Lisa says

    February 21, 2012 at 10:17 am

    Brooke – I enjoyed your story and your blog! You are a talented writer. Maybe a critic for Broadway shows someday?

  30. Jackie says

    February 21, 2012 at 11:15 am

    Hi Brooke,

    Hooray for you! I am SOOOO pleased you are taking steps forward. It is easy to get into a rut, but not always easy to get out. It sounds like you are doing all of the right things to move yourself forward. Life goes by way to fast to stay in a position where you are not enjoyingit! So go for it!!! Easy day move one step closer to what you want on life! Sounds like you are off to a great start!! 🙂

  31. Bill says

    February 21, 2012 at 12:02 pm

    Brooke, shoot for your dreams. That is how I landed my wife.
    Bill recently posted..“My Gutsy Story” by Brooke BridenstineMy Profile

  32. Sheri McMordie says

    February 21, 2012 at 1:29 pm

    Great Writing Brooke!! I especially enjoyed the link to your show reviews! Good luck with it all! Sheri McMordie

  33. Alec says

    February 21, 2012 at 2:21 pm

    I know a thing or two about enjoying life, and I am glad you are starting to do so too. Keep doing what you like, and liking what you do.

  34. Alberta Finley says

    February 21, 2012 at 3:58 pm

    Brooke, I’m a friend of your Dad’s. Great story I heard from your father about all the shows you went to. James is a very well tuned in (on tomorrow he turns 6) boy. Nothing gets by him. It’s a great thing in life if you can work in a passion field. I just yesterday took a gentleman to work and he works at his passion job and drives here in Iowa 45 minutes to have a job he loves. Hopefully you put out an honest effort to push yourself in a direction that can bring you that much joy. Good Luck

  35. Maggie says

    February 21, 2012 at 4:57 pm

    I really admire your sense of adventure…you don’t know where you’re going but you’re going anyway! And as for seeing Wicked thirteen times, – farout! You made me smile because I know a couple who went to see Bon Jovi in Australia and because they liked the concert so much they decided to go to every single one of them throughout the country and celebrate their umpteenth wedding anniversary at the end.
    Like them I see you have the spirit of a child. Don’t lose it I say. And good luck with everything.

  36. Kristin says

    February 21, 2012 at 6:31 pm

    Brooke-

    It’s all about passion. There is no purpose in what you do without passion. Way to go for your dreams! Although, I have to admit I thought you had a future in event planning/activities director. When you become rich and famous, you won’t retire as “Annual Family Reunion Coordinator” will you?

  37. Jen R. says

    February 21, 2012 at 6:32 pm

    Brooke-
    The story was great and very well written! Eric and I really enjoyed reading it and knowing what you like to do in your free time. It is everyone’s dream to do something that they love day-to-day and if this suits you then you should pursue it! It may be a big step out of your norm, but it may be the one you need that will set your life on a path that you find more fulfilling. Good luck and keep me informed!

    • Brooke says

      February 21, 2012 at 6:47 pm

      Thank you so much Jen!
      Brooke recently posted..Revisiting a FavoriteMy Profile

  38. J and Edie says

    February 21, 2012 at 7:08 pm

    Thanks for including us. What a great story. I have always wanted to see Wicked, but never have. At least I can live vicariously through you.

  39. Denise says

    February 21, 2012 at 8:07 pm

    Go, Brooke, go! Nothing ventured, nothing gained. We’re here for you!

  40. Pam says

    February 21, 2012 at 8:15 pm

    Love it! Great piece, Brooke. Can’t wait to take a look at your blog. So happy for you. It was great to see you this weekend.

  41. Beth says

    February 21, 2012 at 8:55 pm

    Good stuff, Brooke! Made me want to be there with you – definitely a sign of a great writer. I’ll be watching the blog. Keep it up – this just may be the start of something really great!

  42. Megan says

    February 22, 2012 at 3:08 am

    It’s truly inspiring to see you following your dreams. Keep taking small steps and they will eventually lead to big things.

  43. Doreen Cox says

    February 22, 2012 at 7:22 am

    Brooke, I loved reading of your passion to explore, to follow a direction that makes you happy! You go, girl!! It’s not even too late for a 64 year old, right?
    Doreen Cox recently posted..Love the artistic presentation…My Profile

  44. Nezzy says

    February 22, 2012 at 12:59 pm

    Woohoo Brooke, although I am a retired Special Ed. teacher, this is a reminder for me to keep pursuing my passions.

    God bless ya’ll and have an extraordinary day!!! :o)
    Nezzy recently posted..RunawayMy Profile

  45. Sonia Marsh says

    February 22, 2012 at 1:12 pm

    Brooke,

    You have a huge audience already. Go for it.
    Sonia

  46. Mary says

    February 22, 2012 at 2:48 pm

    Brooke,

    Really enjoyed your gutsy story. I am interested in reading more. You have a gift. Keep moving forward with it.

  47. Julie Bennett says

    February 23, 2012 at 1:05 am

    Show up, do the work–you never know what will happen!

  48. Teresa Cleveland Wendel says

    February 26, 2012 at 9:13 am

    Hi Brooke
    You are one gutsy gal! I applaud you.
    I loved your story. It affirms to me what I tell my daughters–be impulsive (and gutsy) when you’re young–and continue to live that way for life. That way, as you age, you won’t get so many weird looks from your friends when you act a little off-the-wall.

  49. Cate says

    February 26, 2012 at 5:00 pm

    Way to go Brooke! Looking forward to seeing more happy pictures!

  50. Elaine says

    February 27, 2012 at 8:42 pm

    Brooke: Wow! I am so proud of you and so impressed with all these comments. Who knows where this will lead. You know I am your biggest fan, but of course I am a bit prejudiced.

    • Brooke says

      February 29, 2012 at 8:24 pm

      Thanks Gram!
      Brooke recently posted..Why Do I Still Watch the Oscars?My Profile

  51. Beth Sheets says

    March 13, 2012 at 7:29 am

    Hi Brooke – Your grandma sent me the information regarding your blog and story. And, I am so happy she did so. I also loved “Wicked.” However, I only got to see it once. Your passion and dedication is obvious. Go for it. Good luck with all your endeavors! Looking forward to keeping updated on this.

Trackbacks

  1. Winner of the "My Gutsy Story" contest for February 2012. | Sonia Marsh - Gutsy Living says:
    March 15, 2012 at 9:49 am

    […] Brooke Bridenstine (30%, 70 Votes) […]

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