The Moth Radio Hour: Inner Compass
Release Date: July 3, 2018
Host: Jennifer Hickson
Produced by: Atlantic Public Media, presented by PRX
Introduction
In this episode of The Moth Radio Hour, host Jennifer Hickson introduces a series of compelling true stories centered around individuals confronting injustices and personal challenges. The narratives explore themes of resilience, courage, and the power of inner strength. Notable quotes from the storytellers are highlighted with timestamps to enhance the depth of their experiences.
1. Phyllis Bodron: Confronting a Predatory Mime
[01:55]
Phyllis Bodron recounts a harrowing experience from 1979 in New York City where she faced harassment and assault by a mime. Dressed in her professional attire, Phyllis navigates through a crowded sidewalk only to be ambushed by the mime, leading to a series of confrontations that leave her feeling powerless and humiliated.
Key Points:
- Setting the Scene: Phyllis prepares for a job interview at ABC, highlighting her vulnerability despite her polished appearance.
- The Assault: The mime's aggressive behavior symbolizes the unexpected threats one can face in everyday life.
- Public Indifference: The indifferent reactions of the surrounding crowd amplify Phyllis's sense of isolation and helplessness.
- Inner Strength: Discovering her pepper spray canister marks a turning point, empowering Phyllis to take action against her assailant.
Notable Quotes:
- “I had just been blindsided, bullied and blatantly violated by a strange man in the street with the approval of hordes of other strangers.” [Phyllis Bodron, 08:15]
- “On that day, I was prepared to die. And I wasn't leaving the planet alone. I was taking him with me.” [Phyllis Bodron, 16:45]
Conclusion: Phyllis's story underscores the importance of self-defense and the discovery of one's "Quiet Fire"—an inner resilience that surfaces in moments of crisis. Her triumph in overcoming the mime's intimidation led to her securing the job interview, symbolizing her newfound confidence.
2. Sue Steinecker: Vixen's Miraculous Return
[21:19]
Sue Steinecker shares her extraordinary journey as a wildlife biologist in the Bering Strait between Alaska and Russia. Her story centers on her bond with Vixen, a small husky, and the challenges they faced after a tragic plane crash during a collaborative wildlife study.
Key Points:
- Cultural Reconnection: Sue's work fosters unexpected friendships amidst geopolitical tensions, highlighting the thawing relations during the late 1980s.
- The Plane Crash: A catastrophic crash results in the loss of several dogs and a Russian teammate, leaving Sue injured and devastated.
- Vixen's Journey: Despite the tragedy, Vixen navigates back to her home in Providenia, embodying hope and resilience.
- International Friendship: The collective efforts of Alaskan and Russian communities illustrate the unifying power of compassion and shared loss.
Notable Quotes:
- “This was theater in the round. And every unsuspecting woman who cut through the crowd became a player, whether she wanted to or not.” [Phyllis Bodron, 17:32]
- “It was like looking in a mirror. And for the first time, this divided Bering Strait became whole.” [Sue Steinecker, 28:30]
Conclusion: Sue's narrative is a testament to enduring bonds and the miraculous return of Vixen symbolizes the unyielding spirit of loyalty and love. Her story highlights the profound impact of cross-cultural collaborations and the strength found in community support during times of loss.
3. Gotham Nerula: A Friendship Forged on Death Row
[36:32]
Gotham Nerula narrates his poignant relationship with Troy Davis, a death row inmate whose case garnered international attention. Starting as a 15-year-old with a burgeoning awareness of injustice, Gotham's journey evolves into a mission to honor Troy's legacy and advocate against the death penalty.
Key Points:
- Initial Connection: Gotham's initial letter to Troy Davis sparks a deep, mentor-like relationship despite their different backgrounds.
- Shared Humanity: Interactions between Gotham and Troy reveal their mutual respect and the personal growth Gotham experiences through their correspondence.
- Activism and Tragedy: Despite Troy's wrongful conviction and eventual execution, Gotham remains steadfast in his fight for justice and remembrance.
- Legacy of Hope: Troy's final letter inspires Gotham to continue advocating for systemic reforms within the criminal justice system.
Notable Quotes:
- “For all four of his execution dates, he refused his last meal. Because to him, it wasn't going to be his last meal.” [Gotham Nerula, 43:50]
- “Remember that even in the worst of times, God will open a door to hope and a window to prosperity.” [Troy Davis, in final letter, 48:15]
Conclusion: Gotham's story emphasizes the profound influence of personal connections in the face of systemic injustice. His dedication to Troy Davis's memory underscores the importance of perseverance and the enduring impact one individual can have on broader social movements.
4. Shelly Wright: Embracing the Moment After Loss
[35:38]
Shelly Wright shares a touching story about her mother's philosophy on living in the present, which becomes a beacon of strength during personal tragedy. The duality of loss and unexpected gratitude shapes Shelly's perspective on life and legacy.
Key Points:
- September 11th Impact: Shelly's mother survives the initial terror of the 9/11 attacks, but the tragedy leaves lasting scars.
- John's Second Call: Three weeks after the attacks, a man named John reaches out to Shelly's mother for support during his battle with AIDS and cancer.
- Living in the Moment: Shelly's mother encourages John to embrace each day, a philosophy that resonates deeply and transforms his outlook.
- Legacy of Strength: John's subsequent success and survival validate the valuable lesson of cherishing every moment, inspired by Shelly's mother's unwavering belief.
Notable Quotes:
- “She said, you know, doctors don't know, they make a good guess. But who knows? You can't live with that kind of death sentence. You just have to live today and then tomorrow you live tomorrow.” [Shelly Wright, 50:20]
- “I think that she lived her life quite well.” [Shelly Wright, 51:45]
Conclusion: Shelly's narrative celebrates the profound influence of her mother's wisdom and resilience. By embodying the principle of living fully in each moment, Shelly honors her mother's legacy and extends its impact to others facing their own struggles.
Conclusion of the Episode
The Moth Radio Hour: Inner Compass weaves together these deeply personal stories, each illustrating the strength found within oneself when faced with adversity and injustice. Through Phyllis Bodron's confrontation with harassment, Sue Steinecker's bond with her dog amid international collaboration, Gotham Nerula's meaningful friendship with Troy Davis, and Shelly Wright's embrace of living in the moment after loss, the episode underscores the transformative power of inner resilience and compassion.
Final Remarks: Listeners are encouraged to share their own stories and engage with The Moth community through live events and social media. The episode closes with acknowledgments to the storytellers and production team, celebrating the authenticity and truth that defines The Moth's storytelling ethos.
Notable Quotes Compilation:
- “I had just been blindsided, bullied and blatantly violated by a strange man in the street with the approval of hordes of other strangers.” — Phyllis Bodron [08:15]
- “This was like looking in a mirror. And for the first time, this divided Bering Strait became whole.” — Sue Steinecker [28:30]
- “Remember that even in the worst of times, God will open a door to hope and a window to prosperity.” — Troy Davis (in final letter) [48:15]
- “I think that she lived her life quite well.” — Shelly Wright [51:45]
For more information on the stories and to attend upcoming The Moth events, visit themoth.org.