October Letter to NYWICI Members

October has always been one of my favorite months. Yes, it’s my birthday month, but birthdays have a funny way of making you stop and take stock—not just of where you are, but of all the places you’ve been along the way.

When I was growing up, I dreamed of being on Broadway. That particular dream never quite made it past the audition stage, but my professional life has taken me on more twists, turns and unexpected adventures than I ever could have imagined. I’ve had the chance to work with extraordinary people, take risks, reinvent myself more than once and build a career that has continually surprised me. I wouldn’t change a thing—and I’m genuinely excited about the chapters still waiting to be written.

But the older I get, the more I realize that the milestones on a résumé tell only a small part of our story.

My greatest accomplishments have very little to do with a job title. I have a wonderful husband, two adult children who are both creatives pursuing dreams of their own, and parents who always cheered me on from the sidelines—and then became equally enthusiastic cheerleaders for their grandchildren.

This will be my first birthday without my mom. And while I miss her more than I can possibly put into words, somehow I also feel closer to her than ever. I think about her every day, and I’m profoundly grateful that I had 56 years with her as my mom. I carry so much of her with me, including the lessons she taught me simply by the way she lived her life.

And then there are the friends.

The ones I’ve known practically my entire life. The friendships we built while raising our families in Westchester. The new friendships we’re making in Pennsylvania. The incredible people who have come into my life through work, blogging and, of course, NYWICI. Different chapters. Different places. Different versions of me. Yet somehow, each has become part of the story.

November traditionally gets all the attention when it comes to gratitude. This year, I’m claiming October, too.

Because when we take stock of our lives, I don’t think the things people ultimately remember most are our titles, promotions, awards or professional accomplishments. They remember how we made them feel. They remember kindness. Empathy. Who showed up when it mattered. Who offered encouragement when they needed it most. Who had a knack for lifting their spirits or simply making them smile.

And that feels especially relevant to this community. NYWICI has always been about careers and connections, but at its best, it is also about women showing up for one another—opening doors, sharing advice, making introductions, celebrating successes and helping each other navigate the inevitable twists and turns.

So this October, I hope you’ll take a little time to take stock of your own life—professionally and personally. Think about where you started, how far you’ve come, the people who helped you get there and, perhaps most importantly, the people whose lives are a little better because you were part of them.

Maybe even start writing down the things you’re grateful for. Big things. Small things. People, experiences, opportunities and moments you might otherwise take for granted.

My list is pretty long these days.

And for that, I am truly grateful.

Warmly,
Beth Feldman
2026 New York Women in Communications (NYWICI) President