What a Ride: My First Time in New York City and the Power of Following Your Heart
What a Ride: My First Time in New York City
“When you follow your heart, you find your freedom.”
By Pamela Speaks
At sixty years old, I finally made it to New York City and what an unforgettable adventure it turned out to be. On this trip, I experienced not just one, but three new places: New York City, Atlantic City, and New Jersey. What a ride!
Speaking at the Long Island Business Center for Women was nothing short of surreal. The event was hosted at a stunning country club once owned by Henry Fonda a setting as beautiful as the women who filled the room. Looking out at more than forty-five faces, I was overcome with gratitude. These women came to hear my story and to be reminded that they too can do anything they set their hearts on.
My message was simple yet powerful: as women, we are stronger together. We can change the world one decision at a time. I encouraged them to listen to their hearts and to trust that inner voice that quietly whispers, “You can do this.” That voice will always guide you toward the life you’re meant to live.
My inspiration comes from my own journey a woman who came from nothing, whose first home as a young bride was a sheep pen. A woman who escaped a fundamentalist Mormon cult in Mexico, came to America with nine children, and built the American dream from the ground up. Through that journey, I learned to heal, to forgive, and most importantly, to love myself enough to do the hard things necessary to create a life of freedom and purpose.
It was an honor to share a piece of that journey through my memoir, The Dirt Beneath Our Door, and to personally sign a copy for each of the incredible women in attendance. Watching their faces light up as they held my story in their hands reminded me why I continue to share it to inspire hope, healing, and courage in others.
This experience in New York was more than an event; it was a moment of connection, sisterhood, and deep gratitude. I left feeling full of joy, inspiration, and appreciation for the women who made it possible.
To my incredible team, Jennifer Raquel, Matt, and my sweetheart Rick thank you for your love, encouragement, and for always reminding me why I do what I do.
And to my readers, I’ll leave you with this:
👉 Don’t silence that beautiful small voice inside you.
She’s been waiting to be heard — and she will lead you straight to your dreams.
With love,
Pamela
Read My Memoir — The Dirt Beneath Our Door
Book Pamela to Speak — Bring this story to your stage
About Pamela — Her journey from survival to freedom