.140 Jackie McPherson

Over 8 years ago, I met Jackie at my very first TED conference; TEDGlobal in Edinburgh, Scotland. My first impression of Jackie was that she was unbelievably sweet and unconditionally kind. I instantly felt connected to her and ended up spending much of the conference with her and some of her fabulous colleagues who were also based in DC. What I didn’t realize at the time, however, is that the next time I saw (and needed!) Jackie, it would actually be halfway across the world in Bangkok, Thailand.

To put the story simply, Jackie extended her incredible generosity, support and physical space to me when I got sick in Southeast Asia. She took me in after a hospital visit and let me stay with her for as long as I needed to recuperate. This unassuming compassion from her is no surprise to anyone who knows her. Jackie was (is) so hospitable and helpful, making me feel like I had a family nearby when I definitely didn’t and when I definitely needed it most. She was honest, encouraging, smart and nurturing, and she even gave me wonderful recommendations for the rest of my time in the area when I was back on my feet. Thailand holds a very special place in my heart for many reasons, but toward the very top of that list is Jackie’s heart which got me through some tough days.

Jackie, thank you so very much for being such a positive and calming light in our world. Thank you for taking me in and helping me — I genuinely don’t know what I would have done without you and your family. Thank you for taking the time to listen and treat me as an adult when I likely sounded like a panicked American traveler most of the time. Thank you for being so sweet and intelligent and for dedicating so much of your time to making our world a better place. Thank you for showing me a few small pieces of the magical place that is Thailand. I’m truly so grateful for you and honored to call you a friend. Thank you, Jackie, for being you.

-BD