Charlotte

I met Charlotte today. Charlotte, a 54-year-old woman on line with her husband waiting to get in to ABC's Live With Kelly & Michael show. While waiting on the two hour line, Charlotte turned to me and started a conversation. Somehow, it led to how she has two children: a daughter who is a freshman at RI State & a son who is a sophomore at Penn State.
Our conversations scattered from teen parties to snooki's boobs. She was genuinely good company. I continued to tell her the exciting news about attending school in Manhattan that eventually led to how I have the goal of working in television. She was so interested and looked at me like I had a purpose. I never saw someone look at me like that.
She said I am going to make it far in life and that I'm on the right path. She wanted me to thank my parents for raising a wonderful daughter. She was proud that I have a head on my shoulders and I make good decisions.
"What's your last name?"
"Coppolino."
"Ok, Ashley Coppolino. I'll remember that and I'll look for you in the credits of movie and television shows. You'll be there, I promise."

We were led into the studio and placed in our seats. The best part about the front row all the way to the wall is that the staff hangs out there. Charlotte was a few seats over from me but kept smiling as if she were a close friend. I turned away and no more than ten minutes later, I see Charlotte talking to the stage manager.
"She's dedicated! She's been dreaming of a job in this field! Sir, I wouldn't just recommend a stranger!"
She then pointed to me.
For some reason, Charlotte has had this crazy impact on me. I went to this same studio a few weeks prior and my mom was trying to get me a job as well, but Charlotte was different. I just met her and she completely understood me.
She hugged me goodbye as she was heading back to Pittsburgh.
"Ashley Coppolino, I'll listen for your name when you're nominated for a Grammy!"
Thank you, Charlotte. If I ever have the pleasure of seeing you again, I'd thank you in person.

-ashleycoppolino