The Miss Universe Mess

It can only be called “The Miss Universe Mess of 2015.” By now the entire world knows of the embarrassing and awkward moment Sunday night when Steve Harvey, host of the Miss Universe pageant, misread his cue card and mistakenly announced that Miss Colombia was the 2015 Miss Universe. As soon as Harvey realized his error, he walked to the front of the stage showing deep emotion and announced his mistake. With his next words, he took full responsibility for the mix-up. He held up the card so all could see that he had the correct information. It was a terrible moment for all as the crown had to be removed from the head of Miss Colombia and given to Miss Philippines, the true winner.

The story has been covered by all the media. It has been in print, online and a major topic on social media. Everyone has an opinion, and they are as all over the map as the list of contestants. Some people find this event amusing and others find it tragic. Blame has been placed on Harvey—some people even suggesting that his lack of experience as a pageant host was the cause. Others are adamant that poor design of the infamous cue card was to blame.

Three people’s lives were changed Sunday night. Whatever side you are on regarding this incredible snafu, one thing seems certain. Steve Harvey deserves praise for his instantaneous response and his sincere apology. His actions and those of others bring to mind the words of Theodore Roosevelt:

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”

Hire Lydia to work with your staff to improve customer service and employee relations through the use of those priceless and often over-looked soft skills called manners. Lydia is the “unstuffy” business etiquette expert who helps individuals and organizations add the polish that builds profits. We’re talking about your bottom line here.

Since 1996, countless people have benefited from her wisdom through keynotes, seminars and conference breakout sessions.  Her Southern charm and sense of humor have made her a sought-after speaker and consultant.

Based in Savannah, Georgia, Lydia is available for national, regional and local speaking and training engagements. She has suitcase; will travel.

Contact her via email at lydia@lydiaramsey.com or call 912-604-0080. Sign up for her free monthly newsletter and visit her website, lydiaramsey.com