My friend recently posted a note on facebook listing people
in her life that she found inspirational. I thought it was such a great idea I
have blatantly stolen it for a post. The
order does not relate to when I met you, nor is it anything of importance. Feel free to skip down to your name or read
through them all and wish these people were in your life too because they are
awesome. This list is far from
exhaustive so please don’t be mad if you aren’t listed here.
Mom- Okay, so I know
I said the order doesn’t matter but in this particular case it does. You were
the first person I ever knew and one who has supported me through everything
possible in life. I know you don’t agree
with all the decisions I’ve made but you love me regardless. And you motivate me to try new things all the
time.
Dad- As I grew up I
realized just how special it is that I had a dad so willing to spend time with
us. You encourage me to follow my
passion wherever that leads. I will forever cherish Tin tin, wrestling, adventures
while hiking, the “stuff”, … as long as I’m living your baby I’ll be.
Aimee- You are the
best little sister a girl could ask for.
You are the most loyal compassionate person I know and I have learned so
much from you. Countless times you have
known exactly what to say to inspire me to keep going though your hidden notes.
Robert- Sometimes I forget you’ve had more than your fair
set of challenges because you handle them with a maturity beyond your
years. I am very blessed to have a cool
little brother who is also a friend.
Laura- No matter what
life throws at you, you always get back up and head into the next step in the
journey. You are positive and hopefully
optimistic.
Donna- My first real
friend and the perfect example that no matter how much each of us changed over
the years, true friendship surpasses that.
Plus you taught me to play Nintendo.
Ideen- You aren’t
afraid to take a good hard look inward striving to improve while at the same
time balancing that with a brave acceptance of yourself and others. You are the
most genuine person I have known. Also, you are one hell of a dancer.
Emily- You listen to
people. Really listen in a way that makes them feel like there is nothing else
you want to do at that moment then give your undivided attention.
Nathan- You treat
everyone with the utmost respect. You
care about the person more than any sort of label society may place on them.
Chloe- Our first
meeting was only a little time ago but your vulnerability through the written
word has encouraged me to pour out uncensored feelings.
Tim- You were a safety
net in high school, accepting and never judging. You’ve shown me that it is
okay, nay necessary, to act like a kid sometimes.
Sue- Every challenge that
comes your way you attack with boundless determination. Whether work, teaching,
dance, motherhood, or singing.
Michelle- You embrace
the unexpected with a contagious enjoyment and take on learning new and
creative things with delight.
Jen M.- My other 1/3.
You possess a confidence that comes from being sure of what you want
from life.
Maura- It is so obvious that you care so deeply for your
friends. You remember events, ask
questions and wait for the answer, and reach out just to check in. You are
generous and compassionate.
Jane- My first girlfriend in the City. You helped me survive
the mad world of nyc providing distractions, conversations, perseverance, and just
a place to chill.
Annie- You live your
life with wild quirky abandon. You have
the ability to talk to anyone and make them feel comfortable.
Jen S.- You feel deeply
and passionately and share that with those around you. I’m so happy for you
that you found a job that allows that amazing side of you to be expressed.
Anna- I wouldn’t have
wanted anyone else by my side navigating the craziness of adolescence and
adulthood. Are we really adults?
Seth- Possibly the
best hug giver I’ve ever known. You always
give an authentic smile, spending the time getting to really know people.
Katie- Your posts always uplift and your outlook on life
never ceases to bring a smile to my face and encourage. You’ve demonstrated that
sometimes you don’t even need to have met the person to make a difference in
their life.
Julia- Not only did
passing notes in classes help pass the time, our conversations were so easy no
matter how complicated or difficult the subject. I learned so much about my
opinions from our open and entertaining discussions.
Serge- I would not
have been able to finish the marathon without all the tips you provided after
Toastmasters meetings even though I ignored quite a few. Keep running!
Ryland- Infectious enthusiasm for life- ‘nuf said. In Aussie/Kiwi
you would be “Sweet as, bro”
Lara- In a time when many speak of making the world a better
place, you put the words into action in a way that encourages others to do the
same. Thanks for introducing me to the world of free hugs.
Croix- You are quick to provide an wholehearted word of
encouragement for anyone’s endeavors. Because
you have accomplished so much you provide the often needed confidence to know that
it is possible.
Kate- You’ve shown me that it is okay to not know the whole
story or how it ends but to enjoy the eccentric moments.
Shad- You
demonstrated that faith is not something to just accept but involves asking questions
and never giving up on learning.
Alex- You are one
super cool chick. You rock confidence,
funky, and bubbly all wrapped into one. I
stole your idea, remember – imitation is a form of flattery. Good luck in the marathon.
"So much of me is made from what I learned from you.
You'll be with me, like a handprint on my heart.
Now whatever way our stories end,
I know you have re-written mine
By being my friend..." ~Wicked
