Inspiration

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.  

Tara-  You have taught me what it means to be a good manager, offering praise, support and a place to vent when necessary.

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