Last week I met a girl from my neighborhood who I've never met before. She wanted to be part of our yard sale but showed up a little too late for the bigger crowds. But we had plenty of time to chit chat. As we started talking, she told me how she struggled with her daughter (who is now 16 months old) the first year of her life due to multiple health complications. She then proceeded to tell me a little more about herself - how she was working two jobs to pay off debt, and her husband was working 6 days a week, sometimes up to 12 hours per shift. And in a week, she was going back to school in the evenings... Not for a second did she complain about her life. In fact, she was telling me all of this more as a matter of fact, even with a smile on her face, and I couldn't help but admire this very determined and strong young woman, barely 5 feet tall...
Almost every day we hear stories about courageous, powerful, amazing inspirational figures. But sometimes the most influential are the "simple" people around us, those who just quietly live their lives, unknown to most of the world. We all have superpowers within us, and we can change the lives of others one little step at a time. Often, simply by being ourselves... I've been blessed by so many people in my life who left their light touch or deep impression without knowing it. Just like my cute little neighbor...
Who inspired you recently? Who are those "simple" influential people in your every day life who might've left a much bigger impact than they could ever imagine?
Lena you might not believe this but you are an inspirational woman in the way that you live your life without getting into debt.
ReplyDeleteAnother inspirational woman I once met is someone called Sue Hayward. She was a local woman (now living in Kenya) who set up a charity to look after children in Watamu. She has also set their own blog http://childrenofwchildrenofwatamu.blogspot.co.uk. It's worth a look just to read her story.
Carolx
I definitely will. I always admire people who can leave everything behind and go and serve others in different parts of the world with an open heart and arms.
DeleteMy Dad is my inspiration. He has always been a strong, funny, caring man. Now he is battling cancer and is in extreme pain. ( It is now in his bones.) Through everything he is still finding humor in life and makes sure he leaves us laughing at something he says. My sister and I are now calling him Dylan because he is not "Going gently into that good night" In fact until last week he was still playing golf. There is little I can do to alter his current state, but I can keep him supplied with chocolate chip cookies and peanut butter fudge. ( His favorites)
ReplyDeleteOh, I'm so sorry about your Dad!! Is there any hope for him? Hugs to you, my dear. I know you are doing your best to help and support him right now.
DeleteBeautifully related Lena !
ReplyDeletein a way I feel there is a lesson to be learnt from this!
keep well
Amanda :-)
PS:Mediterranean giveaway still open :-)
Thank you, Amanda :)
DeleteRight now, my inspiration is very much on my mind--my sister-in-law. She has just gone into hospice care for an incurable cancer. However, the way she has lived her life over the past year with determination and fun has been an inspiration to me and all who know her.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry about your sister!!! Nothing hurts more than to see our loved ones suffer.
DeleteAWESOME AWESOME post. Simplicity and determination are really the key to a great life. Thank you for the reminder!
ReplyDeleteThank you, my friend!
DeleteThis is the sweetest post I have ever read in a blog! What a beautiful way of looking at people we come across from day to day. I have many people who I feel are an inspiration to me, many of whom have blogs of their own that I follow. You, my friend, are one of the people that inspire others, encourage others and make positive impressions just by being you. Thank you for this post and for making so many people smile today with your words! :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a great story and a lesson to us all to listen to those who are around us. Right now my cousin is inspiring me - he has reached out to me and has been very supportive as I navigate my way through my recent difficulties. In times of difficulty you really find out who your friends are!
ReplyDelete