Inspire Your World
We have all been inspired in our lives, but in this issue I want to explore the idea that being an inspiration is far more powerful than being inspired.
I remember sitting with a friend several years ago, as he was complaining that he never had a male role model. His father abandoned the family when he was very young. As he shared his many disappointments I asked him, “Have you ever thought that you were not meant to HAVE a role model but BE one?” He looked at me with tears in his eyes. We were both struck by this powerful idea.
Let’s face it, it feels good to know someone we respect, someone who leads life with integrity.
Hearing stories about inspiring people has become almost a national pastime. Books are written, movies are made, and television shows are developed to share inspirational stories. What we forget is that we have the opportunity to provide that inspiration to those around us every day. The way we live our lives, how we care for ourselves, our families, our friends, is an inspiration.
The single mother who decides to have and raise her child.
The mother who stays in a hard marriage and learns to turn unhappiness into happiness.
The middle-aged grandmother who decides to get healthy and set an example for her family.
The woman who overcomes her own addiction and earns a PhD in drug counseling.
The friend who stands by you when times are tough.
These are women in my life who are inspirations to me. Who inspires you?
Don’t top there. Think about being an inspiration, too. Who is watching you and looking for someone to give them hope and belief that they can make it. Let’s look for ways we can BE ONE not just have one.
This month I challenge you to look for ways to be an inspiration. What can you overcome that would inspire others?
INSPIRE YOUR WORLD. |
