Where Do You Find Inspiration?

"You must be the change you wish to see in the world."

Mahatma Gandhi

                Have you ever come across something or someone that completely changed your life? Now, I’m not talking about the actual birth of your children or the day you said “I do” to the person of your dreams. Do you find it in rainbows? Do you find it in the writing and rambling of others? How about the way nature works? These are great ways to find inspiration but what I am talking about is something or someone that has altered the way you perceive events or the actions of others in a way that you never thought you would; someone that sees the good in every situation and truly genuinely prays for the good of everyone, no matter who they are. She doesn’t pray for her own salvation; she prays because that’s how big her heart is.

                I was given the opportunity to meet someone exactly as I described above. This person sees the good in everything and everyone, and does not cast judgment. She has been dealt a losing hand in some areas, and lots of people I know would have thrown in the towel a long time ago, but she presses on and keeps a smile on her face (although I’m sure behind closed doors, she lets her pain show). I see her almost every day and I know she is struggling with some things and I wish I could take some of her pain and sorrow away, and make even one thing easier for her to handle. She is completely selfless and bends over backwards to make sure everyone is happy and has what they want/need, despite her own wants and desires. Perhaps the most disheartening thing is that people walk all over her. They fail to see the daily sacrifices she makes for them and that makes me sad. I wish I could just slap them with a reality check.

                Searching for inspiration for a long time, I have finally found it. I find it in her. Had it not been for her words or even that kind-hearted smile of hers, I would have walked away a long time ago. There have been many things happening in my life over the course of the past few months, many ups and downs (too darn many to count!), but she has always had my back and has supported me in any decision I made. She is true to the world, but most importantly, she is true to herself. She is the epitome of genuine. The world needs more people like her. 

               Seriously.  

                Wherever you are or wherever you may go, please remember that the world is not all bad. Take that extra moment and let someone go before you in line at the store, or smile when someone is looking at you. You never know - They might need that small act of random kindness; it may mean something so much more to them. Be an inspiration to someone else. We (parents) are so concerned with being a good influence to our children but do we ever think about being a good influence to our neighbors?

                In closing, I would like to thank you, my friend, (yes, I am leaving her unnamed) from the very bottom of my heart for being…YOU. We go through a lot every day but I am very grateful for knowing you and having the opportunity to be your friend. Just remember, I have your back :)

"This is the beginning of a new day. You have been given this day to use as you will. You can waste it or use it for good. What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it. When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever; in its place is something that you have left behind...let it be something good." 

Author Unknown