Inspiration

INSPIRATION


Sometimes we seek out inspriation, and sometimes inspiration finds us. However, I think what we forget (I know I do) is that inspiration is all around us. I am taking steps back now, not in moving forward, but steps back to think about it all. Reflection! We have a capacity for so very much. I am dedicating this particular entry to my beautiful parents, Paula and David. They have provided me with inspiration that has the power to create infinite universes. Take this walk with me.

Quick side note, I never realized that this blog would evolve to what is becoming for me. I hope you all enjoy reading it. It's certainly what I would articulate if I were with each of you in person. More important, no matter what I say this is for me. I need to say it.

Now here we go. Let me profess (whether you like it or not) my thoughts on inspiration. This was triggered recently by a note I received from a very sweet and inspirational (in her own right) colleague. She wrote to me about about my performance in my new position, which in itself is incredibly touching because she took the time. Her very thoughtful words throughout the note made me blush, but also refreshed my self confidence. Yet, it was the last sentence she wrote that I think about repeatedly. Her comment was, "You Inspire Me!" How does anyone digest that pure statement? I was taken back by that comment and just sat there and gazed at it. Me, inspire someone. I always try to be so true with me feelings and everyone who knows me would say I don't hold back. I think I provide people with guidance on certain topics, but I find its because of my own inpiration from them or my surroundings. Yet, it's the something so powerful when someone you have known for such a short time says those three unexpected and motivational words, that you reflect. I am honored and humbled.

Those words meant so much more to me because they were not only very kind, but they were thought provoking. I thought about the many different family, friends and people in my life who have inpisired me. Yet, two most inspiring are my parens who love their children uncondiionally (which I think and hope most parents do). Yes, Mom and Dad, you beat out Thoreau for most inspirational. I had to throw that in.

No matter what the day, the issue, the moment my parents happy, sad, annoyed, surprised or unsure, always said to all my siblings and each other, I love you. Inspiration.

It's their inspiration that I am here in Chicago today. It's their inspiration that I am challenging myself, bettering myself. It's their inspiration, that I, without knowing, inspired someone else.

I am living a life filled with inspiration and it all stems from my parents, people who go out of their way to make everyone around them feel that much better about themselves. I understand inspiration because of them (I understand a lot about life because of them).

I know I much to learn and find out about Chicago, but what I have found is that it is a land of discovery. Like any city there is a history here. Yet, Chicago yearns for you to discover it and provides heaps of reasons to. I have not met a person here who has not wanted to tell me a story of why they enjoy living here. They talk to me about places they have eaten at or seen, times they have had with others in this city (and I think all of them have them have expressed their deep gratitude for the very inexpensive drinks). Had to throw that in as well. Seriously, they tell me these stories and I want to dive in, I want to discover. I want to be Inspired. Wait a minute. I am inspired. I moved, but brought with me all that wonderful inspiration in life (and a little baggage, but we all have that). I am looking forward to showing you more of what I discover and what inspires me in Chicago.

For now, Mom, Dad- the dictionary should have your two names as the definition of Inspiration. I know it's mine.