What inspires me..

One year ago I sat here very inspired by the words of a dear friend. "If you take the time to see the world through someone else's eyes you can learn so much more about yourself and about life."  I thought long and hard about what this meant. It hit me like a ton of bricks that life is about perspective. How we see everything and everyone around us. I understood that we all view the world and what happens around us in a different way. Taking the time to just listen and take in what someone else has to say can help you see things differently and can literally change your mind.

So I sat looking at my facebook status and wondered what I could possibly say that could be so inspiring. I decided to ask for something handwritten from anyone that would listen. I wanted to see the world through someone elses eyes. Wanted to learn what gave them the deep belly laugh, what touched their heart, or what made their day. I honestly thought maybe I would get one or two.  I didn't want it to be emailed  only because I felt to understand I needed to read it on paper. I wanted to  have it somewhere where it would not get lost in time or could be deleted. Seeing their handwriting would make it feel more personal and a little less cold like words on a computer screen.

I started getting mail pretty quick. I was amazed at the things I was getting. Cards, letters, pictures,books, and even a beautiful ring from one of my closest friends!   There were things sent to me from across the country and right down the street. Old friends, new friends, and even a few people I didnt even know.  I was told some deep dark secrets, read about about amazing challenges, brought to tears and then laughed so hard I cried.

I never expected to inspire anyone either and some people said that I  was what inspired them. What a heartfelt thing that was for me to hear. I was and still am quite humbled that I made a difference to anyone.

I have seen the world through 40 different pairs of eyes. It was a wonderful gift that was given to me. It may not seem like much but to me it was huge. Just taking the time to really listen to someone elses thoughts can truly make you see what life is about. 

I always thought I was just a housewife for 18 years. Felt invisible. Who would listen to anything I had to say? Then one day i was told there was a chance I could die and I thought well Kristen it might be a good idea to make a mark on the world somewhere. maybe I didnt make more than a tiny scratch somewhere but the world has sure made a mark on me.