Inspire Those Who Inspire You - Episode I
Shoes of a group standing together in a circle, symbolizing unity and connection.
Editor’s note: Originally written on April 16th, 2014, this post was left unpublished until earlier this year. It has been revised to reflect a more grounded, reflective tone that aligns with where I am today. Specific names and titles have been kept intentionally vague to respect privacy, though the memories and lessons remain central to this story.
Welcome, thoughtful friends. Today’s post is a quiet thank you to those who shape us, often without knowing it.
When I first joined a student club in college, I walked into the very first meeting of the year with excitement and a bit of nerves. So much so, I sat down on the side reserved for student leaders, the people who were supposed to be guiding the group. It was a mix-up, but looking back, it feels symbolic of everything that would follow, including: learning how to navigate new roles, connect with new faces, and lead not by having all the answers, but by showing up and being present.
This post begins a gratitude series I once envisioned called Inspire Those Who Inspire You. As the name suggests, it’s a space to pause and honor the people who, whether knowingly or not, helped shape me into a better version of myself. Oftentimes, we don’t fully realize someone’s impact until we take the time to reflect and appreciate.
To start the series, I want to highlight a few individuals from a chapter filled with purpose, laughter, and growth. Together, we spent countless hours fostering an inclusive environment, working toward positive change, and creating memories that still resonate. These are just a few of the many people who left a meaningful mark on my journey.
Shall we begin?
Before I jump right in, I want to say this: the people I’m about to share with you didn’t go unnoticed. Each of them quietly shaped my journey in ways I couldn’t have predicted. And together, we were a team laying down the building blocks for the future.
So, let me introduce to you the people who left a mark:
One of the first people I met and among the kindest. Even when I was new and unsure, he was a steady presence of encouragement. His ability to lead with kindness inspired me to show up with a lighter spirit, even on the heaviest days.
A dedicated individual who led by example and challenged me to think bigger. Although I wasn’t able to attend one of his first events, his persistence stayed with me. His quiet work ethic was a powerful reminder that even when you’re not always in the room, you can support a mission and make a difference.
One of my closest confidants during that chapter of my life. Whether laughing through late-night study sessions or hiking scenic trails, she showed me what friendship looks like when it grows alongside personal development. Despite some challenges she faced, she kept showing up with purpose. Her resilience pushed me to be keep moving forward, even when things got tough.
He was such a lighthearted soul who brought joy into every room. From running errands for our club to sharing laughs in the office, he reminded me to loosen up and find fun in the little moments.
Though we didn’t talk very much at first, one conversation changed everything. From the sparkle in her eyes to her calm and quiet demeanor, her presence made me want to carry myself with more intention.
His creative energy was contagious. I admired his ability to lead with individuality which empowered me to be bolder and unapologetically myself.
Like the sister I never had (apart from my SILs), our late night talks, road trips, and deep conversations became some of my most cherished memories. She reminded me to focus on what brings joy and trust the journey.
Though our time together was brief, our conversations were deeply meaningful. She modeled strength and openness, standing firm in her beliefs. It was something I often admired.
Each of these individuals shaped how I understand leadership, friendship, and collaboration. We were all just learning about ourselves, about one another, and about how to simply be better human beings. If I’ve learned anything, it’s this:
Surround yourself with people who challenge your thinking and soften your heart. And when you find them, let them know whether through your words, your actions, or maybe even a quiet, updated blog post.
Take a moment to think about the people who’ve helped shape you, whether they knew it or not, and what would you say to them today? If someone comes to mind, consider finding a quiet way to let them know whether through a message, a gesture, or simply holding space for their impact.
Who’s been a part of your story? I’d love for you to share in the comments, or simply take a moment to honor them in your own way. Until next time, keep inspiring those who inspire you.
As a signature of my blog, I’d like to end this post with a suggestion to “Pass on kindness.” There’s no time like the present to Inspire Those Who Inspire You. Acts of kindness, no matter how big or small, can have a direct, positive impact on someone else. Go out there today and change someone’s life for the better!
***These are my personal opinions and may not be those of my employer.***
