Inspire Those Who Inspire You - Episode II
Letter board with Johann Wolfgang von Goethe quote” “We are shaped and fashioned by what we love,” resting on a dandelion-colored knit blanket.
Editor’s note: Originally written on May 3rd, 2014. Updated throughout 2025 to reflect the growth, the gratitude, and perspective time has offered. This post will continue to evolve as I do.
Welcome, reflective hearts and curious minds, to another post in the Inspire Those Who Inspire You series. Today’s reflection turns inward towards two steady figures who shaped much of who I am. One through steady presence, the other through a headstrong mindset. With Mother’s Day just behind us and Father’s Day on the horizon, I invite you to pause with me and reflect on the presence of those who’ve cared for us from parents to guardians to caregivers and more. This post is to honor those who shaped who we are today.
The first person I want to talk about embodied determination and quiet strength. They worked tirelessly, often putting work and responsibility ahead of downtime by sacrificing moments of presence to ensure we were cared for. Beyond their work ethic, they were also the one who quietly resolved issues behind the scenes. Looking back, I recognize they were doing the best they could to provide stability, even if it meant missing out on some of the “now.” Their dedication and determination taught me the importance of sacrifice, of love, and to make the most of our circumstances.
Despite the challenges, we were often inseparable bound by moments of laughter, late-night talks, afternoon walks, and simple routines that felt like anchors. I remember how their presence, even when quiet or distracted, was a constant comfort, a steadying force in a world that could sometimes feel uncertain. Another thing I often noticed was their way of handling uncomfortable, unfamiliar, or awkward situations. They would fill the gap with a quick joke or find something relatable to discuss. It was their way of easing tension and keeping connection alive when words felt too hard to find. These memories of closeness, sometimes imperfect but always meaningful, remind me how deep connection isn’t about perfection, but about showing up.
The next figure in my life carried a different kind of presence. A persistent, more headstrong determination. Someone who wasn’t afraid to stand up for what they believed in even if they were left standing alone. Someone who faced skepticism head on and challenged the ways in which the world could improve. In many ways, he was a force to be reckoned with, in discussions, in debates, and everything in-between. Often causing others to think outside the box.
While he may have been considered fierce competition, he too had a heart of gold. He would go out of his way, bend over backwards (if need be), or be right there with you in times of need. He would offer the last of his favorite food, only pillow, or the clothes off his back, in the event it was needed. He wasn’t one to hesitate. Most of all, he had this unbelievable sense of adventure. From biking riding for miles in a circle or along the lake trail to long, tiring road trips across the US, his curiosity and wonder, inspired the next generation in our family.
Together, they’ve not only taught me different lessons but they instilled important values in me that carry with me today. It’s through their dedication, determination, quiet strength, curiosity, and wonder that I am who I am today.
So to anyone reading this, I encourage you to reflect on those who’ve shaped you whether caregivers, mentors, or quiet figures in your life. If you feel comfortable, share your story. You never know who might need to hear it.
Again, thank you to those who guided me. I love you. I hope I inspire you as much as you once inspired me.
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.***
