Post #5 TANZANIA 2-20-14

   For me being inspired is not just looking up to someone, it is literally wanting to change your life or having them change your own. The impact should teach you something or make you want to follow in their footsteps. That is why my dad inspires me. He moved to Vail 35 years ago to pursue Tele-skiing. He would work three to four jobs in the summer then ski all winter because that's what he loved to do. The he started a multi-million dollar restaurant called TraMonti in Beaver Creek where he hired my mom and started a family. My dad has worked his whole life, from being the newspaper boy in his hometown to help with his families bills to present day. No matter what life throws at him he works with determination to accomplish what he wants. He constantly thinks with his heart and mind, my family and work. In the 15 years, which in my mind seems like a long time, I have seen my dad at his highest and lowest moments but no matter what happens he sets his mind to something and that is what I admire more about him. This has taught me that if I want to receive something I will have to work for it. He inspired me to do what I love while working for something I may want in the future.   

   Another person who inspires me everyday is Ghandi. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was the leader of Indian nationalism in British-ruled India. He promoted nonviolent acts towards achieving freedom during a very violent time. Gandhi led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. He showed others how to channel anger into compassion. One of my favorite quotes from Mahatma is "Where There Is Love There Is Life." This quote speaks to me because when you nurture something by giving it not only the essentials but unconditional love you can change that person's outlook on life. The way I see it is, by you showing them love they will want to share it amongst others. He has inspired me that in times of frustration I need to step back, see it from the other's point of view and take a breath. Also to show love even when one can not love themself and smile. As I go to Tanzania his words will continue to inspire me to love uncondiotnally and let love grow.  (As cheesy as that sounds)

   The last person who inspires me is not just one person, it's "people". Everyday, through ups and downs, bickering and tears of laughter, we are always there for one another. Since preschool I have known Gitte whom inspires me everyday to be spontaneous. And since kindergarten I have known the same kids I now go to high school with, like Ava. She has inspired me to laugh when I don't think I can and inspired me to forgive. Each time I gain or lose a friend I am inspired. Whenever I meet a new person I feel like I've learned something new, maybe it's not super important but it matters. People everywhere can inspire me to change something about myself or to do something new. When I think about it, each person whom I have met has some impact on the person I am today. Imagine being given a list of people who made you into the person you are today...and next to their name you could see the exact personality trait you got because of them. That to me is mind blowing, we have such a massive impact on the others around us. So I guess you could say everyone inspires me. 

   If I were to be any animal I would be a snow puma. I think it would be the coolest thing ever because one, I like snow and two, I like cats. Also snow puma sounded way cooler than snow cat. I have always liked bigger animals with the appearance of power, and I think that reflects my personality because I have always had a thing against making yourself appear to be weak. Snow pumas are also known for being unpredictable as I can be. But to be honest, I would want to be a snow puma so I could have whiskers, paws, and live in the snow!