Some of the most inspiring people I’ve met this week weren’t famous, they were everyday people living extraordinary lives.
The man I booked, purely by chance, to do my hair is 77 years old. He’s been doing hair since 1968, and says he loves every minute of creating with color and meeting new people. Even though he’s getting ready for a two month vacation around Europe, he has no plans to stop his work at the salon when he returns. Full disclosure: he says he doesn’t smoke, drink, nor have kids. Not many of us fit in those categories.
On the other hand, the woman I met while grabbing a bite afterward was celebrating with a big old frozen drink at LuLu’s in Waikiki. She was alone, and close to beaming with joy! She’s visiting from the D.C. area to celebrate her goal of passing the Boards to become certified to teach autistic children. She smiled ear to ear talking about how much she loves the children. Then she went on to order the steak dinner and dessert! On this island, that’s no small check. A great celebration for a terrific accomplishment.
I was also inspired by a mom and daughter I met during the tsunami evacuation at the University of Hawaii. They left the Philippines so the daughter could study communications; mom earned her own certificate, landed her first job since marriage, and now works as a social worker to help pay for her daughter’s education. Living close to campus, they seem to share a close bond. I was first drawn to them because of their shared laughter during this uncertain emergency situation. It seemed like they were more best friends than mom and daughter. Their connection opened my own heart.
It’s uplifting to hear stories of courage, joy, and love just by meeting others and listening. The people I met by chance over the last week reminded me that inspiration is everywhere, if we just take the time to meet each other.
Are you looking for inspiration? Do you have a story to tell that you want to share with the world? I’m here to help you take the next step Book a session with me, I’m happy to support you!