Thinking about 2015 and looking forward to 2016.
After completing my masters degree in December 2014, I decided to make 2015 a year to figure out how I could utilize my experiences to help others. I started by offering to help more people – resume assistance and volunteering. I also wanted to start writing again. After registering my son for a week-long summer technology camp, I decided to take vacation time and start a blog. I didn’t know what I could offer to someone else – but the goal was to put my thoughts and opinions together to share and to help others. Hence, this blog began.
To date, I have been writing this blog with topics inspired from discussions I have had while mentoring others and from topics on different Facebook groups. As I think about 2016, I begin by thinking about how blessed I am to be surrounded by a loving family and friends who inspire me. It is important to me to live life with passion and drive – while on a full, dynamic journey. Sometimes I regret not realizing this before now. But we learn things when we are open to them. I believe in fulfilling dreams and looking forward. I enjoy spending time reading self-help books, magazines, and websites. I pick up tidbits of wisdom and ponder how they apply in my life. My Pinterest boards have pins that inspire or help. While reading, what strikes me most often is following your own truth, your own path.
I am blessed. When I was growing up, my Dad worked two full-time jobs so my Mom could stay home to raise us. This instilled in me family values and a determination to do the right thing. They have only wanted my siblings and me to be happy – and have inspired me to be the best person I could be. My husband inspires me to tell my story and live my life – healthy and happy. He’s a loving husband, my best friend, and an amazing father. My son is a constant inspiration. He is the reason I reflect on life and try to be a better person. He asked I add that he also imparts his wisdom to me. He keeps me laughing and on my toes. I have good friends who I can call upon for a good laugh or a good cry – sometimes both at the same time.
Being beautiful starts on the inside. I strive to be more mindful and to listen more with my heart and with understanding. My wish for 2016 is to spend more time with the people who are important to me, to push myself out of my comfort zone, to listen, and to continue on the health and writing journey I started in 2015.
Life offers amazing opportunities. I hope you open your heart and listen for opportunities too.
~I’m here to help
Tina
What inspired me in 2015?
Two people who inspire me to be creative and true to myself.
David Darrko. https://www.youtube.com/user/daviddarrkoTV
David is a beautiful singer, director, and artist. I’m honored to know him and watch him follow his creative path.
Melissa Hawks. http://www.melissabhawks.com/
Melissa is an amazing person I’m glad to have met on my journey this year. She is writer, an inspiration, and an all around cool person to know.
Two novels that moved me this year are:
Brill, Amy. 2013. The Movement of Stars.
Gloss, Susan. 2014. Vintage.
Each story, though very different, had strong women characters who struggled with their path in life. They both inspired me.
Carter, Nick. 2013. Facing the Music.
Nick’s biography is presented as a self-help book as he tries to overcome obstacles and share his journey. I originally picked up the book to find out more about him. I might be one of the few people who didn’t know anything about him, including he was part of a band. His journey is insightful and his book is full of practical tips to implement in their own life.
Gilbert, Elizabeth. 2015. Big Magic. In case you need permission to live up to your creative potential, you must read this.
King, Carole. http://beautifulonbroadway.com/about/
King, Carole. 2012. A Natural Woman.
I had the privilege of seeing the Broadway musical Beautiful in Chicago with my friend Kathy. I was so excited that I knew every song. I never realized how much she touched my life, my heart. When you utilize your talents, you touch others.
Many authors and celebrities give me practical wisdom through humor and the human experience. I enjoy their words and I enjoy learning about their journeys. Here are a few: authors Charles Schulz, A. A. Milne, Bill Waterson, and J. K. Rowling, actors Betty White and Tom Hanks, comedians Conan O’Brien, Steve Harvey, and Dane Cook, and spiritual leaders Oprah Winfrey and Maya Angelou.
Librarians. Librarians are an amazing group of people. What inspires me the most are those of us who are committed to serving our communities – creativity within the buildings and through outreach services. I’m honored to work with librarians I adore. I admire those I get to know across the country through ABOS.
Finally, my seniors inspire me. I bring library materials to senior citizens. They show me how to deal with whatever life throws at you.