Through out my life I have been inspired by people around me who took the road not easily traveled or stood up for what they believed was ethically and morally right. Or how inspired I became when witnessing strangers who gave small gestures of kindness and compassion to someone in need was . Most of my “mentors” probably do not know the impact they made on my life and others.
A year and half ago, a friend of mine planned a trip to Italy with her friend. They had scheduled a tour of Rome for the first week and the rest of the month they would travel to various cities. Just before leaving her friend had to cancel because of illness. Jeannie went any way, alone. When she got back I asked her how was the trip. She loved it. I questioned her if she was ever scared to be by herself. “No, not at all! ” I was amazed!
She did not realize that her trip inspired me to walk the Camino alone until I gave her a copy of my photo essay book on my journey walking the Camino. She was surprised when she read my dedication to her which stated, “she opened the door to my imagination that I too could walk alone in a foreign country”. She was so touched she exclaimed as she wiped away a tear, “I have never been an inspiration to anyone in my life”. To that I said I can’t believe that. You just haven’t been told.
