OK, I’ll admit that the title can probably be a little vague and can probably become a multi-part series (hey, maybe it will). So, I’ll get to my point of my recent “thinkings” (I’m sticking with that word). The last couple weeks have been a flood of emotions. Seriously. Even for me. Many know already that we recently moved to Florida for school for Shane and, as stoic as everyone in our family has become, even the little things can shake you up a bit. For example, Shane has been out of sorts since before we even moved. But with all the activity of packing and organizing before the move – he became very anxious – even more than usual. It’s a lot different for Brooke, Ryan and Delaney. They get it. They know why we’re moving, where we’re going and what (for the most part) our plans are. But that doesn’t work for Shane. He does not interpret this information the same way, if at all. Add to that the fact that he cannot convey his feelings at all and we are going to struggle a bit. However, through these moments, like we have with other tough moments in our history, we find solace in the little things and we always keep in mind what we are doing and the reason(s) we are doing them. You never quite know what it was that helped you get through it… you just do. But there is a little intangible thing that impacts all of us at some point in some way.
Many people that know me will agree (maybe) that I am a HUGE proponent and advocate of “Inspiration“. And I know with all my heart and soul that we all have to find our own inspiration. Every uncertain moment we live in can shroud us in fear, uncertainty, and, in Shane’s case – anxiety. All of which can be debilitating in the moment and have long term affects.
Inspiration in action: Ryan has been going through some tough medical challenges with Crohn’s Disease for over 8 years. Last April was a turning point for her when she decided to have a life changing procedure. Throughout her decision making process she realized a lot of fear (more than previously), uncertainty due to the “what if’s” that we all talked about and all of that brought on a new level of anxiety that she had not been through before. Very tense moments came and went but something happened for Ryan that changed her and she welcomed the challenges ahead and the idea of a new life… pain free. That was it! She was inspired to push forward due to her belief that her life was going to be so much better. We believed it. The Doctors, of course, believed it. But for awhile, she didn’t. But as soon as a really good and positive thought gets embedded in your brain, your emotions settle in to accept this thought… your mind is now inspired to move forward. And not only was Ryan ready to move forward but she was excited. She was happy and smiling and talkative with everyone. As much as we knew it, she now finally knew that it was her time to feel better. And with that little bit of positive talk, positive thought and focus… Ryan moved forward and tackled a monster.
Inspiration folks. It’s what we all need. We seek it out in the toughest and darkest of times. You may not realize it but you do. You find it in music and songs. Like the song you now listen to over and over. You find it when you hear about people helping others. And so on and so on. It happens. It’s inspiration. It’s what gives you the hope, promise, desire and even the little extra push to get through your toughest times. You find it in observing others and how they treat those around them. You find it in the biggest of circumstances or in the smallest gesture. I’m not the biggest user of social media by any means. But one of my most favorite things about Facebook or YouTube or Instagram is scrolling through the feeds to read and view all the different inspirational stories that people post. Let me tell you, they are all better at telling a story than I am. But they inspire me. They help me believe tomorrow will be better. To be thankful for what we DO have and to not waste the time thinking about what we DON’T have.
Right now, in the middle of what we have just taken on as a family. And considering what lies ahead and the immense challenges we face in the near future. There is a very calm feeling though, because I am inspired by the fact that this family is together. Whatever is thrown at us we will handle – as we have handled so much before. Ryan made a great comment just the other night after some disappointing and frustrating news at the time: “We are a family who makes things work, Dad. This is no different. We’ll figure it out and make it work!“… Can’t disagree with that one bit! I am inspired by Ryan and her determination in life. I am inspired by Shane and his boundless energy and happiness. I am inspired by Delaney’s genuine desire to help others and her love. I am inspired by Brooke’s unrelenting love for our children and everything that she has overcome inspires me to believe (like Ryan said) that we will make things work. SO much inspires me and I can find it when I need it.
How about you? What Inspires you? I’d love to hear it. And, you never know, you may inspire someone else.
I've Been Thinking 