I was once told that people come into our lives for either a reason, a season, or a lifetime. I thought about the people that have come into my life and chose one that I believe has for these three reasons.
FOR A REASON-- While I was selling books during my first summer of college, I told a woman I was selling educational materials and she told me a story. She was into her mid-forties and had been deprived of having an education all throughout her younger years. She never had the chance to go to high school or college because her parents did not see her as worthy of learning. She teared up as she told me how badly she wanted to be educated, and wanted to give the absolute best to her high school daughter. I was grateful that I could help her achieve this dream of being educated, but even more so, I was thankful that she came into my life for a reason. I learned about a life so different than my own and it gave me a new perspective on what seems to be mandatory and that is easy to take for granted.
FOR A SEASON--My senora, Tere, didn't care to learn a word of English while I lived in her home in Spain. At first, I saw this as close-minded, but after three months of having no choice but to speak in Spanish, I was grateful. That semester, I not only ate, breathed, and dreampt (literally) in Spanish, but I gained a greater appreciation for living in a different country. I realized that scrubbing the kitchen floor is a daily activity, that fruit is considered a dessert, and that people deserve a three-hour "siesta" every day. I learned a lot from this great lady, and although we only had a season together, she has influenced my perspectives forever.
FOR A LIFETIME--From inspiring me to challenge myself, to being open-minded to new adventures, to thinking bigger in all aspects of my life, my brother Justin is in my life for a lifetime. We've drummed on kitchen pots together, supported each other's high school sports, and have together traveled the world. He motivates me to discover my adventurous-spirit, use my potential in all aspects, and always treat people with ongoing kindness. I feel fortunate to have someone that is positively empowering, entertaining, and truly sincere that will be in my life forever. My sister, Rachel, (although much younger) is equally inspiring with her happy, funny, and always entertaining-spirit. I'm excited to stay close with her as she grows through the years, and know we will have a special relationship for a lifetime.
