You Count

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

At the marathon this weekend, it was inspiring to hear about the amazing accomplishments of the front of the pack –  finishing in 2.5-3 hours. I was happy to finish and improve a bit on my first marathon. The real inspiration came for me as I walked back from the finish line to see family and friends at mile 25. Runners were still finishing, pushing through, six hours on the course.

According to marathon “rules,” the course closes at six hours and you must clear the road. Runners at that point were told that they could finish on the sidewalk but they were unofficial and it didn’t count. Wow! How often do we hear or say that to ourselves or others?

In our daily lives, by actions, inactions, expressions and words, we have the power to inspire or deflate. Never discount anyone. What you do and say matters – choose wisely with kindness and love as your compass.