Because of you…

I was at the gym the other day when I overheard two women talking…

“I did not feel like working out today,” one of them said.

Her friend laughed. “Well I’m glad you’re here.”

“I’m not here because of me,” she said. “I’m here because of you. If you hadn’t called me, I wouldn’t be working out.”

It got me thinking about the way we can impact others.

And the way others can impact us.

For those two friends at the gym, it was one getting the other to exercise.

I thought about the times in my own life when I’ve been motivated to do something because of someone else…

Because of Mike, I skied down a black diamond slope once (well, okay, mostly I slid, and I haven’t been back on a black diamond since, but at least I tried it.)

Because of my kids, I’ve really worked on being more patient (which doesn’t come naturally to me).

And because of this woman’s speech at a conference, I decided to become a writer.

I could go on and on.

There have been so many people throughout my life who have inspired me to step out of my comfort zone or who have motivated me to put extra effort into certain things, and I’m so thankful for that. :)

What about you? Is there someone who has helped you to do something? Or have you helped someone else? I’d love to hear about it.  

Comments

  1. When I was in college I was very quiet and decided to become and RA. I step out of my comfort zone. I have a home business today because I always wanted on but my uncle encouraged me.Thanks for the post.

  2. Honestly, right now, I am hosting a blog party on my blog because of the death of my friend's daughter.Watching them go through such profound loss has changed me in ways i never imagined possible…

  3. Not sure I've helped anyone but lots of people have inspired me to try new things and to come out of my shell. Go you on the slopes! Cool story. ;-)

  4. Beautiful post my friend. I've never really thought about it.But I know because of who my husband is, I strive to be a better wife for him. He is so fabulous and even though he wouldn't change a thing about me (so he says) I want to be the best that I can be.As far as influencing others I may never know. I went to a funeral the other day and thought how sad it is that we have to wait until we are gone to see how we have touched others. I say, go ahead and tell me now! LOL!HugsKim

  5. I actually have a blog post (floating around in my head) on this very subject. If it wasn't for an old friend/co-worker… I wouldn't know (let alone be friends with)some of the folks that I am today. I wouldn't even (maybe?)be attending the church that I am today if it wasn't for this person. These people and church have made a profound influence on my life. I like to use the word "catalyst" to describe this person's season in my life. Unfortunately…this friend has walked away from it all. Friends, church and God. It's so sad… but, if it we had never met??? I wonder where I would be today.

  6. I grew up quiet & shy, thinking the real me was not worth much. When I was struggling as a stay at home mom, along came a business mentor named Dani Johnson. Her boldness and wisdom in the marketplace encouraged me to think differently and dare to desire God's desires.I wrote a post today about her thoughts on "immunizing" our kids.

  7. I went to a car auction with my husband, and it was the funnest thing I have done in a very long time:O) Happy Mother's day to you!

  8. Genny,What a great story and good word for today. There are so many people in my life who spur me on to good works…Rhonda – meets me early to walk 3 days a week.Barbara – meets me each week to pray.My husband – I see him reading his Bible – makes me want to do the same.Jennifer – encouraged me to start a blog!And, the list goes on and on.Thanks for the post!Blessings to you today,Melanie

  9. I've been inspired by many and in different seasons, God is so good to use His people like that!

  10. A beautiful post! My friend Dayna has been a huge encouragement to me lately – reminding me to keep taking steps toward my "impossible" dreams. :)stephanie@mtropolitanmama.net

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