Change the World

Recently I’ve been very inspired by others—and I love that!  I too hope to inspire others in my own way.  Though many of you may already know about these people, as each has become famous in their own way, I’d like to share with you who I have been inspired by this past week. 

First is Aaron Collins.  I heard Aaron’s story on the news while driving home from work.  According to the news story I heard, Aaron who had recently passed away at the age of 30, loved to give big tips after eating out at restaurants, especially to rude or stressed out waiters or waitresses.  One time, Aaron gave a $50 tip to a waitress who had been extremely rude and he reported that the tip completely changed her attitude, outlook, and behavior almost immediately.  Aaron loved to see these types of changes in people and as his dying wish asked that his family give a $500 tip to a waiter or waitress and that is exactly what they are doing.  Now people across the country have been inspired to give big tips to make someone else’s day.  Pretty cool story.  You can learn more about Aaron’s story at aaroncollins.org.

Second is Lindsey Stirling.  Lindsey is a dancing violinist.  I was sent her story in an email and read how she is becoming well-known because of her talents in playing the violin while dancing.  I also learned that for the most part she taught herself how to play as well as dance because her family could not afford lessons.  I love how she boldly shares her talents and is doing what she loves to do.  You can watch a video of Lindsey at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vp63nbOfxgs and I think you will be impressed and inspired as I was. 

Finally is Matt Harding who brings the world together in dance.  Dancing is fun, makes people happy, and brings people together.  You can see Matt’s world dance at http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=Pwe-pA6TaZk&.    

Watching, hearing, and learning about these individuals makes me want to be a better person.  They in some way are making a difference and leaving a mark on this world.  In their own ways, they are inspiring others.      

Like them, I have a great desire to have a positive impact on others.   Like them, I want to leave this world a better place; I want to change it for good.  And I believe each of us can.  Most often it won’t be through huge, amazing things that we do but rather in simple ways like a fifty dollar tip.  I believe each of us regardless of our background, education, experience, social status, income level, etc. can have a tremendous impact on others and on the world.  I believe each one of us is unique and in our own ways can make a significant contribution and difference.  I hope I find my way to do it, and I hope you find yours too.  Let’s change the world!