The definition, depending where you look for it, for inspiration is "a person or thing that motivates, uplifts, or gives one the confidence to do something." (Just Google it and although it takes a bit of digging to find a definition that does not include "inspiring", one can find sources online that give a real definition.) Generally, inspiration involves stirring an emotion to be creative. When it comes to December, we're often looking for "inspiration" for gifts that are meaningful to the recipient and we often are seeking inspiration. And as we are now two weeks away from Christmas and Hanukkah, I will hope you all have been inspired appropriately. I took a pledge this year to avoid Amazon and focus on local, small businesses. The intent is "reclaim this Advent season from consumption to community, hope, and renewal." And with just one person left to find a gift, I think I succeeded by focusing on a local bookstore and for one major gift, preparing a giftbook that is based on providing future experiences together. And, I completely avoided Amazon.
But what about inspiration not related to gifts? When I worked, I had several places where I posted quotes for inspiration that I could turn to as needed depending on the "issue du jour." I'm sure you've had times in you life where you looked for inspiration from others to solve a problem, address an issue, or have a creative solution that would make everyone happy. (Okay, making "everyone happy" never happened, but it doesn't mean we don't try.) I had lots of post-it notes on my desk and I kept several printouts that I now have on my home desk. So, I'll close with this one that I think ties in with the December holiday spirit:
"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."
--Harriet Tubman
May you be inspired today to reach for the stars and maybe change one person's life, even if it is your own, for the better.
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