Thursday Thirteen - People who inspired in 2007
Early this year, a friend asked me how I planned to be of service this year. I told her, in no uncertain terms, that I was over being of service to people. She laughed then said that if I was never of service again, I would have done more than most.
Bitter, however, is not in my nature.
This year, I found myself inspired over and over again by people who did what they could where they stood. People who tried to help in the ways they were able to.
Thursday Thirteen #12 - People who inspired me in 2007
In a year where millions of words were written about people who accomplished nothing, here’s a list of 13 people who inspired me in 2007.
1. Women can be beautiful, smart and strong - Queen Rania Al-Abdullah: She’s beautiful. She’s a princess. Let’s face it. She could spend her entire life spending her adoring husband’s money. Instead, she is dedicated to empowering women and educating children. Her voice is strong and adamant. Educate children. Empower women. Give people hope. 100% female, yet smart, articulate and willing to play with the big boys in world politics. Wow.
2. Honest assessment is important - General Petraeus: You probably think this is a weird choice for me. I admire the manner in which the General took command and his dedication to the soldiers. More than anything, I admire his willingness to speak his truth, in a public forum. No General in Vietnam took that risk. No General in Korea took that risk - even today! “I am not a pessimist or an optimist about Iraq. I am a realist, and Iraq is hard.” Damn straight.
3. You can’t buy class - John McCain: You know how much attention and props John McCain would get if he was willing to talk about his torture experience? He’d have interviews on every major network. Charlie Rose, Larry King and Barbara Walters would kill each other for the story. Instead, he talks about the horrors of torture without stooping to cutting himself open for public display. I don’t agree with a lot of his politics, but in this matter, he is indeed a class act.
4. Open courageous dialog is important in the age of diplomacy - President Hugo Chavez: It take a tremendous amount of courage to stand up to any United States President in his own continent. It takes even more courage to stand up to this particular President. Period.
5. Miracles happen - Ian Paisley, First Minister, and Martin McGuinness, Deputy Minister of Northern Ireland: I never thought I would live to see peace in Northern Ireland. Yet, two unlikely colleagues, DUP leader Ian Paisley and Sinn Féin’s Martin McGuinness were sworn in to run the country on May 8, 2007. Once enemies, these men work together for the future of Northern Ireland. It’s nothing short of miraculous.
7. Sometimes, no one is to blame - Colorado State Troopers Zachariah Templeton and Scott Hinshaw: October 11, Colorado State Trooper Scott Hinshaw stopped to help a motorist when a plastic tank slipped off his flat bed truck. Trooper Hinshaw called Trooper Templeton for back up. It was icy and cold that day, but there they stood on the median trying to help a motorist. An inexperienced teen driver slammed on his brakes to avoid the back up and drove into the median. Trooper Templeton died the next day. Trooper Hinshaw survived severe injury. Neither men, nor their families, blame the inexperienced teenager for the accident. Now how refreshing is that?
8. Democracy requires sacrifice and courage - Buddhist monks in Rangoon, Burma: Barefoot and in robes, Buddhist monks were joined by tens of thousands of civilians shouting for Democracy. They were slaughtered where they stood. How many times have I taken my democracy for granted? Democracy is not perfect but to these peace loving monks, it was worth dying for. (Watch report on YouTube)
9. Use your influence to do good - Angelina and Brad: While many celebrities used their influence this year to sell products (such as water), Brad Pitt is using his influence to support rebuilding of the 9th ward in New Orleans. Angelina Jolie quietly goes around the world in support of child refugees. We each have influence. Why not use it to do some good?
9. Get busy! There’s a lot to do! - President Nicolas Sarkozy: He took office in France in May, 2007. By June 24, 2007, he effectively negotiated the release of six Bulgarian medics who had been raped, tortured and held hostage in Libya for eight years. Eight years! In the world, right at this moment, there are more than a hundred men and women held hostage. There’s a lot to do. Get busy.
10. “You’re the only one here” - Wesley Autrey: That’s what Wesley Autrey said to himself when he saw a 20-year-old film student fall into the path of an on-coming rush hour subway train. He jumped into the tracks, pulled the young man into a trough between the rails, then laid on top of him.(Link to story) Sometimes, it is indeed up to us. We are the only ones there. I can only hope to have the same courage.
11. Take responsibility when you screw up - Lane Garrison: He was drunk. He was driving. He killed someone. Same old Hollywood story, right? Not this time. Lane Garrison took responsibility. Not many people with money, power, and media influence would simply admit to being guilty and take their sentence - over three years in prison. We live in a cause and effect universe. I can only hope to take that kind of responsibility for my actions.
12. Life is not a dress rehearsal - Jeremy Hernandez: Jeremy Hernandez was on a bus with fifty-two children when the Minnesota bridge they were driving on collapsed. Reacting quickly, he kicked open the rear exit to rescue all of the children and seven staff members to safety. (Click here to read the story). We are called to help at different times. It’s up to us to respond.
13. People are essentially good - You: I’ve been inspired over and over again this year by the ways people reach out to each other. I’ve been very blessed to have such a tremendous community to participate in. Every one of you has inspired me to let go of my cynical bitterness and try again. You inspire!
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43. Matthew James Didier 44. Pop Tart 45. Vixen 46. Missy 47. Nana 48. Penelope Anne 49. Danielle 50. Tink 51. Harris Channing 52. Daisy 53. damozel 54. Rian Fike 55. Maryanne 56. Xakara 57. Wolfie 58. Merlin & Dragonheart 59. Robin 60. SJ Reidhead 61. Nicole Austin 62. Darla |
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Filed under: Inspiration, Thursday Thirteen
there is good out there, tough to find it lately, but it’s there
That’s a very interesting list. I used to admire Chavez, but not without many reservations. As for the rest, I agree with you on several of them.
It would be so easy to do a list of people one admires and include the same 13 tired old choices. Thanks for doing something a bit different and giving us all food for thought.
FuriousBall - You are having a tough time. This too hsall pass.
Nicholas - Different? Moi?
Thank you for posting such a thought-provoking Thirteen. I agree that we all need to step forward and do something. I hope that everyone has a chance to read this. I’m marking it to send to my friends! Thanks for sharing!
Wow, Claudia. That’s one hell of a post — and you are SO right on all counts.
As soon as we kick my machine into high gear, I hope to be able to make your list. I have big plans… I hope I can pull them off.
happy TT!
Awesome entry!!! And I could not agree with you more regarding Queen Rania
I have to say this was a very interesting list. I didn’t know some of the people listed and I feel lucky to have learned of them on your site. This was very inspirational. Go luck in the coming year we could all learn a little something from this list!
Happy TT. Thanks for stopping by.
Sobeit - Gosh, thanks for sending it on. I am amazed at what other people do - they inspire!
Susan Helen Gottfried - If there is a way I can help, let me know! I think it’s about just getting going!
Sue - Sigh, I do love Queen Rania. Have you seen the way King Abdullah looks at her? It’s a fairy tale.
Sarai - Well… there is always more to do, and more to learn!
Pussreboots - Cheers!
Its always wonderful to be inspired. You are truly blessed. Great list. Happy TT and thanks for stopping by:)
I’m impressed by the amount of thought and effort you put into your TT. Like everyone, I’m sure, I agree with some of your inclusions, and not with others. You would do the same for mine, I’m sure. =)
Wow, what a great list. I was inspired by those who inspired you. Happy New Year. May you be blessed.
Martin McGuinness and his Sinn Fein colleages are geniuses. I applaud them.
Nice TT and you are right - it is nice to hear the truth in a public forum.
Thank you for reminding me of Mr. Autrey’s name. His act was SO brave! Other than him, our lists would be very different. But that’s not the point, is it? It’s important that we find inspiration and strive to do better, isn’t it? You do that so well here. Happy TT, happy 2008 and thanks for visiting my TT.
Great TT Claudia, you are always inspiring and fun!!!!! Mine’s up!!!!
Lori - Yea! Inspiration! Yea!
Babystepper - I would expect that everyone would have his or her own list. It’s just great to find people that inspire!
Lazy Daisy - Hey, that’s cool. Happy New Year to you!
Sandy Carlson - I was actually amazed at what the DUH gave up. They haven’t ever done that before. The entire thing is so miraculous to me…. makes me weepy.
AtomiK Kitten - So rare to hear truth in a public forum….
That Gal Herself - Yes. It’s important that we continue to grow, strive and find inspiration to do so!
No Nonsense Girl - I just usually inspire you to purchase expensive lingerie…
We used to live in St. Paul, so the bridge collapse really struck close to home. The stories give me cold chills and bring tears to my eyes! Happy TT and thanks for stopping by my blog!
Do know that I’d lookup to Hugo for anything really, but interesting. Thanks for sharing!
A very interesting, thought-provoking list, Claudia. Some I wouldn’t have thought of but was swayed by your reasoning.
I did a post about Wesley Autrey when he performed his incredibly heroic deed (with his own children watching, yet.) Thank you for reminding me that he is one of my forever heroes, like anyone who puts himself at risk for a perfect stranger.
All these people make our world a better place in their own ways. We should all strive to do the same.
Wow. What a thought-provoking list. I have tears too.
Your TT today was inspiring as well. So many people shape this world, it’s great to be able to look at the ones that do it in the most possitive of ways.
Happy TT
http://moondancerdrake.livejournal.com
Great idea for a list. I’d add Ayaan Hirsi Ali.
Joely - I know just what you mean. There have been situations like that here in Denver that make me teary.
Tim - Do or don’t? Courage is always impressive to me. (shrugging) just me.
Heart in SF - I remember your post - you write so beautifully. People who do what they can are very impressive to me. People like you!
Susie J - Would you like a tissue??
Moondancer Drake - I am inspired by people who try - in the ways that they can, where they stand. It’s impressive.
Lisa - Wikipedia here I come! I remember her beautiful, courageous face. thank you for the reminder! Yes, she does inspire!
I have to BOOKMARKED this!!! Such thought provoking post and really gives me shivers on some of those you mentioned specially the #8! Thank you for posting this one..I really like it..SERIOUSLY!
Here’s mine for this week!
Thursday 13
Enjoy the rest of the Holidays!
How impressive! I love how you focused on wonderful and touching events of the past year.
Well thought out & interesting. Not your run of the mill list.
What an inspiring list. I like your views of our world and condensing them to 13 here. Thank you.
That’s a great list. Number 7 struck me pretty hard when it happened. My husband is a Colorado State Trooper too, my heart aches for their families. I honestly fear every time he goes to work and I cried when the news broke about that.
Wow, that was really inspiring! Once in a while, we all need to be reminded to stop thinking of only ourselves and to remember that there is much we can do for others. Thank you!
Have a blessed New Year ahead!
Great list to end 2007. I hope you have a have New Year.
Very interesting what you say. I also admire Queen Rhania, she is a great woman. General Petraeus could have said a little more ! This war is completely useless and stupid and Sarkozy is a big showman. But I agree it is good when he uses his actor talent for a good cause.
Wow!!… you have a variety here from all walks of life… I am bookmarking it! When I’m a need for a boost, I’ll stop back by. Thanks!!
I’m not too disappointed I don’t guess. I mean, surely I came in 14th? Surely…
I love to read about people going about their everyday lives and then performing some truly extraordinary, heroic act. It always makes me question whether I could/would step up to the plate if it had been me in that position. I’ve thrown myself in front of a car for my youngest son, so I know I could put myself in the line of danger for my children - but for a complete stranger? That, to me, is truly inspirational, exceptional and most certainly praise-worthy. Thank you so much for this list Claudia!
What a great list. As usual, you’re making me think.
There are some amazing people out there, and it’s good to remember the goodness instead of always focusing on the bad.
I agree with you about Brangelina ~ we should all use our influence (small or big) to make a difference in this world.
My TT is dedicated to my fellow TTeners, bloggers, family, and friends.
Live, laugh, love, and learn in 2008!
I agree with you on #1. Not sure about #4 though. He seems a bit obnoxious sometimes… (Not that Bush isn’t!)
Such an excellent post. Very uplifting. Thank you!
This is why I love you so much.
You have to love a woman with brains, a view, a heart, and a voice!
That is the best TT I have ever seen. Bravo
I love Queen Rania! Great list — this is a fabulous change from the cliche’d ones that come out this time of year.
Thanks for stopping by my blog!
~Maria
http://www.jubileeonearth.com
What a thoughtful T-13 allowing us to revisit events of 2007 in a thought-provoking manner. Thank you for sharing.
Hugs and blessings,
Fabulous list, and very inspiring. My inspiration this year has been from Dr. Jim Richards of Huntsville, AL. He shares the Gospel in a refreshing way, emphatically states that God is not mad at you no matter what, and has shown us how to walk out the Christian life in a manner that was clearly the intended manner by Christ himself.
TM
Yen - When I think of how often I have failed to participated in my own Democracy…. Yes, these brave monks give me shivers.
LeeAnn - There is so much good in the world. We just have to turn our attention there.
Joyful days - I don’t do “run of the mill” well… not my cup of tea!
Shoshana - These folks inspired me this year, got my attention. Hurray!
Natalie - The Colorado Troopers are so brave, your husband as well. The poor families…. They are in my prayers.
Candy - It so hard to stop thinking about myself. I’m so interesting!
I need a lot of reminders to get busy.
Grace - I hope you have a wonderful New Year as well!
Gattina - I think it’s amazing that Petraeus said anything - and yes, he could have said more. It’s true about Sarkozy. (Shrugging) Every Frenchman I know is a bit of a showboat. Then again…. every man that I know….
Dee - Glad I could give you a boost!
Slick - Yes, yes, you do inspire…. I apologize for hurting your feelings.
Amy Palko - I believe that in that moment of danger, every human being is family. Or at least that’s what I hope.
Nila - Thinking is good. There is so much good Nila. You have to find what inspires you!
CajunVegan - You know, I have been so impressed with Brangelina. I’m not sure what strikes me so deeply. I think it’s just that idea to do what you can, where you can, when you can. We think so often in the grand gesture - while people like them plug away day after day, year after year.
Angelle - Yes, Hugo Chavez can be obnoxious. I don’t trust the press we get with him. Where oil is concerned, honest media seems to waver.
Mr. Fabulous - Get busy Fabbie! There’s lots to do!
Kelly - Gosh, the best TT you’ve ever seen?? Really?
Maria - Queen Rania is an amazing human being. We are lucky to live in her time.
StoryTeller - Hugs and blessings to you as well!
OrneryWife - Good for you for finding your inspiration. And how delicious to hear that God isn’t angry. Very refreshing!
Thanks very much for this encouraging post! I hope you’ll have a wonderful start into 2008
Happy TT! Greets Julia
You always put things into perspective. What an interesting TT!
Just getting back into blogsville. Missed reading your posts!
Claudia, fabulous list of people! Glad you remembered the Northern Ireland…
And thanks for visiting my blog.
I love uplifting, positive T13s, and yours certainly is! Thank you
Thanks for reminding me to review this question. I always told my children that there were a few mean people in the world but that most people are good. I think goodness is innate. Now I have to go give your question some more thought.
A fantastic post. Your choices for your list of thirteen are indeed inspirational. I am particularly pleased that you included Chavez and the Buddhist Monks in Rangoon.
Thanks for reminding so many of us not to sit around and wallow in the world’s misery, but to revel in the world’s remaining good.
Happy Thursday, C!
Although some people are sick of hearing about Brad and Angelina, I don’t mind them because they are actually trying to make a positive difference in this world.
I had forgotten about the Lane Garrison story. Accountability can be scarce these days… esp. in Hollywood. Thanks for the reminder.
Julia - I’m glad I could encourage a little.
Jill - I’m glad you’ve returned to blogville!
Mary T - I think No. Ireland is heaven on earth - so beautiful. It’s also where my family was tossed out of so the resolution of the troubles holds a special place in my heart.
Janet - Uplifting is important, I think!
Colleen - I must hold those inspirational people in front of me. Otherwise, I too get bogged down in the muck of negativity.
Squirrelly - I think it’s very hard to speak your truth - especially when it’s unpopular. I admire both Chavez and the monks for having the courage to speak their truth.
Samantha K - Oh, you can wallow, go ahead. As Angelina Jolie says, “I’ve just got too much to do!” Me too!
Malcolm - I never tire of people who try. Their struggles and triumph are so inspirational!
This is an awesome list!
I wish I could say that I’m inspired by people more than I’m saddened by them, but…not so far. Maybe in 2008?
My Thursday 13 is up!
What a great list of amazing people! Thanks for visiting my TT.
You put a lot of thought into your list for this week. It was nice to read as I have not heard of most of those people.
It’s not often one runs into a perfect “TT” list… this is one of those times. Wow… excellent choices. I hate being so “glib”, but you’ve summed everything up exquisitely. Great people and true inspirations.
Angelika - There are so many sad things in the world that I also get overwhelmed. I try to keep the inspiration in front of me so that I remember there’s a whole round picture.
Tommie - I am still laughing about your blog. I have no idea why I think it’s so funny - I just do!
Laura - Isn’t it weird that we hear so much about Paris, Lindsey and Britney (who do nothing) but almost nothing about people who invest in the world?
Matthew James Didier - Wow. exquisite!?! Cool.
great list
Wow, now my “Dig my crazy black stockings!” sounds sorta lame, huh? An excellent post; one of those that makes me think maybe we ought to be able to vote somewhere for the best TT of the week — this would get mine
Claudia,
I love your TTs, but this one is exceptional. You always make me think and I love that! Thanks for sharing all this year. You have made a difference in my life.
Happy New Year
This is truly a beautiful list. I can only disagree about Chavez, but that’s just me. Thanks for sharing this wonderful testament to human goodness.
She - What did you like?
Pop Tart - Gosh, thanks. Can I have your black stockings as a prize?
Vixen - I’m glad I could participate in your journey. TT-land is so very cool.
Missy - I hear you about Chavez, I do. I’m just not confident that we are getting the unbiased truth. When oils is involved, and Venezuela has a lot (more than the Saudis), everything gets screwy.
Outstanding list and very powerful…especially number 13. Thank you!
Fantastic List Claudia! Sometimes I think it’s not necessarily the people themselves who are inspiring, but their actions - which you laid out nicely!
And nope - no German’s in my family - the parents just wanted to name their kids things that were unique!
I guess when my children become parents, everyone can call me by my first name! HA!
Happy TT!
I agree with #13 especially. I’ve come across some truly inspiring people online this year! And thank you for such an inspiring 13
Have a happy new year!
Queen Rania, Brad & Angelina are my favourites, I think.
Thanks for visiting my resolutions TT.
Penelope Anne - Gosh, thank you for being inspirational!
Nana - Oh, I so agree. People are flawed. Yet their actions are amazing.
Danielle - Isn’t it amazing?! So many inspirational people on-line.
Tink - Great choices!
Interesting list. Like the majority of the folks you mentioned.
Have a great TT!
~Harris.
Wow –both humbling and inspiring at the same time
What an inspirational way to start the new year. Everyone has it in them to make a difference. Even we do our little part by volunteering at a no-kill cat rescue shelter. You make me want to look for ways to do more!
Harris - I’m glad to strike an interest!
Slip of a Girl - Yes, very humbling and inspiring!
Daisy the Curly Cat - Good for finding something that’s important to you and striving to make a difference!
Now that was an inspiring list. I am glad to see John McCain getting credit for standing up on the torture issue, despite the political down sides. While I despise Sinn Fein and Ian Paisley, I am inspired by you to admire their decision to try to achieve peace in northern Ireland. Some of these people I haven’t heard of before, so thanks. You’re right that it’s important to see the positive things people do.
thanks for visiting mine!
Claudia, this list is very powerful. It forced me to face issues that I usually duck. Thanks for reminding me what is really important in the span of a life.
By the way, the Temperance card you asked about on my blog can be seen as Forgiveness, of skillful sculpting and repair, carefully turning one thing into another with charismatic dexterity.
this is a very inspirational list. your TT’s are so thought-provoking.
Damozel - People are complicated. Situations are difficult to really understand. I think we can only look at what someone is doing for inspiration. When we delve into the being, the essence, the goodness or badness of any individual, we will find their glaring flaws. It’s very popular now to call that “smart”. I guess I don’t think it’s so smart anymore.
Rian Fike - Gosh I could learn a lot from you. What you are saying makes so much sense. Thanks.
Jehara - Cool! I’m glad to share my inspiration.
Once in awhile I come across a TT list that leaves a great imprint on my spirit. Your list did just that. Thank you for taking the time to put in perspective some really great things people do out there. Things we should all do, if even in a small way. Have a great New Year!
Toodles, Maryanne
This is a beautiful list. It is always wonderful to see someone truly inspired when it would be easier to be bitter and withdrawn. Congratulations on overcoming it and looking beyond to the truths beyond the darkness.
~X
Maryanne - I think we all have influence. We can all make a difference, in our own little ways. That’s very inspirational to me! How nice to imprint your soul!
Xakara - Bitter and withdrawn is very safe. But alas, not in my nature. I am grateful for the people and situations which inspired me - forced me to be me.
Wonderful list! Thank you for sharing these inspirational stories with us.
Wow! What an interesting post. I had not heard of a lot of those folks before, but they were all inspiring stories. You definitely have your priorities straight, Claudia.
I hope you had a fabulous Christmas! I am still catching up with all my blogging, and have not had a chance to visit my favorite blogs for a few days. But, I’m baaaack.
Happy New Year!
Cheers.
A very thought-provoking and inspirational list indeed. As someone living in Israel, I’ve been particularly inspired by the courageous actions of Ian Paisley and Martin McGuinness. If they can do it, surely we can too.
Dragonheart and Merlin - Sorry no cats.
Josie - It amazed me how much press people who do nothing get, while people who really strive get so little.
Robin - I teared up when I saw your: “if they can do it, surely we can too.” From your mouth to God’s ears.
Excellent list. Very, very good. I like #3 more and more.
Sorry to be so late in responding to your visit to The Pink Flamingo.
SJR
The Pink Flamingo
Interesting, well-thought out list.
There are so many good people and good things that happen in the world, despite all of the insanity that also takes place. It’s nice to be reminded of it.
SJ Reidhead - I appreciate the visit.
Nancy Austin - Glad to tickle your interest.
Los Angelista - I try to keep it right out in front of me so that I remember at all times to balance - good and bad. There is so much good that’s lost among the infrequent craziness and bad.
That’s an admirable list. Altho I don’t agree with you on some of them, I certainly agree with your reasoning behing it. You did a lot of work girl!!
Great job!
Thanks for stopping bu my blog
An interesting list. It just shows that people can be inspiring at some time in their life even when we generally do not agree with/like them. Most people are not all bad,or all good. It would be nice if these people would be consistant and do the “good” things more often.. Other people are naturally inspiring.
Have a fun day
I’m late in stopping by this week, but I’m certainly glad I did! It’s a wonderful reminder that there’s inspiration out there if you look for it. Thanks!
Odat - Well, it is my list afterall…
Mickey - I guess we’d have to all agree on what is “good”, right? I think people are all gray.
Darla - Yes, there’s a lot to be inspired by in the world.