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Inspiration

While swimming on Saturday after a long night shift, I went to my local gym. Since the Chicago Triathlon is a month away, I knew I could not afford to miss any workouts so off I went. 

I put on my swim clothing and underwater iPod and proceeded to swim a mile. 

I was pleased. 

On a hot and hazy Saturday, there were only a few people at the pool at the local Sport and Health. I quickly showered and proceeded to the exercise room where I continued the second part of my workout on the bike. As I proceed to leave, a woman stopped me. She said, "Are you the woman who was swimming a long time in the pool?"  I smiled and nodded, "Yes."

She proceeded to speak about how she used to swim as a child, but doesn't swim any more. When she asked if I was on a swim team, I laughed. 

I proceed to tell her that I did not started swim lessons until age 43. She was shocked. She thought I had been swimming my entire life, but I have not. I proceeded to tell her about my swim journey.  We exchanged pleasantries and she said, "I admire you for learning to swim and now I am inspired to get back in the pool."  I smiled. 

You never know who is looking.  You may be a role model for someone and don't even know it.  You may inspire some to do something they never thought of doing. Just remember, people are watching. You may change someone's life just by being you and doing what you love. 

BTW...You don't have to be an expert or great at your activities.  You just have to have a willingness to try. 

Enjoy the journey. 



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