Inspiration is Contagious

Have you ever enjoyed a series of weeks that were full of people and experiences that truly excite you? I have been on a lucky streak lately and honestly can't tell whether I am manifesting it myself or am just experiencing a flurry of good fortune. My gut tells me that both may be in play.

I am suddenly hyper aware of the unique and glorious passions that inspire others. For example, I recently volunteered at a zoo event that included experts and caretakers from zoos all around the US. My role was to sort trash to hit a zero-waste target (we did it!) but, as sorted, I met the most interesting and inspired people. At the beginning of the shift, I met a woman who had served for many years as the lone composter at the zoo. Imagine the size of that job....it has to be a huge challenge. She told me that, after years in the role, she was retiring.

When I suggested that she was due for a rest, she explained that she had created a new 501(c)3 entity focused on creating and providing female hygiene products to Africa. Rather than rest on her laurels, she found a need and crafted a brilliant plan to meet it. The zoo collaborates with a unit called the Black Mambas. The Black Mambas are the world’s first all-female anti-poaching unit, dedicated to protecting wildlife in South Africa's Greater Kruger National Park through community engagement and innovative conservation strategies. When the team visits the US each year, they bring suitcases full of handmade art that they construct out of confiscated traps and weapons. Her brilliant idea? Send them home with suitcases full of reusable feminine products, handmade in her own living room. Awe inspiring creativity.

Then, I went to a series of National Geographic scientific lectures (night skies, penguins and barrier reef). I learned something new in each lecture but also left each lecture feeling comforted by the brilliance and dedication of the speakers. Each scientist has managed to build a life of commitment and passion for the earth. One was 8 months pregnant and, as I listened to her stories of exploration and life on the barrier reef, I was struck with embarrassment that I had actually been too lazy to go to Trader Joe's earlier in that day.

I also had the wonderful opportunity to attend a gala event honoring members of the LA Police Reserve. My brother-in-law, among others, was honored for his contributions. He served the city for decades, retired, and then joined the reserves. Reservists serve the city by filling actual police roles as unpaid volunteers. The dedication is remarkable. What was stunning, however, was the presentation of anniversary awards for those who have been long serving. There were group of recipients who had served 25, 30, 35 and 40 years. Shockingly, the last recipient had served as an unpaid volunteer for 45 years. Imagine that...45 years (technically a lifetime) of serving his community. Breathtaking.

I like this constant flow of inspiration. I hope it's contagious and I hope you catch it too.