Steve PreFontaine

I am inspired by a lot of people...My favorite athlete though is Steve PreFontaine. I relate to him.

About ten years ago, I took a little road trip and visited my brother. It was in the middle of winter and I hunkered down to watch a movie in his den. He's always had a nice den - his own little bat cave. : ) He told me that I reminded him of an athlete, Steve PreFontaine and told me I should watch a movie about him. I nodded and forgot about it.

That night I could not sleep so I watched some telly. There was a movie Without Limits about a runner from Oregon. I got engrossed in it immediately. Fine acting by Billy Crudup and others.

The next morning, I rushed to keep up with my brother before he left for the day. We went out for coffee and I told him excitedly about the movie I had just watched. He nodded, drinking his coffee and said, "That's the one."

Here's Billy Crudup in Without Limits. 

It was so inspiring and galvanized me. It was exactly what I needed to see. : ) Just even writing about it now lights a fire in me.

Here are some photos of Steve PreFontaine.

These words he said resonates deeply with me.

"To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift."

Optimism

When I was a little kid, my parents taught me to be positive and never to speak or think badly of others. My mom reinforced this over the years, even when things were difficult or people were unkind. She always helped me see the positive and remain optimistic. She also reminded me to forgive and let go. Some days I found that very hard but still I did it anyways. I knew she was right. That along with discernment and gentleness has guided my life and helped me in school, college, business and life.

I have found that optimism drives positive change. It also makes for a very happy life!