Who Inspires Me?

***Post written by Danielle Knudsen***

There are tons of famous people who have changed the world and left long-lasting imprints on those they inspire, many of which provide great inspiration in my life. Yet, as I reflect on my motivation and empowerment, I realize that I am consistently inspired by those who hold a lasting place in heart. My grandmother’s strength, courage and commitment deeply inspire me during good and bad times. My grandmother has struggled in the face of hardship and has repeatedly sought to achieve her goals despite the warnings of others.

Nana suffered from a stroke when I was about ten years old, leaving her paralyzed on the right side of her body, as well as speech impaired. Her disability warranted a complete change in lifestyle considering that what used to be everyday tasks suddenly became great accomplishments due to her handicap. After my grandmother suffered from the stroke, my family continually suggested that she live in a home with provided professional care, but she dismissed each and every suggestion. She was determined to live independently and provide for herself. Progressively Nana learned how to use her left side to move around her apartment to get ready in the morning, prepare a quick meal, etc. Of course this took great practice, along with frustration, but my grandmother began to become used to her changed life.

My grandmother’s persistence inspires me most of all. In lieu of her handicap, she created a fulfilling lifestyle. Nana became an active member of the social circle in her apartment complex. Her schedule was always filled with various events, such as card games, movie nights, dinner socials, among many others. One of her favorite and most memorable activities was riding her scooter on the highway to go shopping. During these trips, she always bought little trinkets for my family and me.

Of course when my family found out about Nana’s adventures they went crazy over the danger of riding a scooter in such a busy area of town, especially when you are disabled. Nana’s mind was set; she would not allow her disability to hamper her from doing what she loves most. I still have all the cute knick-knacks she bought me in my room, as constant reminders that “mind over matter,” can be true wisdom. Whenever I face a difficulty, I think of my Nana’s experiences in order to place myself into perspective. My Nana is definitely a great source of empowerment, courage and determination!

Who Inspires Me:

Fibromyalgia (new lat., fibro-, fibrous tissues, Gk. myo-, muscle, Gk. algos-, pain, meaning muscle and connective tissue pain; also referred to as FM or FMS) is a medical disorder characterized by chronic widespread pain, a heightened and painful response to pressure.

Why am I defining this really weird word, Fibromyalgia?
This condition is one of the many reasons why I chose who inspires me, my mother.

It may be really cliche to be inspired by your mom, since I am sure everyone has said that during some point in their life. However I could not think of another person to be inspired by unless I really had to research them. It may be inspiring to read about their life and hear their good deeds, but I do not think of them in a day to day basis. I feel like no one affects my life and my choices more than my mother has.

My mother has the chronic pain condition defined above, Fibromyalgia. It is an issue that she deals with everyday, with no known cure just drugs to numb the pain. But my mother does not let that constant pain and depression get to her. She is still a very motivated person, caring for my large family, our house, and our many animals because she does not let the pain get in the way of her goals and loved ones. She finds ways to help her body through vitamins, natural supplements, and exercise, not drugs. She also constantly worries for mine and my sibling's well beings, and is there whenever we need her. I don't think I will ever not feel loved by my mother.


It is hard to list the many ways she makes me proud to be her daughter, I just know that all these characteristics and more of my mother inspire me to work hard towards my dreams and to love others. It would be easy for my mom to give in and not try to be as normal as she used to be, or do as many things as she does in a day, but she doesn't give up. In turn this motivates me to not give up in anything I do, whether it be school related or just a simple action such as taking back a shirt at Kohls... :)

Inspiration is a great thing in life, and the ability to be inspired helps many become such great leaders. In this case I feel my mother has helped me posses a few great leadership qualities; inclusiveness, empowerment, and motivation. Without her I may not have these characteristics that I am so proud of.

What qualities make someone inspiring to you? These may be the same qualities you wish to achieve as a leader, a way to make yourself better. Think about it, maybe it will be your mother too. :)

Who Inspires Me?

One person who really inspires me is Maya Angelou. Her collection of work and life story is one to be cherished and remembered for generations to come. You can learn more about here here: www.mayaangelou.com

I'll leave you with one of my favorite pieces of hers, "Still I Rise"

You may write me down in history
With your bitter, twisted lies,
You may trod me in the very dirt
But still, like dust, I'll rise.

Does my sassiness upset you?
Why are you beset with gloom?
'Cause I walk like I've got oil wells
Pumping in my living room.

Just like moons and like suns,
With the certainty of tides,
Just like hopes springing high,
Still I'll rise.

Did you want to see me broken?
Bowed head and lowered eyes?
Shoulders falling down like teardrops.
Weakened by my soulful cries.

Does my haughtiness offend you?
Don't you take it awful hard
'Cause I laugh like I've got gold mines
Diggin' in my own back yard.

You may shoot me with your words,
You may cut me with your eyes,
You may kill me with your hatefulness,
But still, like air, I'll rise.

Does my sexiness upset you?
Does it come as a surprise
That I dance like I've got diamonds
At the meeting of my thighs?

Out of the huts of history's shame
I rise
Up from a past that's rooted in pain
I rise
I'm a black ocean, leaping and wide,
Welling and swelling I bear in the tide.
Leaving behind nights of terror and fear
I rise
Into a daybreak that's wondrously clear
I rise
Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave,
I am the dream and the hope of the slave.
I rise
I rise
I rise.