I grew up in an environment that shaped me, as we all do. It wasn't easy, we didn't have a lot during the toughest times, but it certainly could have been worse. I had more responsibilities than the average teenager, and I likely had a little more ambition than the average person. My mom set an incredible example. I started working, volunteering and traveling... at a very young age. I had very little handed to me. I spent time getting to know interesting people, and I was lucky to meet great people who gave me opportunities and put me in a position to grow and see new perspectives. I worked hard; I followed my heart; I had fun. I screwed up.... and most importantly - I learned.
I am lucky to be one of those people who thinks about the affect people, events and decisions have on the world. Look at past blog posts on this blog from '09 and 2010, and that is obvious. I try to ask 'what more can I do?' several times a week, and I have people in my life that inspire me: friends, family, co-workers. I admire people who I follow and interact with in virtual communities: blogs, Twitter, Facebook and more that motivate me to be better, do more, serve others, and strive for excellence. I love all of you who make such a difference in the world.
Wherever you are next year will be in part because of where you are and what you're doing today. Every moment, interaction, choice or lack thereof makes a difference in your life and in the lives of others. As I have blogged before, remember you are that person to someone, and how you act, what you say or don't say, and the time you take to care about others creates change in the world. Make it positive, assume positive intent, and lead doing the right things for the right reasons. You can't imagine what a difference you will make.
