This week Awesome Stories brings you connections, meaning from death, love, and moving beyond poverty.
You Matter
We have the power to make a difference, by interacting with people in a deeply personal way. ~ Cheryl Rice
Last year I featured the You Matter Marathon. This year, I’m happy to report that Cheryl Rice and the YMM are going strong with their efforts to empower people to make connections with the words “You Matter.” When I first heard the words out loud and received the cards, I was touched deeply. Their mission is to create more connections between people and communities. You can read more about Cheryl and her mission to change lives in this article called Two Words That Can Change Lives.
Facing Death
Paul and Lucy Kalanithi are inspiring models in how to face death with courage and authenticity. When Paul was diagnosed with lung cancer, they decided to be as honest as possible and focus on Paul’s quality of life. Paul even wrote a memoir about facing death during his decline. They learned to find beauty and meaning while facing death. Their courage is an inspiration in how to embrace the full range of life. Watch Lucy’s touching TED Talk to learn more about their inspiring story and the choices that can lead to more acceptance and meaning.
Love
Here is a Daily Good article spotlighting love. It explores various stories and ways that we can love. My favorite story is about Hannah Brencher who started writing love letters to leave around New York City. The letters helped her deal with sadness and loneliness. I’ve had a similar experience while writing for my blog. Writing about stories that inspire others has helped me to find more meaning and connection. Thank you to all the readers of this blog. I appreciate you!
Beyond Poverty
Sherry Riva formed Compass Working Capital to help low-income families learn the skills needed to rise up from poverty and build wealth. Most assistance programs only focus on the income, but not building wealth. Compass provides financial coaching programs that empower families with low incomes to build assets, learn new skills, achieve goals, and become financially secure. With early success in Boston, they are exploring options to spread their successful model around the country to help many more families rise up.
May your week be full of opportunities to love, build skills, and find meaning amongst life’s challenges. Rise Up!
Love the “You Matter” marathon! Oh, I so yearn to do something like this, too. I couldn’t swing it while I was doing the LIFE Project (I have a very tall intentions list, lol), but I do intend to do a walking marathon, soon. To march for all good things. Love that! What a touching TED talk. And the other two stories you mentioned touched my heart. Love letters? Oh my goodness! I MUST incorporate something like that into my February LIFE Project. 🙂
I hope you have a wonderful weekend! Sending hugs.
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I’m glad you can find more inspiration in these stories Cynthia. I’d say your plate is full enough for now. I hope you include play and downtime. If not, I’ll send my merry band of misfit muses your way. 🙂
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Truly inspiring
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Thanks Annette. I hope they inspire your week.
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This book was incredible!
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Love this post!
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Thanks Cindy. Have a wonderful week!
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The video was one of the most moving things I’ve ever heard. Being a reader here is my pleasure! Have a wonderful week!
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Wonderful Ka. They have an amazing story and Lucy’s video is very touching.
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Thanks, Brad. I couldn’t have thought of a more poignant way to start my morning. Lucy’s video is the truth!
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You’re most welcome. thanks for sharing in this journey Ka.
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Likewise!
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🙂
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Great stories again Brad – I particularly love the idea of the love letters, which I’d never heard about, so much so I’ve added the book to my wish list to learn more about it.
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Thanks Andrea. I love her story and love letters too. I remember the feeling of connection when I send hand written cards. 🙂
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Great articles each and everyone, Brad!! As always you do a great job putting inspiring information out there!! Thanks for all that you do!
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You’re most welcome Kurt.
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What a touching video Brad.. What strength was shown by both.. Wiping tears, and what beautiful lessons learned.. And learning to talk and speak, To make it known our choices..
Thank you for sharing this Brad.. such love shown here..
Love and Blessings Brad
. Even in sadness there is Joy..
Sue 🙂
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Agreed. Somewhat like the conversations we’re having with Mom. Challenging but heartfelt.
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