I’ve had many influences in my life that have helped shape who I am today — as an individual, an athlete, an entrepreneur. I want to credit these people, places, and events. I’m hoping to make this a regular topic to post about. Life influences are really important, even when you don’t notice them happening.
Two people who stand out particularly are my parents. Of course they stand out — they are my parents. But there are two specific instances that I can pinpoint that shaped who I am today.
My mom was present at every track and cross country meet. Even when I was the slowest and laziest runner, she valiantly cheered me on. I’m sure she was angry and embarrassed when I shot her a glare of contempt as I practically walked by at a snail’s pace to the finish, but she never wavered. As a preteen and teenager, I was so angry and so embarrassed. I don’t even know why I bothered running. But I did, and my mama was there to support me every step of the way.
7th Grade Cross Country team. That’s me circled in red.
I may look happy in this photo but at meets I was one unhappy gal!
My dad has been an amazing influence as well. When I was 12 he suffered a heart attack. He was told he needed to change his lifestyle. So he did. He bought a treadmill, my parents revamped our diet, and he took better care of himself. It was through his interval training plan that allowed me, as an overweight adult, to successfully fall back into running. Of course at the time I was so completely self-absorbed and mean that I didn’t even notice or care about any of these changes, except I knew I didn’t like skim milk (which now, by the way, I love).
Without my dad’s training plan, I never would have gotten to where I am today. It was the run/walk that pushed me further into running. And now here I am, training for a 10-miler. And I look forward to the spring when I can perhaps add a half marathon.
It’s these little things that happen in life, the random moments and minor changes that seem to stick with us for a lifetime. I never in my life thought that running by my mom with a scowl on my face would remain in my memory forever. I never realized that I would be using the exact same workouts that my dad did to get on the fitness bandwagon almost two decades ago.
The truth of the matter is that it is these little moments that make a lasting impression. It is the people closest to us that influence us the most, without giving the slightest warning. This realization over the last couple of years has given me pause to make sure I am the best mom, friend and person I can be.
So, thanks mom and dad. Thanks for making me who I am and always rooting me on!
Who has been a positive influence or role model in your life?
How have they impacted who you are today?
