by Tina Shelnutt

Created on: May 20, 2008

Inspiration for me is found in the life of people who have overcome the odds regardless of the hindrances, which they have at hand. A disabled child, a parent who takes time to love and enjoy their children, an act of sacrifice and giving without expectations of receiving compensation of any kind.

My mother is a truly inspiring person. After my father died at age 36, Mom had to raise six kids on her own. She was faced with many trials and struggles, and yet somehow managed to keep us all fed, clothed and met all our needs. She taught us about God, love, respect, kindness, courtesy, importance of family, determination to work through our problems and never give up, hope, caring, giving, self-sacrifice, nurturing, steadfastness and creativity. She would always say, 'We will find a way'.

She has been a professional singer, construction equipment driver, artist, seamstress, gospel singer and speaker with a prison ministry, song writer, bookkeeper, cook, costume designer for plays, writer, TV show host, volunteer, and so much more.

When we couldn't find anyone who would rent to us because of the number of children in our family, Mom bought tents, beds, and all the camping equipment we would need and we lived in tents for three months. It was an awesome experience, which taught us many lessons in life and gave us great memories to share.

I have always felt that I would be a very positive influence on others if I had even a tenth of her love and determination, which she so openly shares.

My daughter Teresa is another inspiring person. At age one, Teresa became ill with Meningitis. She was in a coma, had a stroke, and almost died a few times over a course of two weeks, which left her with 80% brain damage. By the time her two-month stay was over at the hospital, she was a total vegetable: blind, deaf, and paralyzed. The doctors gave us no hope of her ever being able to see, hear, or move again.

Over the next seven months, we continued to pray and watched as Teresa started showing signs of improvement. First, she cried real tears for the first time in months; we cried out of joy that she could show emotions again. She gradually started moving her arm, her toes, trying to lift her head. She regained her eyesight and hearing (which took me two years to convince the doctors that she could hear again), to finally being able to sit up and walk with assistance. We were constantly taking her back to the hospital because the doctors couldn't believe the things we would tell them she could do.

Regardless of the pain, limitations, seizures and challenges, Teresa has always smiled and loved to give out hugs. She is a true conqueror and survivor. No, disability, body cast, brain surgery, hip surgery, heel surgery, and so many other set backs, has stopped Teresa from loving life in spite of it all.

People are hurting and struggling in this crazy world of ours. Yet, many still find a way to smile, overcome, and move on. They don't let life trials rob them of their joy and determination. They seek out others who they can help and know first hand how important it is to be there for one another.

I am a better person because of the everyday people who know what life is truly about. I love the company and influences of disabled/handicapped people, single moms, dads who spend time with their children, couples who truly love and respect each other, a large family who enjoys each others company and a spouse who loves me as much as I love him.

Have you inspired anyone today?

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