by Irene C. Dasalla

Created on: December 02, 2008

Lives to Learn From

On the day you were born, that is when your story began. It is a humble beginning of a wonderful tale that people will be eager to find out. Where were you born, how you lived your life, what makes you tick, your philosophies in life, your greatest accomplishments, your love, greatest lessons learned, your aspirations. Your story is known to millions of people, many of whom, you have never met, but you are more than happy to share it with them, because just like you draw inspiration from the lives of others, people might be inspired by your story as well.

I have come to know and admire the lives of amazing people of history through their biographies. I have learned a great deal from their experiences and it is really an eye opener to know that these wonderful people are just like you and I. They are no different than any of us. They go through difficulties in their finances, relationships, self-esteem, and other areas of life just like everyone else. Oftentimes we assume that their lives are just so easy compared to ours because we only see them when they achieve their success. More often than not, they have lived a more difficult life than us.

A lesson of courage and determination was demonstrated by Liz Murray, a 17 year old girl, homeless, and was born from parents who suffered from AIDS. Her beginning did not prevent her from completing high school in two years and earned a scholarship to go to Harvard. Coco Chanel, the famous fashion designer, who was abandoned by her father after her mother died, persevered through tough times in life and love. Her lack of formal education was not a hindrance to become known and successful, instead, she capitalized on her gift of using her hands and creativity to make something extraordinary which enhances the beauty of women around the globe. Beatrix Potter, the famous children's book writer and painter, used her vivid imagination to create the life she wanted. She demonstrated a great faith in herself when others did not believe in her especially her own mother. Barrack Obama, the first African American President of the United States of America, did not let his race discouraged him to run for the highest position. His strong belief in himself and what he can do for America won over millions of criticisms. Fantasia Barrino, a single mother, who did not have much of a future, but by using her voice, she won the heart of 65 million viewers who voted her the winner of the 3rd season of the syndicated show American Idol. Had she let her dream die, she won't be the person that she is right now. Bill Gates, a college drop out, who built a software empire, and now became one of the greatest philanthropists of our time.

These people are just few of the ordinary people who lived and are living extraordinary lives not because of where they came from and how they started, but by the lives that they help create themselves. Their courage, determination, and passion fuel them to follow their dreams and achieve something that others may consider impossible. Their mistakes serve as lessons to them and to every one that challenges in life are indeed catalysts to bring out the best in each and every one of us.

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