Find Inspiration, Reflect Deeply

In any kind of social change work, I think it is important to adopt the practice of seeking inspiration wherever you can find it and then internalize it by reflecting in a deep and meaningful way. Trying to make the world a better place can be draining! It can sometimes seem like change isn’t happening fast enough and that there are not enough people behind your mission to reach a critical mass. The way I counteract this feeling is by seeking inspiration and reflecting deeply.

Recently, my inspiration has been found in the hearts and minds of young people. I am continually invigorated by the energy and passion of the young people in the inclusion movement. I had a “my cup runneth over” moment recently at KIT’s Over the Edge fundraiser. There were several wonderful examples of youth advocacy and I expect to be sharing more about this over the next few weeks.

Here are my first two heroes- Tali and Malia Rappaport. Actively involved in the I Am Norm campaign, these two inclusion super sisters formed their own rappel team and raised $2,000 for KIT. On the day of the rappel they set up a table to promote the I Am Norm campaign and promoted the message of inclusion to every attendee. Tali has used her musical talent to write and produce a theme song for I Am Norm (available on iTunes!) and had our DJ Ryan, from Positive Adventures, play it as they scaled down the 33 floors of the Hyatt. These two blow me away. The positive energy, the devotion and the way they actively spread the message of inclusion is very exhilarating to me. And I love that they found pants to match their I Am Norm t-shirts.

                                                           Tali Rappaport beginning her 33 story rappel! 

When I feel like KIT’s message isn’t being heard, or that my voice isn’t loud enough to make a difference, I look at the young advocates that I am blessed to know. They will change this world for the better, and I can’t wait to see it happen.

Malia Rappaport still smiling as she descends the building. 

Inclusion is…powerful in the hands of young people!