where I get my inspiration

I have one group of people with whom I work twice a week and do a short musical workout session. Few of them walk, none without crutches or a walker. They all have huge physical and/or psychological challenges. The kind that would devastate any one of us average people. I was very choked up and scared when I first saw them. I thought I would be working with a group of people who were not necessarily medically, but financially challenged and fighting their way to make a better life for themselves. I thought I could bring some regularity and some accomplishment to them by providing a positive environment where they are truly making progress and enjoy the process. I thought I could strenghten their motivation and cohesion and all of the other good values that exercise and good mentorship offers to all.

Well, it turns out that they have provided a challenge to me and have given me the most fulfilling two half hours a week that I have ever had! I look forward to going there and seeing them. I look forward to playing our music and seeing smiles and fatigue and more smiles. I always wish there was more I could do for them and for more than just this group. They know they can count on me to be there and to be energetic and entertaining. They know it's going to be a bit of hard work and they get each other to come to the sessions even if there are other things going on or they have to be a little late. There is no pressure, no judgement, no negativity of any kind during our workouts. People stop and look in to see what the commotion is about. Staff comes in and starts dancing around or doing our exercises for a minute or two. They sometimes recognize me in the supermarket or outside the institution and make sure they greet me and play me a complement about how much my program is enjoyed and appreciated.

Program. ? . I am just there. Just there to soak up their spiritual strenght that makes me tear up as I leave. I am just there because I know they like me there and I am never ill received or dismissed. I am just there because it makes ME a better person, a stronger person, a more humble human being. I am just there... and I love it!