“Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is important that you do it.” – Gandhi

In life, there are so many places to find inspiration…in nature, music or art, within words and even in a glance.  Inspiration cannot be placed in a box….it is boundless.  One of my favorite places to find inspiration is through stories, especially those that have been passed down.  There are countless women who may have thought that their acts were insignificant, yet they inspired so many of us.  Although it was virtually impossible to narrow down, I chose 12 women who brought the world encouragement of their own and who may just bring you a little inspiration today!

• Oprah Winfrey – Let’s get this one out of the way.  You know how much we love the work Oprah has done and continues to do. Despite the pressures she must face (because we all know she doesn’t have to do this), she has continued to stand in the forefront of spiritual change doing her best to bring inspiration, hope and healing to so many through her teachings.  Truly one of the greatest teachers of all time…and I am grateful to be her student.
• Eleanor Roosevelt – As the wife and political aide to President Roosevelt, Eleanor made her own incredible contributions especially in the field of human rights. “When will our consciences grow so tender that we will act to prevent human misery rather than avenge it?”  Standing up for the greater good…and doing it when so few women were taken seriously. Dare to do what is right!
• Aung San Suu Kyi – Aung San Suu Kyi is a Nobel Peace Prize winner and a pro-democracy leader in Burma who was held under house arrest by the opposition for 13 of the past 19 years for her role in trying to bring political change to Burma.  Reminding the world to “Please use your liberty to promote ours,” Aung San Suu Kyi was finally released in November of 2010 serving as a strong reminder that we all need to stand up for what we believe.
• Eunice Shriver – In an interview with CBS News in 2004, Mrs. Shriver’s son Robert said, “My mom never ran for office, and she changed the world. Period. End of story.”  So true!  Not only was she a dogged advocate and trailblazer for the disabled, she created the Special Olympics.  She was the kind of woman who got things done and no one dared to refuse.  Grounded in service to others, Eunice stood as a great example of reaching out to those who need us.  Through service, we can change the world.
• Rosa Parks – In order to make a difference, sometimes you just have to stand up!  When Rosa refused to give up her bus seat to a white man, she indirectly led to some of the most significant civil rights legislation in the history of the United States.  Although she minimized her role, she became one of the most well respected figures in the civil rights movements. Taking a stand that you may find insignificant CAN change the world.
• Princess Diana of Wales – There are so many reasons I could mention Lady Di in this category, but I wanted to highlight one that changed my life.  Princess Diana was the first person I saw on television holding children and families that the world pretended didn’t exist.  A champion of unpopular causes, Diana brought worldwide attention to people living with HIV or AIDS, leprosy, cancer, homeless youth, victims of landmines and so much more.  She brought awareness to many causes and elevated all of our desires to reach out and make the world a better place.
• Susan B. Anthony – Not only did Susan B. Anthony work hard to promote women’s and workers’ rights, including the right to vote, she fought against slavery.  People are often afraid of rocking the boat.  Change can be scary.  Without women like Susan, I am certain the world would be different.  Never forget that although it is easier to stand up in a crowd…someone has to be the first.
• Mother Teresa – Devoting her life to the service of the poor and homeless, Mother Teresa became an international icon for caring.  Her selfless service for thousands of sick and dying people in Calcutta earned her the Nobel Peace prize.  She was the ultimate example of giving of oneself and a reminder to help those in need…a vital lesson for civilization.
• JK Rowling – Within a few years, J.K.Rowling’s world was turned upside down and our world was changed forever.  An author and the creator of the phenomenal best-selling Harry Potter series, she wrote the initial book as a single mother trying hard to make ends meet.  After being turned down by MANY publishers, she never gave up…and we are grateful.  Although her story is amazing by itself, one of the most important things she did was rejuvenate the imagination and creativity of both children and adults.  I can’t even imagine a world without Harry Potter!
• Annie Sullivan – The name may not ring a bell for some, but Annie Sullivan had strength, stamina and the perseverance that so many of us pray for.  As Helen Keller’s teacher, Annie spent years fighting the odds and never giving up.  She was not only innovative, but one of the most patient teachers…if not the most.  She stands as a reminder that with time and patience, anything is possible.
• Gloria Steinem – A writer and an activist, Gloria became involved in feminist rights and social justice movements over forty years ago.  Now wearing many hats and covering many causes, she has never stopped speaking out on the need for equality in many areas of our lives.  Despite the changes and progress society may see, Gloria knows that you cannot rest.  Once people stop, there is a potential for progress to stop.  Always keep your eye on the issues that matter to you.
• Maya Angelou – As one of America’s favorite poets, actress, author and civil rights advocate, Maya has made her way into the hearts of so many.  An incredibly inspiring woman who symbolizes both grace and strength…the world is a much better place with her in it.

You may write me down in history
With your bitter, twisted lies,
You may trod me in the very dirt
But still, like dust, I’ll rise.

– Maya Angelou from Still I Rise

 

So my question today is…..who has inspired you?