There are very few life experiences that have completely altered who I am...moments that have profoundly changed me...simply because they occurred. And the metamorphosis each time was instantaneous. These rare moments can only be described as heaven-sent...I relish them even more because they are so few and far between. In fact, I can think of only a handful. Giving my heart voluntarily away to my husband that December night...giving birth to each of my two beautiful daughters along with my life's true purpose...giving my mind and personal resources willingly in order to raise funds and awareness for others in need.
Each time I have given fully...with absolutely no expectation of receiving anything in return...the love that I have felt as a result is utterly indescribable.
I'm anticipating another of those miraculous moments in the near future. No, I'm not getting remarried or having another child...but I am going to start on another journey of giving. I'm scared yet hopeful. Because I will never, ever forget the sight of those cancer survivors in Lake Tahoe just two short years ago cheering me on (along with 1,400 other riders)...children, families, strangers...holding signs thanking me for "saving" their lives. It was so humbling. It was so powerful. And all I did was raise some money and ride my bike. That's nothing compared to the struggle faced by those brave individuals who are undergoing experimental treatments and painful surgeries...unsure if they will be celebrating their next birthday.
I can't wait to give again.
