I am a firm believer of making a difference in the lives of others as it is not only a rewarding accomplishment, both instantly and in the long-term period, but an inspiration and motivation to take on more challenges for spiritual growth. I have my parents to thank for this trait as they are one of the most charitable and humble people I’ve ever known. They are my role models and I’m the proudest daughter.

We do charitable acts for so many reasons:

  • Performing a self-less act
  • Being part of a solution
  • Personal development and self growth
  • Good karma – What goes around comes around
  • Realization and gratefulness for being fortunate in many areas of our lives
  • A clear conscience

And the list goes on…

My most recent reward has been participating in the Underwear Affair 10k run on July 10, 2010 helping fund cancers below the waist organized by The BC Cancer Foundation. It was my very first charitable race and as soon as I signed up for it I began to raise money and train: a week prior to the Big Day!

I’m sure many of you can relate to the positive effects of participating in such events but I’d like to share a few memorable moments I experienced during this journey, which marked high points in my life.

The quest for raising the funds by reaching out to friends and family was really fun. Their strong support and love reassured me of their determination to help me achieve my goal and beyond. I was not in this alone. In my eyes, they all had their running shoes on and ran with me to the finish line.

 

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I was also deeply touched by those who are currently battling cancer thanking me for my efforts, even though my run was a drop in the ocean in comparison to the challenges they face on a daily basis. It was one of the most humbling moments of my life.

And last but not least, the moment the race began.  We were preparing for “take off”, the anticipation was building up, everyone started counting down: “5, 4, 3, 2, 1”…

I started running and moving with the crowd and felt this overwhelming positive energy and light around me. We were all there for one reason and it was so powerful, standing up for believing we can beat cancer. People were standing on both sides of the streets and cheering for every single one of us running by. For the first 10 minutes of the race, my tears were coming down my face uncontrollably! So many great emotions were going through me. I was so proud to be part of it all.

I hold these moments in my present, not past. They are my motivation and drive to my next challenge.

Please feel free to share your thoughts, motivating stories, and lasting moments  here.