A Gift

Kancamagus Run 2005 - Sherpa & Nephews 

Many years ago, back when I was in the 9th grade (circa 1992) I had an assignment. The assignment was to write a one page paper about who it is in my life that inspires me. So, I sat down and typed up a riveting paper about how at the time in my life, and still today, my grandfather was my inspiration. He had had a major stroke, was now living in a wheelchair but refused to give up. He lived as normal a life as he could until the day he died and it was his courage, determination and faith that inspired me most. 

So when I got to my mothers house Christmas Eve I spotted a paper rolled up and wrapped with a bow placed in the Christmas Tree. I wondered what it was after seeing that it had a gift tag indicating that the gift was to me. A few hours later, with a sea of wrapping paper adding up all around the living room floor, after I had opened up a new pair of shoes, a calendar and a webcam... My nephew Timmy handed me the rolled up paper and told me that it was from his older brother Kenny.

I sat in the chair, unrolled the paper, and read what my nephew wrote. Almost 20 yeas after I had the assignment, my nephew Kenny had the same assignment as I. His paper was about who inspired him.. and why. As I read I felt that knot in my stomach, that feeling you get in your throat before you begin to cry. My eyes welled up as I continued to read. Here I was.. lacking motivation, gaining weight, feeling like a slob and now, in my hands was the best Christmas Gift I've ever received. Of all the times I've put my feet to the dirt or the road.. I've had it in my mind that I can only hope that my nephews will see my example and know that they too can do anything they put their mind to. And after 5 years of running.. I finally had in my hand, proof that it had worked.

Kenny wrote an immaculate letter about how I inspire him and the many ways that I have. From his examples to what it means to him and in living his own life, I was humbled, shocked, choked up.. and suddenly inspired once again. Every time I lace up my shoes.. I'll know that my work, my craft has worked. I've succeeded. Someone in my family got it.. and is living from the example.. there is no better gift to someone who strives to inspire others. I got the best gift of all though.. I heard it from family. A young, mature 13 year old boy with more talent at 13 then I think I've ever had in 29 years.. and in the end I had the Best Gift Ever.

Thanks Kenny. Merry Christmas

Uncle John