This morning, I ran into a coworker who goes to the same place I do for physical therapy and massage. Apparently, my physical therapist told her that I was one of the bright spots in her day. I was completely flabbergasted! It was excellent to hear, especially because her impact on my life (my stress, and my physical pains resulting from said stress) has been life-changing.
I told my coworker that she was also filled with 100% awesome, because she is. And because she is, she told me of something that I can only give her credit for. She mentioned that she and a friend established a “mutual admiration society.” And, as a result, she and I established one right then and there. I suppose I have one, of sorts, with my physical therapist too.
In addition, a student contacted me to let me know that I had reignited his passion for school and research. And I realized how people can touch one another in small ways, every day, sometimes without even knowing it.
I started thinking about friends I really admire. And authors I admire. Especially those who reignite my passion for life, writing, and other things.
So here’s a list of a few. I will also be tagging them on this post, in case they want to pass the baton to others (and keep the admiration going!):
Angelica R. Jackson – An excellent writer and critique partner. She also runs an annual auction, Pens for Paws, to raise money for Fat Kitty City, a no-kill animal shelter. How cool is that?
Alison Kemper – Like Angelica, as a crit partner, Alison really helped me hone my craft. And, she’s also a librarian! Her debut novel, DONNA OF THE DEAD, is forthcoming.
Erin Kellison – Erin gave an excellent workshop at a local writers’ meeting. She’s super nice, and really knows her stuff. Her most recent novel, SOUL KISSED, is now available for purchase on Kindle, Nook and Kobo. And, she also has a book in the Dark and Dangerous Box Set, which releases tomorrow, October 17!
Gini Koch – A whirlwind of greatness–and also gives excellent workshops. She writes everything–including supermodel aliens and ghosts in retirement homes. Her newest book, ALIEN RESEARCH, will debut in December.
Eliza Green – An author kind enough to let me in on some knowledge of Irish culture! Her debut novel, BECOMING HUMAN, can be found here.
FeakySnucker – Another fellow writer/librarian who makes me laugh hysterically. She also agreed to be interviewed on my blog (forthcoming).
Jennifer Baker – An excellent writer and friend–and one of the sweetest people I know. She also writes flash fiction at Femme Fatale.
T. Michael Martin – Wrote THE END GAMES. Excellent writer and vlogger with an awesome YouTube channel.
And this is only the tip of the iceberg. I’ll likely do a follow-up post with other names. So, happy Wednesday, all, and be sure to spread some love.
Who do you admire and why? Who helps you reignite your passion? Feel free to comment.
Yes, Gini deserves total admiration, and I'm proud to be a minion in her bookish takeover! Authors who take the time to have friendships on social media — and not just have us all worshiping at their feet — are worth cultivating. I also admire people who work in stressful service industries, and I make a point of telling nurses, policeman, military (current and passed), social workers, and others how much I appreciate them. I love to brag to companies about their employees. Last year, I purposely began a personal admiration list in my head. On it is every instance of a healthy person who has married a person who was disabled at the time of the courtship. That's admirable. Also on the list are disabled-disabled double matches. There's hope for me yet.
Aww, thanks! It's definitely mutual–you've been a help to me too!
Lori–I totally agree!
Angelica–and you've helped me a ton.
Mutual love, admiration, and *smootchies* right back to all! And great idea, Karen, love it! (And you're on my list, too. :-D)
Thanks, Gini! You're absolutely amazing in every possible way.