Drive and Determination

I opened Outlook this morning to find a pdf presentation from an old friend. Tara isn't just any old friend, though. We've known each other 12 years and we have seen each other go through turbulent times - nothing for me like she has experienced. Tara has MS and it hit her hard and young (at 25). She has had good years and very, very bad years.A few months ago, Tara emailed me that she was going to ride in the 545 mile Aids Life Cycle in CA. She had been a cyclist in college and riding was near to her heart. She wanted the challenge and is passionate about the cause. This morning, I recieved the 22 page photo and text recap of her experience. Briefly reliving the ride with her through the pages left me feeling proud of her, but ashamed of myself. I have thought about all she has gone through since I've known her and to see her cycle 545 miles in hilly CA, I am amazed and humbled. She has never let MS stop her, slow her down, or alter her attitude or life. She has an inner spirit that glows, a drive and determination that surpasses most, and a true love of life and people.What the hell have I done lately?

(Yes, another Summer 08 post I made on myspace)