Inspire

I got back from G's YWCA luncheon about an hour ago. I am so proud of her. I know it takes many resources to put an event that huge together. I'd say almost 1,800 people attended. All of us fed. All of needing to be entertained. And inspired. A lot of people help with that. But, still, I know how hard G works to make sure everything goes smoothly. And you know what? It went off without any problems. At. All.

Now, I'm sure I'll hear some behind-the-scenes stories later. There always is. But I can't wait to tell her how I was smiling every moment of the event.

-volunteers guiding attendees to the ballroom
-the wide-open registration area
-quick access to our name tags with our table # on them
-live music for everyone to enjoy (playing all genres)
-couches for people to lounge on
-beautifully decorated room including
>>>the fabric draped walls
>>>showcased corporate sponsors via projector
>>>beautiful logo/colors as backdrop on the stage
>>>nicely scattered balloons
-tasty salmon salad and delicioso cream dessert
-wonderfully packed centerpiece full of items donated from Bartells (for clients)

And the stories. Man. I got all emotional listening to how the YWCA has touched people's lives. There was a video feature (made by our local KOMO news) on two different ladies. Each of them lost their jobs recently due to layoffs ala the struggling economy. Each of them have five kids. Each of them with a story of struggle turning into a story of support from the YWCA. I mean, these people have friends and family. Still, they ended up homeless. That's just a shame. Yet, the YWCA was there for them. Both the clients and their case worker were interviewed. As they spoke, they were in tears 'cause of how thankful and inspired they are by each other.

Then, another client spoke. This time, live and in front of everyone. Her life full of trials and tribulations. Loss of family members, abusive aunt/uncle raising her and her sister, alcohol abuse, being directionless. But the YWCA was there for her. Support. Not just giving free handouts and ignoring the problems. But being there to help her and other thousands of clients be self-sufficient. Very moving.

Oh, man. Just thinking of the story puts me near tears. I try to have a postive outlook on life. But I also have woe-is-me moments/days. Selfish? Yes. But I'm glad stories like these remind me to put everything in perspective. It reminds me that I don't have a damn thing to complain about. Seriously. Nothing compares.

I doubled what I was going to originally donate. Yes, that inspiring.