I am extremely thankful that there are people in my life who are worthy of being looked up to and valued. It makes trials and tribulations easier when you know that someone has been there, done that, and made it through.
My freshman year of high school, my parents made me join my school’s swim team. Yes, you read that correctly…They had to force me. I didn’t want to join because I didn't think I was fast enough, I was scared of the other girls, and although I’d heard great things about them, all the coaches were different. If you would have told me then that the four years I would spend on the swim team would be the best four years of my young life, and that I’d meet people who would leave a lasting impression on me, I would have joined the team in a heartbeat (and I probably would have tried to extend my high school career in order to prolong my time on said team).
The day I realized I wanted to be like my coach was the day I realized just how much she cared about those around her. This became apparent during the rough patch that inevitably follows a person’s junior year of high school. She noticed that I was stuck in a little bit of quicksand and made sure I knew she’d toss me a rope if I needed her to.
The day I realized I wanted to be like my coach was the day I realized how much passion she has for life. She rides a Harley and vacations in Cabo and is spontaneous beyond compare. She makes sure she’s making the most of her time here and that is quite apparent to those around her. Wrapped up in her passion for life is a person who is adamant about making the people around her happy. Whether or not it’s through a quick text, a Facebook post, or an eloquently-worded mini speech, she will find a way to put a positive spin on wherever life is taking you.
The day I realized I wanted to be like my coach was the day I watched her say what everyone was thinking and not regret it. I know, I know, you’re probably thinking she does this only sometimes. Wrong. She does this all the time. It’s a relief to know that someone will always tell it to you like it is…No matter if it’s regarding the clothes you’re wearing or the way you’re acting.
The day I realized I wanted to be like my coach was the day I realized that if the whole world were made up of people exactly like her, it would be a better place. If we were all more honest, if we all cared deeply about others, and if we all lived life with passion and zeal, I know it would be better.
It’s not every day you’re given the opportunity to meet someone what truly makes you want to be a better person and who you can confidently say is one of the best people in the world.
So, thank you, Shannon, for being one of the best role models ever.
