Motivational stories are all around us. Some are well known because theyve captured the attention of television, film directors or writers. However, there are many well never hear about because people overcome and rise beyond their limitations all over the world and their experiences are not covered by the media.

Ive run across several stories of heroism and living beyond limits lately. Maybe it is because of the holiday season as people tend to reflect on the past year, their own lives and what the future can be.

As I viewed these amazing stories I began to wonder; once again, why these stories move us so much. Just about everyone in life has some obstacle to overcome whether its physical, mental or emotional. Our individual journeys are filled with experiences that cause us to learn, grow and cultivate ourselves along the way. Of course, that doesnt mean we do grow because we have the option to turn away from and ignore these lessons if we choose to. But, what is it that moves us when we watch other peoples stories of success and overcoming adversity? After viewing yet another human interest story about a man who has only stubs for arms and legs and yet lives an amazing life; the question that came to me was, Are we really doing our best? People who dont have the physical limitations others do manage to find ways to not give their all to life. We find excuses, allow our fears and let our old habits prevent us from living the full life we say we want.

The amazing stories we see and read about touch us because they strike a chord of the human spirit to live and excel no matter what. These people are driven to follow their dreams, keep themselves on track and dont give up. They are not afraid to fail or receive support from others.

I believe this is the reason we have such a strong reaction to those far less fortunate than we are yet whove managed to live wonderful lives full of love, activity and without regret. When asked what he wanted most, the man in the story I was watching simply said, I have a heart, a mind and a soul. I have everything I need. We have all been given the gift of a heart, a mind and a soul. Are we doing the most we can with them or do we let doubt, fear and confusion get in the way? The stories of those who have overcome, sustained a wonderful life and have a deep sense of fulfillment are living testament to the power we have all been given. We have the opportunity every minute of every day to not only live the life we truly desire but to share it with others. We dont have to wait for some event to jar us into this awareness. Look around you, your life is waiting. What will you do with the heart, mind and soul you already have?

David Breslow 2005 All Rights Reserved