Men

 I have been inspired by many men in my life, from family members to those I never knew but who made me push my mind. I try to find a lesson through every person I meet, and there has been so much inspiration given to me by wonderful and wise women in my life, but right now I will stick with the men who have brought something memorable to my life.
My father has taught me so much; from patience as he watched me work through my own mistakes, trying to give me guidance which I always accepted so slowly over time, rarely when it would have been the most useful. As I have watched him keep his body strong and able to play throughout his life, I learned that staying in good shape allows me to play at things that have brought me joy and energy since I was young; two wheeled toys are so much fun. I have also learned independence, which sometimes makes things harder, but keeps me working to always push myself to take on challenges.
My uncles, which are varied and have been gifts stretched through time have brought much to my life. I learned that I should keep a knife with me wherever I go, because you never know when you will need one. I have watched them joke around and wrestle with each other as they turned into kids again whenever they got together. I watched them flirt and laugh, working their way through a room. I learned that a funny voice can bring such happiness to children. I share their humor, the energy and drive to keep doing what needs to be done throughout life and the love they have shown me when we have been together.
My brother has always been the inspiration to keep pushing through, even when it hurts. I have watched as he, like our father, has kept moving despite a broken bone or two. He has been self sufficient while also keeping connections and reminds me that our history together matters. I have memories of happiness, anger, joy, love, respect and conversations that I have reflected on and have helped me to be who I am.
My grandfather's were two men who, it seemed, worked hard to give their families everything they could. Their challenges are stories I have heard and give me clues of what I am made of. My memories of one are humorous with joking and an ability to flip an egg with a pan, which I have yet to master. The other made popcorn, let me stand in the tractor as he moved dirt around and ate spoonfuls of molasses. As I reflect upon memories deep in my past, I am reminded how my grandfather accidentally taught me to forgive.
My father in-law has reminded me to take things slow and really see the world around you. He has also taught me patience through his actions and words. Through him I have learned a different layer of caring and love.
There are great thoughts from philosophers, psychologists, spiritual leaders and scientists who have opened my mind to space, the brain-mind connection, and understanding the world and beyond. Through books, recorded speeches and even some face to face interaction I have been given a love for knowledge and mental growth. Because of things I have been inspired to learn I am a lifelong student and seek out new information as often as possible.
There have also been friends, companions of play, banter, wrestling, running and riding around. Some friends are gone as others stretch out over time through occasional interaction and conversation.
Finally there is my son, he has brought a new kind of connection that is full of a love that I didn't know I was capable of. I was all joy watching as he grew and I am so happy to know him as a man. He keeps me connected to the world and works to expand my mind in new ways.
I have known love, joy and fraternity through the friendship I have had in my life and I am grateful for all of the boys and men I call friend. No matter where they are right now, they are within my life and made up part of who I am. To all the men in my life I send love, gratitude and thanks for adding to my life experience.
Love,
PEACE

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