Let yourself be inspired, Muskegon...

The ingredients of an inspirational poster...

"Without inspiration the best powers of the mind remain dormant. There is a fuel in us which needs to be ignited with sparks." --Johann Gottfried Von Herder 

So, Muskegon, the weather calls for a high of 63 degrees today and some strong wind: 15-20 mph, with gusts of up to 30 mph. So, there's one thing you really ought to do: Get to the beach. Yes, I'm serious. Get thee to a beach ... You don't have to stay for long, and you might not want to venture outside your car (though maybe you will want to feel the natural breeze), but windy days at the beach are some of the best (until it's warm enough to swim).

Yes, the answer has to do with the picture up there^. When the wind comes, it brings the kiteboarders. And the kiteboarders bring their beautiful parachutes. And their amazing athletic skills. And their inspiration ... Seriously, have you ever taken the time to watch them participate in their sport? I mean, really observe them? Because, I'll tell ya, it's pretty phenomenal. How could it not be? They ride the waves and the wind! You think basketball players jump high? Watch these guys and gals. Ever seen a long-jumper? Now watch the equivalent on water.

Not only is kiteboarding colorful and interesting to watch, it's highly inspiring, and not just because these folks are out there in wetsuits for hours when many of us have a hard time walking on the beach for 15 minutes. The sport is extremely challenging. It takes a great degree of skill, strength, and agility. I mean, you're battling the wind and the waves ... 

Whatever I'm doing when I see the kiteboarders at the beach, I always get inspired. If I'm running or walking against the wind, it suddenly doesn't seem so bad. If I'm thinking about what a gray day it is, it's instantly brightened by the colorful kites. And if I take some time to watch the incredible wave rides and high jumps, I start wondering what else is possible...

Check it out, Muskegon. And if you can't get to the beach, look for the inspiration around you. Guaranteed, someone is showing great strength in some area, mastering some skill, practicing great discipline in something...

See you on the other side of inspired.

--Imaginer

You know, just dancing on the water...