In yesterday’s email I shared with you a little about Holding the Hope and the values that drive us.
Today, I’ll be more personal and tell you about what drives me, personally.
None of my four siblings influenced me more than my brother Joe. Joe has developmental disabilities. If you've grown up with someone who has disabilities, you view life differently. Joe taught me the dignity of each person's experience. He taught me tenacity, kindness and being fully yourself.
Even though there were times when I've was terrible to him, he just stays positive and forgiving. My top value is Dignity and I know I get that from having Joe in my life.
What’s more, Joe brought out my inner advocate! Being an Advocate is in my blood and in my soul; it is the major and foremost part of who I am.
Over the years I learned to be effective at it. While my tone softened; my skills have sharpened. I pick my battles a little bit better now, and I win more of them.
My life with Joe is a major factor in who I have become and my commitment to fight for others.
