This is actually difficult for me to answer. A lot of people have influenced me in my life. They have influenced me in good ways and bad ways!
The bullies in school had an influence. Mormon church leaders that haven't been very inspired and bad drivers all have had a bad influence on me.
A few friends, mom and dad and a few other family members all had a good effect on me. But who has had the most influence on me?
I have some amazing friends! I have people who have been in my life who have helped me and are near and dear to me. But one person has probably been the most influential... my niece.
She is the only baby I have ever held on the day they were born. I had not even been in Dallas for a few months when she was born and I rushed up to the hospital after work and I held her in my arms. It's the most amazing feeling I've ever had!
She and I have always been close. I think we really understand each other. We both have 3 older siblings and were picked on by them. I was very much a part of her life for the first 5 years as I would often let the kids or even just her have a sleep over where we stayed up late watching TV and movies or just talking.
When she was about 5 years old my sister moved the family to Sacramento. I had just come back out, so I'm sure she heard her parents talk a lot about me. When I visited during the holidays there was a lot going on. Finally she had a minute alone with me. She decided to see for herself what her parents were talking about. She asked; "Uncle Jim, do you date girls or boys?" I laughed and told her, "I am dating a man" to which she replied; "Well, Jesus says that isn't OK" I laughed again because I'm hearing this from a 5 year old. I tell her that as long as I live a good life and am happy then Jesus will understand. She thought that was good and the conversation ended.
Now she is in the teenage fog, but we still have some interesting conversations. She has asked me a lot about what it means to be a Pagan. She even wanted me to do a Tarot card reading for her, much to her mother's dismay!
So, because of the unconditional love she has for me and our close bond. I'm naming her the person who has influenced me the most in my life.
Who has influenced you? Please leave a comment or write an entry on your own blog and let me know.
Happy Wednesday y'all!
4 comments:
my maternal grandmother. I still feel her spirit around me to this day, even though she died in 1988.
My mentor Brian affected me more than anyone else. I spent nine years working with him and still dream about him frequently. RIP
My parents. My mother and I are incredibly alike in temperment, attitude, and being tireless workers. My father has mellowed considerably in old age and is highly respected by everyone who knows him. (p.s. cute pic of you and your niece!)
No question about it... My Mom.
Post a Comment