Finding Inspiration in Unlikely Places

Be inspired by the delightful, daring, and courageous act by Gal Faganel, assistant professor of cello at the University of Northern Colorado and director of the Colorado Youth Symphony, and Jenny Shea, a violinist and graduate student at the University of Colorado.  

The duo performed a free concert on top of the tallest mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park at 14,259 feet.  The hike was 15 miles long, with almost 5,000 feet of elevation gain, all with carrying their instruments on their backs.

Have you ever had a “crazy” idea, or one that others would say you shouldn’t do, or what’s the point?  What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?  What inspires you?

When you begin to give life to your “crazy” ideas, allowing them to take shape and manifest, you yourself will begin to grow and blossom into a more courageous, visionary version of yourself.  Maybe it’s time to unleash your inner powerhouse!

Another incredible and inspiring story is that of Roz Savage, who holds four Guinness World Records for ocean rowing, including first woman to row solo across the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans.  

Her story really began at age 34, when she found herself unhappy and dissatisfied in her job as a management consultant and investment banker and found herself feeling deep down that she was meant for more.  It was on a train trip that year, when she wrote out two obituaries for herself, one for the life she was currently living and the other for the life she really wanted.  Their disparity inspired her to make some major changes in her life and it was at that point her story really began to blossom.

Both of these impressive stories, Faganel’s musical treks, and Savage’s ocean voyages, are not just stories of courage, fortitude, and great daring, they are stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things simply by having the courage to take the first step, then the next, and the next.

Also read: The Rally Cry: Malcolm Gladwell's new book David and Goliath