Almost 1 year today, a friend shared with me a quote that literally changed my life:

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
- Mark Twain

The philosophy and motivation that is encapsulated in this quote is truly what I believe life is all about. That said, the photo you see below is myself and a friend of mine, Morgan. Recently, she had asked if I would donate my photography services to take photos at a 5k benefit race (supports brain cancer, www.headforthecure.org). The mere action of asking me to take photos prompted several thoughts in my head- much deeper than the sterile face value of just the simple one question.

Let me explain. Two years ago, the idea of “photography” was just a shelved hobby that seemed to be far from reality. It was “wish list” hobby- that required me to dedicate time I didn’t have. However, several things all happened in a short amount of time that made me realize I want the most out of life and am looking to spend my time where it makes the most impact. Mark Twain’s quote cites “Explore. Dream. Discover.” which was a motto I instantly adopted then and took off running with it. So I quickly figured out how to finance and purchase the camera and became as resourceful as I could in regards to learning as much as I could about photography (I’m an amateur at best, but I’m improving). I practiced, practiced, practiced (still am) and quickly realized how much I loved the challenge and joys of photography.

All that said- when my friend Morgan had asked me to take photos, it was a “come to fruition” moment that I’m proud of. Two years ago I had set forth personal goals and now have accomplished many of them, one of them being taking up photography as a hobby. Furthermore, taking the time to help others is now both an addiction and something I personally enjoy- and it provides me with a rich sense of fulfillment knowing I’m truly helping those in need (e.g. www.kcsweaterparty.com). It was an indirect compliment that I had matured my photography skills far enough along that Morgan asked for my services- and it’s even more fulfilling that I can take my new found hobby + skill and use it for good to help others.

So now I’ll turn this around to ask you- do you have your inspiration? Are you actively acting upon these and moving forward with your goals? I hope your answer is yes.

I’m excited to be here.

You should be too. Now you get out there. Explore. Dream. Discover.
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