Here's the one I promised...

I said yesterday that I was going to write about people in my life who inspire me and make me want to be better.

First, my Mommy

My Mom is beautiful. She is the most patient and selfless person I know. I can't even begin to list everything she has done for me. Of course there's the obvious financial contributions she has made to my life. Next, she received a Masters in psych and has used her education to make me a better person. She also has gone on to receive an EDS, education specialist degree, and is now working too. She emphasizes service, love, and hard work. She is an inspiration to me, and I'm grateful to be part of her family.

My Grandmas

Donna Jean Kelsey is extremely hard working. (That must be where my Mama got it from!) Even though she has the shakes and she's slowing down, she refuses to let that stop her. She tirelessly cooks and cleans for our family. I love asking her stories about her upbringing because she has so much wisdom and experience. My Grandma took in her mom once her dad had died. My Grandma showed the utmost patience, respect, and love. Not to mention, she's a member of Jean's Golden Girls, which is super cool. My other Grandma is Gwendolyn Ku'ulei Felisa Arce. She was born and raised in poverty in Kihei, Maui. She worked hard enough in school to become an RN and forever changed my circumstances. She also eloped with my Grandpa which is another story for another time:) I love her for her example of hard work in school and determination in love.

Other ladies in my ward/neighborhood

I am so blessed to be where I am. I got to thinking one day...why are girls so quick to idolize people like Snooki and the Kardashians? They are people who have had everything handed to them in life. Instead, I have respect and admiration for every mom out there. I used to struggle with the thought of being a mom (I'm terrible with kids) but then I thought about how I've been blessed with this sacred duty and privilege. It doesn't make me any less than a man. In fact, it makes me better. I have the opportunity to bear and raise children. That doesn't take away my opportunity to have a good career too! I get to do both! Anyone who thinks otherwise is narrow minded. My mom does both, and half the ladies in my ward do both. I will do both. 

Elaine S. Dalton (I will name a daughter after her) said that "if you want to make a difference in the world, then you must be different from the world." These people I look up to didn't win the Nobel Peace Prize, didn't cure cancer, and don't have a lot of fame. These are beautiful women who are modest, kind, charitable, and all around good people. They are different from the world. They arise and shine forth because of their adherence to Gospel standards. I want to be like them.