It’s getting close to the end of the year; a time to reflect on what’s important in life, how we can help others, our goals, what we are grateful for and so much more.

Thanks to the Internet, and social media, I’ve met so many wonderful people, and read so many inspiring, funny, sad, informative and motivational stories.

One thing I’ve learned is that we all have our own unique “My Gutsy Story” and I am grateful to Jill Fales, the winner of our first “My Gutsy Story” contest, for her comment.

 “I really appreciate everything you do for women and men who want to take a risk. I feel that there may be people out there on the fence and through this contest, they may be convinced to go to the other side!”

I think Jill brought up something even bigger than what I had hoped for with the “My Gutsy Story” series. By reading other stories and sharing our own, we truly help one another realize we have options in life. We are all connected and through our stories and those of famous inspirational people, like Jane Goodall, I find myself more and more attracted to global issues.

I have always wanted to be like Jane Goodall. Perhaps living in Nigeria as a child, has given me the desire to return to certain parts of Africa, or maybe it’s the fact that my children are growing up that has sparked a need to help others less fortunate than me.

As Jane Goodall says:

“If you really want something, work hard, take risks, grab opportunities, and never give up … then there is definitely a way to success.”

I wish all of you a Merry Christmas, a wonderful holiday season with family and friends and look forward to reading and sharing your, “My Gutsy Story.”