Admiration vs. Inspiration: The Power to Transform
When someone says, "You inspire me," my instinctive response is often, "Thank you. To do what?" It’s not just a rhetorical question; it’s a challenge—a nudge to explore the distinction between admiration and inspiration. While these words are often used interchangeably, they represent two vastly different states of being.
Admiration: The Passive Feeling
Admiration is passive. It’s the warm glow you feel when you see someone accomplish something extraordinary. It’s the applause you give from the audience, the awe at a sunset, or the respect for someone’s perseverance. Admiration is a beautiful thing, but it stops there. It doesn’t require action, nor does it compel change.
This is perfectly okay. There’s value in recognizing and celebrating greatness in others. However, admiration alone doesn’t move the needle. It doesn’t ripple outward into the world.
Inspiration: The Active Force
Inspiration, on the other hand, is active. It’s the spark that lights a fire, the feeling that compels you to act, to create, to change. When someone inspires you, it should ignite a sense of urgency, a need to do something—whether it’s starting a new project, mending a relationship, or pursuing a long-dormant dream.
Inspiration demands engagement. It asks for a response. If you’re inspired but take no action, it’s worth reflecting: Was it truly inspiration, or was it admiration cloaked in a desire to be part of the story?
Disability and the "Inspirational" Label
As a person with a disability, I’ve often been called “inspirational.” Sometimes, this is well-intentioned but misguided. The disability community is frequently portrayed as inherently inspirational, as though simply existing with a disability is a heroic act. While this perspective might stem from good intentions, it risks reducing individuals to symbols rather than recognizing their full humanity.
That said, my philosophy is simple: if my story inspires someone to act—whether it’s to volunteer, innovate, or simply treat others with more kindness—then that’s a win for everyone. Inspiration should lead to action, and if that action brings good into the world, it’s a victory worth celebrating.
Turning Inspiration Into Action
So, what does it mean to act on inspiration? It doesn’t have to be grandiose. Small, meaningful steps can ripple outward in profound ways. If you feel inspired, ask yourself:
What can I do today to honor this feeling?
How can I turn this energy into a force for good?
Who might benefit from my next action?
A Hopeful Call to Transform
The world needs both admiration and inspiration. Admire freely, for it lifts others up. But when you feel inspired, let it fuel you to act. Don’t let the moment pass without doing something to make the world a little better.
Seek inspiration wherever you find it—in stories, people, or moments. And when you do, act on it. Go out and do good in the world. Because when inspiration becomes action, it doesn’t just change your life; it changes the lives of those around you.
So, I’ll ask you now: What inspires you? And more importantly, what will you do with it?
