It’s rare that I’m THIS inspired but I simply had to write. I’ve been going through some serious growing pains the last couple years as I learn to live my life more from my heart than from my head. It’s pretty scary stuff for a heady girl like me. ESPECIALLY in this world where money and status and fame are what we covet….BUT my heart keeps rejecting it.
Today is my virtual friend AJ Leon’s 30th birthday. He’s launching his Bold, Brave and Beautiful website/project Pursuit of Everything that is like nothing you’ve every seen before that will leave you asking if you’re truly living well and with purpose. (I highly recommend you download his manifesto!)
First a little about AJ. I discovered AJ last fall after a simple tweet led me to his website Misfit.inc! EVERYTHING about him inspires me….his courage, his honesty, his creativity and especially his good good heart. (I wrote about him here: Reach Out and Touch) Self described AJ writes: “I am a writer, designer, entrepreneur, humanitarian and nomad. I am now on a quest to travel around the world in 1,080 days”. AWESOME!
Since discovering this AMAZING young, beautiful man whom I’ve NEVER met in person, nor whom I’ve EVER had a live conversation with, he probably has absolutely NO idea how much he’s inspired me to make very specific choices in my own life in pursuit of purpose, intention and truth!
One thing I’ve learned is the importance of following our heart and turn off the noise of the world with all their ‘Shoulds’! This is MY life! I only have one and I want to make it mean something and leave a legacy of hope and inspiration with everyone I have the privilege to encounter.
I have never been more clear that we’re truly living in a “Matrix” with a lot of smoke and mirrors. Busy in our lives putting in our time, paying our bills and meeting our responsibilities. It’s slowly killing us and is in my opinion the overriding pain of our world.
I believe each and every one of us have unique and valuable gifts to share and as long as we deny them we will never be truly happy. Capitalism does not always reflect back our value, BUT I believe that is changing.
In this new social world, we have the ability to build our own communities and connect with other like minded souls who share our vision. It has never been easier to be connected, supported or to create a truly inspiring, meaningful life.
So Happy Birthday dear AJ and bless you for being the bold, brave, beautiful person you are and for shining your light so bright that it inspires the rest of us. You truly are making a difference! So honoured to call you a friend. xo
(Read AJ’s brave admission about how he’s ‘stepping off the ledge’ with this new project: Define Your Moments or They Will Define You.)
About Teri Conrad
I can tell you this… when you finally do meet AJ face-t0-face, you will be just as impressed. Both he and his wife are truly beautiful people and I feel blessed to have had the opportunity you’ve not had yet. I’m certain that opportunity will come.
@Jeff ~ yes I’m sure it will. We’ve tried a couple of times but AJ and Melissa don’t sit still for very long
Apparently there may be a trip to Vancouver soon and since I keep missing him in NYC I’m counting on it! 
I forgot you guys were pals. Small freakin world!
Gettin’ smaller every day.
Thank you for the kind words, my friend. And for my video birthday message, it is literally on a list of 8 other constants in my life. Big hugs.
Teri – your passion for growth & betterment is second only to your desire to share your experiences. A.J. – wishing you a very happy 30th birthday. With TLC’s endorsement comes great responsibility – I’m sure you won’t let her down
Oh my friend ~ you are adorable and I adore you! AJ will inspire you ~ I guarantee!
Thank you for the birthday wishes, Jim.
Teri, I am speechless about almost in tears at my little coffee shop in New York. I’m blown away. I will truly treasure this post and return to it in moments of doubt. It means so much.
You are precious! Kindred spirits my friend and keep fighting the good fight!
Thanks for a nice post Teri. We just don’t talk enough about what inspires us; instead we speak mostly of what frustrates us. I stopped in and read through some of what AJ has written. OMG, you know what they say about timing. I could not stop reading. It is just what I needed to hear on this particular evening. I also read through your site and loved it. Wow, Strategy and defining a purpose that matters in both your professional and personal life is my passion. Like you hoping to meet AJ, I hope I get to meet you. If you ever are in the wonderful Midwest, I would love to chat.
Hey Julie ~ Thanks so much for your message.. I have to say I am done with negative bull shit. Our world’s are full of it and I crave the positive! I think life is freaking short and it’s in our best interest to focus instead on our own personal purpose and what brings passion to our lives ~ I’m thrilled to know that this may have resonated with you and encourage you to reach out to us both! Cheers!
100% agree. The Serenity Prayer is always a great “reset” button when you feel that the negative, toxic people start to gain the upper hand.
“God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.”
You are such a positive person that I know this “new approach” won’t be much different from how you always live your life and treat others around you.
AMEN Sean! What an excellent reminder and the very same could be said for you! So appreciate your thoughtful contributions! Cheers!
Awesome post. Sharing ideas and having the ability to work the ideas through is the best and most efficient way of achieving success.
Having a very supportive husband doesn’t hurt either
xo