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Inspiration from Susan Butcher

David Monson Inspires the Audience

by Laure Nakauchi Hawn

03/06/2008

David Monson

By Laurie Nakauchi Hawn

Target Iditarod Teacher on the Trail Finalist for 2009 

Inspire (verb) - 1. To encourage people to greater efforts 2. To arouse a particular feeling in someone.

On the day before the Iditarod Sled Dog Race, the streets are filled with Iditarod fans who have come to be inspired by the 98 mushers, the 1,500 dogs and the 1,112 miles they will mush to Nome in harsh, sometimes brutal conditions. And while I am here to be inspired by the same sites and events, inside a small conference room, I found another kind of inspiration from David Monson, husband of the late Susan Butcher.

With a warm smile David chatted easily about his experiences as a musher, his relationship with Susan and her passion and dedication for the Iditarod. Unable to hide his pride, David talked about how Susan has left behind an incredible legacy through her involvement in the race. He emphasized how she changed the face of the race by breaking down barriers for women and revolutionizing year-round dog care.

It is impossible to talk to a single race fan who does not know the name of Susan Butcher or the positive impact she had on the Iditarod. An example of Susan's remarkable influence here in Alaska they have passed a bill declaring the First Saturday in March "Susan Butcher Day. " What better way to honor someone who has given so much to the state?

David Monson, excited about having the honor bestowed on his late wife, may also have a way to honor Susan's memory. Saying to the crowd, "As long as we inspire one other person, we've led a meaningful life," With this simple belief, David may have a summed up a way of keeping Susan's legacy alive.

While many people may not see themselves in the same realm as Susan Butcher, we all have the potential to inspire others. As David said, "To be an inspiration, you have to do something."

And David is doing his part. As a single father he is raising two incredible daughters, as an athlete and advocate for finding a cure for Leukemia he is training and raising money for the San Diego Marathon through Team in Training, as a public figure he is speaking to groups about Susan and how she changed the world.

But what can you do? A LOT. We all dream and strive to achieve incredible feats like Susan Butcher, but consider the idea that there is a wealth of power in the small things we do each day. After hearing David speak, here are just a few ideas.

Take a small step toward making a positive difference. This can be the simple act of helping someone in a time of need, giving of yourself and your time. The most valuable gift we can give is our time.

Take a larger step by finding a cause you can champion. Collect food and toys for your local pet shelter. Save pennies and coins for donating to your favorite cause. Clean up your neighborhood, school or parks. Give back to your community.

Most importantly as I have learned this week, find and follow your dream. What better inspiration to the people around you, especially your children, if you are living your dream.

So, as you are watching the Iditarod, awed by the courage of every musher and dog, I challenge you to consider, "How will inspire another person?"

Leave your mark. Don't wait, just START. For as Lord Tennyson said, "We are here to live a meaningful life."