I recently met a woman who has taken on a huge challenge – the feral cat population in Beacon NY. Beacon is notorious for feral cats. At several of my Beacon clients’ homes, back in the day, I needed to pound the hood of my car in the winter after I was done cleaning to ensure there were no cats that had climbed under it to escape the cold. In fact, when I first came across the Community Cat Coalition‘s video of their “Bob’s Project”, I immediately knew it was the home of a former client.

As I spoke with her at a recent fund raising event, I recognized my own reflection, and felt proud of us. Pride is not an emotion I often feel, and I sensed it was not one she would use to describe her efforts.

While we pursue different passions, there is a connection and similarity to what we do: the right thing.We fight for the underdog (or cat) because it is most crucial to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

The drive goes beyond our personal circle, and often beyond our own comfort zone. It is altruistic, selfless, exhausting, inspiring, and ultimately it is what makes us tick.

There is a particular dogged determination that is required of individuals willing to extend themselves beyond what they think is possible, even to themselves. There are thousands of people out there with that passion, and I am reminded of my own passion whenever I meet them.

Thank you to all the passionate people out there!