An attitude of gratitude: Mile 2

After getting things rolling yesterday, I'd like to continue with my thank-yous by dedicating Mile 2 of next weekend's race to two special people.

First, there is Amanda--yep, same name as me! The way we met was pretty hilarious. We were both contestants in a countywide spelling bee as eighth graders, and when we were released to go pick our chairs on the stage, we both rushed to the very far back corner, thinking that being last would confer an advantage. She and I got the very last two chairs on that stage, and when it came down to the final two contestants, guess who they were? Amanda and I! She won, but we both got our pictures in the paper, and we became fast friends when we started high school.

All these years later, Amanda is still my friend and very good about keeping in touch. She puts together the most adorable Valentine's Day packages for her family and friends, and every year I look forward to a little bit of sunshine in the middle of a cold, dark winter. I cried like a baby at her wedding, and she is now a happy and successful CPA in Atlanta. She also earned my undying gratitude for giving me a donation for Christmas and another one for my birthday! She is a truly fabulous human being and I am lucky to know her.

The other person I am dedicating Mile 2 to also has a name that starts with an A--Anonymous. He/she is shrouded in mystery, although the message that came with the donation made me strongly suspect a certain person. At the time I would have bet a lot of money that I knew who it was, but now I am only about 90% sure.

There is something wonderful and piquant about a person doing good (in this case, REALLY good) and not wanting any credit for it. So Anonymous, whoever you are, my hat (or visor, in this case) is off to you, and I will be pondering the mysteries of the universe as I run Mile 2 for you and Amanda!