Happy Birthday Debbie!

Today is my friend Debbie's birthday.

Debbie is a woman who inspires me each day to be better.

An amazing single mom of two beautiful children including a developmentally disabled child, Debbie is one of the most selfless people I've ever known. She refuses to let life's challenges get in her way, rather choosing to overcome and celebrate life's goodness on a daily basis and live out her mission of leaving the world quite a bit better than she found it.

Her many victories in the few years I've known her include founding the Random Acts of Kindness Club and being elected as an Arlington Heights Memorial Library Trustee, where she pays it forward everyday and is creating a legacy of kindness and generosity that will long outlive her.

Debbie is an amazing mom, keeping her children as her purpose for forging ahead rather than an excuse for why she can't do something. They are growing up knowing that they can do anything and that love and kindness do triumph.

Debbie is the kind of friend everyone should have. She shows up with chicken noodle soup and brownies when you are sick. She always has kind uplifting words. She sees the best in others. She's non-judgmental, electing to believe that everyone has significant value and something to contribute. And she's fun.

So please join me in wishing a very Happy Birthday to my friend Debbie! There is no one I wish more happiness, joy, love, and success in the world to than her.