Imagine if we all took our talents and applied them to a cause, something to make this world a better place. If we did something not for the glory and fame, not for the likes on social media, but to help others. I know a young woman doing just that. I met Marie Palzer while visiting Golden Bay in New Zealand on a horse farm we both shared a room at. She’s doing something so inspiring, it makes my trip around the world seem pale in comparison. She and her horse, Spirit, are riding around the entire South Island of New Zealand. She will be taking 6 months to complete the trip, camping by herself in a tent or staying at hostels and homes along the way. Not only is this amazing all on its own, but she’s doing it to raise money for a good cause and to help lessen poverty around the world.

I think it’s so wonderful to take what you love and turn it into a gift that makes the world a better place. This woman, only 21 years old, is full of compassion and a childlike wonder about the world and her surroundings. It was a joy to meet her,  and in doing so it made me ask questions about myself. These are the individuals we need to surround ourselves with, the ones that make us want to become better people. What can each of us do in our own corner of the world to raise not just ourselves up, but others in the process?

If you’d like to know more about Marie and Spirit, please visit her website and like her Facebook page. If this story moves you as it did me, you can even donate to show your support of such a great journey and cause. Please share her story with those you think might love it and help keep this good energy riding along with her and Spirit.