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March 2025 AR Challenge: Sharing The Gift Of Who You Are

By
Real Estate Agent with Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES 0506509

Patricia Feager and Lew Corcoran are your hosts for the "March 2025 ActiveRain Challenge: Sharing the Gift of Who You Are." The inspiration for this challenge comes from Mr. Roger’s “It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood” Commencement Speech of 2002. The challenge is to reflect and share your invisible gift of who you are “because of those who nourish you at the deepest part of your being – anyone who has ever loved you and wanted what was best for you in life. Some of those people may be right here today. Some may be far away, some may even be in heaven; but if they’ve encouraged you to come closer to what you know to be essential about life, I’d like you to have a silent minute to think of them.” The ActiveRain challenge is to share the profound impact someone had on you in shaping you to who you are today.

 


Challenge Details: Starting today, March 1, through March 31, share the gift of who you are with others in the ActiveRain Community. Each post meeting the challenge criteria will earn an extra 500 points each, up to 4 posts once a week through this month. Please include your hosts names on each entry: Lew Corcoran and myself. 


Challenge Criteria:


One post per week (500 each) – you can post up to 4 times in March (one post per
week) to earn extra points. If you share more than one post per week or submit all your posts on the final day, only one per week will be credited!

300 word per minimum – Each post should share a meaningful, heartfelt message about how they shaped you into the person you are today.

Add a graphic – Add at least one photo or graphic with each post to enhance your message.


Submit your entries:

To ensure we catch all your entries, post the links to your post in ONE
comment in the comments section below. If you can’t edit your original comment to add more links, simply add “REPLY” under your original comment.
Bonus Points Timeline: All points will be awarded by mid-April after the challenge wraps up on March 31, 2025, at midnight PST.

Comments(83)

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Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Author, Golfer, Retired Broker, Wenatchee, WA

Patricia & Lew Corcoran 
Here are links to all four of my entries for your March Challenge:
A Teacher's Legacy: A Lesson I'll Never Forget 
Early Goodbyes Shaped Who I Am 
Unplanned Influences On Who I Am 
How a Smile, M&M's, and One Man Changed My Life 

Thank you so much for hosting. These brought back a lot of memories.

Mar 26, 2025 07:00 AM
Patricia Feager

Carol Williams - Because of your passion, you are a great storyteller. It takes a lot of courage to become a writer who writes biography about their broken childhood through adulthood in a manner that pulls on the heartstrings of the readers. Respectfully you did that by motivating your readers to cherish their own family members even more. 

Through all your trials and sufferings, you came out even stronger. Plus, you inspired us, as we went along with you on your personal journeys. 

Thank you for your participation in sharing pieces of your heart and soul for the March 2025 AR Challenge: Sharing the Gift of Who You Are. 

Mar 26, 2025 08:10 AM
Carol Williams

Awww, thank you very much Patricia Feager.
They say to write what you know and who knows me better than me? 😂

Mar 26, 2025 09:10 AM
Lew Corcoran

Thank you for sharing your thoughtful posts for the March 2025 AR Challenge, Carol Williams! Each of your pieces beautifully captures the essence of personal growth and the importance of connection. Your ability to weave these themes together creates a compelling narrative that inspires us to appreciate the gift of who we are. Keep sharing your insights!

Mar 26, 2025 07:39 AM
Patricia Feager
Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES - Flower Mound, TX
Licensed to April 2027
Lew Corcoran

Wow, you’ve really poured your heart into this challenge and these entries Patricia Feager! Each piece highlights the profound impact your loved ones have had on your life, which is truly inspiring. I appreciate the vulnerability and courage you’ve shared—keep shining your light and sharing your journey with us!

Mar 26, 2025 03:26 PM
Patricia Feager

Lew Corcoran - thank you.

I thoroughly enjoyed sharing this Challenge with you, truly an upstanding member of this community on ActiveRain. 

Mar 26, 2025 04:43 PM
Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD
http://www.medicalandspaconsulting.com - Vail, CO
Paddy Deighan J.D. Ph.D

Post #1 for the March Challenge!!

https://activerain.com/droplet/JrrB

Mar 26, 2025 08:10 PM
Lew Corcoran

Thanks for sharing, Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD! It's incredible to see how the impact of mentorship can create a lasting legacy, both in our lives and in the lives of others. Your journey with Rick is truly inspiring!

Mar 27, 2025 03:38 AM
Patricia Feager

Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD - Thank you! I read your entry last night before you left the link here. You did great! I think this was your first challenge completed?

Mar 27, 2025 01:56 PM
Scott Schulte
Scott Schulte LLC - Phoenix, AZ

Patricia Feager  and Lew Corcoran 

Cactus Rock Band

🦂 My Final Entry is Here! 🌵🔥

Everything in Arizona Either Stings, Stabs, or Sizzles... And Somehow I Still Love It

If the cacti don't get you, the sun will ... and if not that, the rattlesnake with a guitar might. 🎸🐍 This post is a love letter to the brutal beauty of the desert that raised me (and scorched me).

🔥 Read My Wild Desert Entry

Mar 27, 2025 09:10 AM
Patricia Feager

Thank you Scott Schulte - I'm off to read your last entry now! You have been great, and I appreciate all that you have done. 

Mar 27, 2025 10:07 AM
Lew Corcoran

Haha, that’s the spirit, Scott Schulte! The desert's wild charm keeps us on our toes, doesn’t it? Here’s to embracing the sting, the sun, and all those unforgettable moments that make living here truly an adventure! 🌵✨

Mar 28, 2025 10:23 AM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Retired Home Stager/Redesign

Hi Patricia and Lew Corcoran I have loved reading all of the posts for this challenge. Thank you both for hosting it!! 

Here are my entries:

Grandma Kate

My Little Aunt Berda ...Power in a Small Package and My Own Charlie Chan

March Challenge; Mom and Dad

A Big Influence Who Added More Layers to Who I Am

Mar 27, 2025 05:14 PM
Patricia Feager

Kathy Streib - I learned so much from you and who you are. Loved your Grandma Kat and your Little Aunt Berda too! The book is amazing! And with reference to your parents and Larry, I know now where you got your strength from. It goes way back into your roots! Simply amazing! Thank you, so much for sharing these beautiful and remarkable gifts of who you are. We've learned so much about each other.Thank you, again. 

Mar 27, 2025 06:00 PM
Lew Corcoran

Thanks so much for sharing your entries, Kathy Streib, and for your kind words! It's great to hear you’ve enjoyed the challenge—each of your stories really added a beautiful layer to our community.🌟

Mar 28, 2025 10:35 AM
Liz and Bill Spear
Transaction Alliance 513.520.5305 www.WarrenCountyOhioRealEstate.com - Mason, OH
Transaction Alliance Cincinnati & Dayton suburbs
Mar 28, 2025 08:32 AM
Patricia Feager

Liz and Bill Spear 

For me personally, just one is enough. Thank you for your participation. It means so much to me. I hope you really like my comment because you gave me inspiration and hope for my granddaughter. 

Thank you! I'm not trying to boost your ego, but this post is by far, the most inspirational and I needed to read your words of wisdom.

Mar 28, 2025 08:41 AM
Lew Corcoran

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Liz and Bill Spear! I love that analogy of life as a continuous polishing process—it really highlights how everyone we meet leaves a little mark on us, doesn’t it? Here’s to all the encounters that make us who we are!

Mar 28, 2025 11:07 AM
Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!
Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374 - St. George, UT
Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.

THANK YOU both for hosting this month's challenge, Patricia Feager and Lew Corcoran. Here is an entry: Grandpa, Tell Me 'Bout The Good Ole Days

Mar 28, 2025 09:12 AM
Patricia Feager

Thanks, Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can! 

I'm going to read it now!

Mar 28, 2025 09:15 AM
Lew Corcoran

Thanks for your thoughtful comment, Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!! It’s wonderful to see how Grandpa Henry's lessons resonate with so many of us—his wisdom truly lives on through stories like yours. Here’s to cherishing those memories and the values they instill!

Mar 28, 2025 11:10 AM
Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400
HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400 - Pikesville, MD
Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome

Here is my 3rd

My Journey

Mar 28, 2025 01:48 PM
Patricia Feager

Over the years, no matter how busy life gets, I know I can always count on Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400!

Thank you, Margaret. I know March was a very busy month for you. Your participation is greatly appreciated. Life is journey. You don't give up.  

Mar 28, 2025 02:48 PM
Lew Corcoran

Wow, Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, what an incredible journey! It's truly inspiring to see how you've embraced every twist and turn, turning challenges into opportunities while keeping your creativity alive. Your story beautifully showcases the power of resilience and the connections you made along the way. Thanks for sharing your journey with us!

Mar 28, 2025 02:21 PM
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
Mar 29, 2025 05:30 AM
Patricia Feager

Thank you, Nina Hollander, Broker - you are amazing. I enjoyed reading all your stories. Many from your past tugged at my heartstrings. All were great, but when it comes to business, you saved the best for last. How do I say thank you? I am grateful for all that you are and all that you have done. 

Mar 29, 2025 06:18 AM
Nina Hollander, Broker

Patricia Feager 

Mar 29, 2025 06:46 AM
Lew Corcoran

Thanks for sharing your stories, Nina Hollander, Broker—each one’s a gem! I really enjoyed diving into all those experiences you've captured; they’re bound to inspire others on their journeys too.

Mar 29, 2025 12:16 PM
Nina Hollander, Broker

Lew Corcoran thank you, Lew, for taking the time to read my entries.

Mar 29, 2025 03:21 PM
Ed Silva, 203-206-0754
203-206-0754 - Waterbury, CT
Retired Real Estate Broker
Mar 30, 2025 04:33 AM
Patricia Feager

Ed Silva, 203-206-0754 

Thank you very much for completing four amazing stories about your "Influences That Define our Lives." Your gifts of sharing who you are very much appreciated. Each story was exemplary. 

Mar 30, 2025 04:35 AM
Lew Corcoran

Thank you for sharing your reflections in this series, Ed Silva, 203-206-0754—your thoughtful approach to exploring life's influences is truly appreciated. Your insights offer a fresh perspective and encourage meaningful conversations!

Mar 30, 2025 01:32 PM
Eileen Burns 954.483.3912
Douglas Elliman Las Olas - Fort Lauderdale, FL
FLorida Real Estate Connector
Mar 30, 2025 09:37 AM
Lew Corcoran

What a heartfelt journey you’ve shared, Eileen Burns 954.483.3912! It’s inspiring to see how your mom’s strength shaped your adventurous spirit and your path in life. Here’s to all the exciting roads ahead and the connections waiting to be made along the way!

Mar 30, 2025 01:34 PM
Patricia Feager

Eileen Burns 954.483.3912- Sorry! I am having computer issues. I feel confident I already commented here yesterday, but it's not here. I will switch to your blog site and see if I left comments there.

Thank you! I know you are an inspiration to all of us here on ActiveRain! 

Mar 31, 2025 05:07 AM
Patricia Feager
Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES - Flower Mound, TX
Licensed to April 2027

Eileen Burns 954.483.3912 

Thank you for entering the Challenge! I'm going to read it now!

 

Mar 30, 2025 01:09 PM
Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD
http://www.medicalandspaconsulting.com - Vail, CO
Paddy Deighan J.D. Ph.D

m y second and final installment for the March Challenge!!

March Challenge #2

Mar 30, 2025 08:18 PM
Patricia Feager

Great! Thank you, Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD. I am on my way to read it now. 

Mar 31, 2025 04:56 AM
Lew Corcoran

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD! It’s amazing how our parents shape our journeys, and I love how you highlight both their unique styles. Wishing you the best as you navigate these lessons, and yes, being a dog dad definitely counts for something!

Mar 31, 2025 01:38 PM
Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400
HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400 - Pikesville, MD
Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
Mar 31, 2025 07:16 AM
Lew Corcoran

Your enthusiasm is infectious, Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400! It's amazing to see how much love and collaboration is flourishing in the ActiveRain community – definitely a testament to the power of sharing and connecting.

Mar 31, 2025 01:41 PM
Patricia Feager
Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES - Flower Mound, TX
Licensed to April 2027

 

Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400 - Got it! Read it! Responded!

With gratitude,

Patricia :)

 

Mar 31, 2025 07:20 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS
Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310 - Charlotte, NC
The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!

Oh my gosh, I can't BELIEVE I didn't get my 4 in but, I did finally get #3 done! Here you go! 

Thank you both for hosting this month's AMAZING challenge! You both did such a wonderful job making everyone feel so special. THANK YOU!!

Mar 31, 2025 09:11 PM
Lew Corcoran

Thanks so much for the kind words, Debe Maxwell, CRS! We're thrilled you enjoyed the challenge—we always aim to inspire and uplift. Here’s to celebrating all the amazing partners out there, like Ray, who make such a difference in our world! 🌟

Apr 01, 2025 03:45 AM
Patricia Feager

Debe Maxwell, CRS - No worries! You managed to get one more story in for the March 2025 AR Challenge: Sharing the Gifts of Who You Are. And what better way to share your gifts than to highlight the love or your life! Ray - all that he is, he brings the sunrays into your life! You are a blessing to each other having a strong positive impact on others. And for that, I am proud to be acquainted with you, and even better yet, to have had a once in a lifetime chance to sit down with you at Gaylord Texas to have meaningful conversations. 

Thank you for sharing so much of yourself in all the things you do, including the March 2025 AR Challenge: Sharing the Gifts of Who You Are!

Apr 01, 2025 06:02 AM
Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI
HomeSmart Real Estate - Scottsdale, AZ
Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell

OK Patricia and Lew Corcoran YOU made me do it! Here are my 4 entries submitted at the end of the month inspired by your this is who I am March challenge:

4. Let This Senior Citizen Help You Find A Home To Retire In

3. What Do Baseball and Real Estate Have In Common?

2. BIG Homes or "Compounds" in Phoenix Metro For Sale

1. How To Get to Paradise? Paradise Valley Arizona That Is...

Jeff

Mar 31, 2025 09:14 PM
Lew Corcoran

Wow, Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI! Your entries are so inspiring! It’s great to see you diving into these topics and bringing your unique perspective to the table—especially for the 55+ crowd looking for their dream home in sunny Arizona. Keep it up! 🌟🏡

Apr 01, 2025 04:02 AM
Patricia Feager

Well lookie you, Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI

I just knew I could count on you for the March 2025 AR Challenge, Sharing the Gift of Who You Are!

So, here I am at the coffee shop bright and early again this morning and I'll be reading all four of your entries. Thanks for taking the challenge. What a great way for me to start my day too!

Thank you!!!

Apr 01, 2025 05:29 AM
Pat Starnes-Front Gate Realty
Front Gate Real Estate - Brandon, MS
601-991-2900 Office; 601-278-4513 Cell

Down to the wire, but I finished it!

Thank you both for your efforts in this month's challenge.

A Walk Down Memory Lane - The Million Dollar Club

Mar 31, 2025 09:15 PM
Lew Corcoran

Thanks for sharing this beautiful reflection, Pat Starnes-Front Gate Realty! It’s amazing how those early mentors guided your journey, and it’s clear their wisdom helped shape the successful agent you are today. Here’s to the power of great mentorship! 🌟

Apr 01, 2025 04:13 AM
Patricia Feager

Hi Pat Starnes-Front Gate Realty - I received notification via email notification, but I couldn't get to a public place to read it or reply until this morning. I'll be sure to read it very soon! My AR account is still "Forbidden."

Thank you for your story! I know it's going to be good!

Apr 01, 2025 05:12 AM
Patricia Feager

Pat Starnes-Front Gate Realty - WOW! Not many agents had the opportunity to walk down Millionaire's Row and get featured in the local newspaper! You must have been on a natural runner's high filled with adrenaline right from the start of your career! Choosing the right Broker to sponsor you with people willing to help launch your career is the best way for an agent to succeed. And you're still succeeding!!!

Congratulations!!!

Apr 01, 2025 05:25 AM
Lew Corcoran
Better Living Real Estate, LLC - East Bridgewater, MA
Expert guidance. Exceptional results.

Honoring Our Journey Together in the ActiveRain Community

 

In the month of March, we came together in the ActiveRain Challenge, "Sharing The Gift of Who You Are." I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated! Your stories and insights have truly enriched our community.

 

The Beauty of Shared Experiences

 

Each entry in this challenge showcased how diverse backgrounds and experiences shape us into who we are today. For instance, Kathleen Daniels shared powerful moments that built her resilience. By stating, "I know where all the bodies are buried," she highlighted life-defining events that not only tested her but also refined her spirit.

 

Additionally, Nick Vandekar's journey on the Camino De Santiago opened our eyes to the insights gained from fellow pilgrims. Walking alongside others can teach invaluable lessons about perseverance and connection.

 

Learning from Mentorship

 

Dorie Dillard reminded us that we get by giving. Through Floyd Wickman’s philosophies, she transformed her approach to real estate, illustrating how nurturing others can lead us to success. Similarly, Roy Kelley reflected on mentorship, illustrating how his lessons from family shaped his passion.

 

Cherishing Family Bonds

 

Family played a significant role in shaping the narratives shared this month. For example, Brian England’s tribute to his dad and brothers resonated deeply, showcasing the bonds that empower us. Likewise, Barbara Michaluk honored her husband, expressing gratitude for his unwavering support throughout their partnership.

 

Growth Through Reflection

 

Many contributors discussed how embracing life's challenges and mistakes leads to growth. Bob "RealMan" Timm emphasized that each mistake is a learning opportunity. In the same vein, Patricia Feager shared how her children shaped her resilience and strength.

 

As we read these stories, we realized that humble beginnings don't define our endpoint; instead, they set the stage for amazing transformations, like blooming into an extraordinary rose.

 

Conclusion

 

As we wrap up this challenge, it's clear that we’re not just sharing facts; we're sharing our gifts—our experiences, our mentors, our challenges, and the people who have shaped us.

 

Even though the challenge has come to an end, I encourage each and everyone of you to continue sharing your stories! Your experiences matter, and can inspire someone else on their journey.  So let’s keep this energy going and continue to share who we are with one another, because knowing each other beyond the surface makes our community stronger.

 

And finally, a huge shout out to Patricia Feager for being an incredible co-host on this wondrous journey together! Your enthusiasm and insightful contributions have made this experience truly memorable. It’s been a pleasure collaborating with you and sharing the stories that connect us all. Here’s to many more adventures ahead!

 

Apr 01, 2025 05:28 AM
Patricia Feager
Referral Specialist - DFW FINE PROPERTIES - Flower Mound, TX
Licensed to April 2027

Lew Corcoran - Championing this March 2025 AR Challenge: Sharing the Gift of Who You Are was an enjoyable month of gift giving. I'm glad we co-hosted together! Without the members of ActiveRain life would be dull, and the impacts and inspirations would be by far less. 

Thank you, Lew. 

Apr 01, 2025 05:43 AM