There are those who look at things the way they are, and ask why… I dream of things that never were, and ask why not?”         ~Robert Kennedy

SSI is really pleased to celebrate the naming of the Julie B. Whitt Inspirational Award winner for 2011. This memorial award, given annually by Soul Salon International, acknowledges a person who exemplifies the spirit of international fitness champion Julie B. Whitt and the traits that she was known for and shared without measure.  This includes being a person of character who inspires the full pursuit of life, health and excellence  in others.

The 2011 Julie Whitt Inspirational Award Winner is Clara Showalter of Austin, Texas.  Clara is a fitness professional and writer who began her own journey to fitness and health  in 2005 with the Body for Life program. It was through this program that Clara lost 60 pounds of weight and discovered the power of reaching out to help others. Clara now dedicates her time and energy to helping others discover their inner champion through her work as a personal trainer and leader in the Body-for-Life community.

When nominations come into the SSI office each spring through early fall, it is so energizing to read about great people doing great things. It is wonderful to talk with references for each nominee who want to share their experience about another human being whom they feel is making the world a little more light-filled.  Clara’s official nomination was multifaceted and highlighted her work as a cat foster aprent with Austin Pets Alive, her work as a personal trainer, Body-for Life top 10 finisher, the inspirational writing in her personal blog and her blog for Livestrong. I was struck by the words used to describe Clara time and time again.  Person after person who spoke about Clara used the words inspiring, positive, insightful, generous and caring.  In addition people shared that there were significant times of adversity in Clara’s life in which she displayed spirited courage—another attribute of the beloved Julie B. Whitt.

What are people saying about Clara?

• “Clara has the ability to assess the situation and determine whether you require a shoulder to cry on, a pat on the back, a stern word or a kick in the behind–and happily provides as appropriate.  Even when her own life is not traveling as she would like, she still makes time to help others.” ~A.S.

• “The things that she writes move everyone.” ~B.G.

• “She does not give up on anyone. She stands up for people when they cannot stand up for themselves.  She gives with no expectation of return.  Those of us who think in black and white, she helps us think in shades of gray.” ~M.T.

• “Clara is not afraid to speak the truth, even if it may be painful, but she does so as often as possible, in a kind way that helps encourage a person to move forward.” ~S.W.

• I hope you will join me in congratulating Clara and thanking her for being a person that would make Julie Whitt proud as she does good in the world for our two and four-legged friends.  Clara, the gift of your time, energy, kindness and authenticity is gratefully acknowledged today– and celebrated always.

A little more about Clara:

Clara is currently a National Academy of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer with a focus on functional performance and weight loss. She has previously worked for Bally Total Fitness. She is also a 2006 Body for Life Challenge top 10 Finalist. When not pondering deep thoughts or as she describes, “torturing her clients,” Clara can be found pestering new folks on BFL Spirit to reach for their best possible body and life.  In her spare time, Clara enjoys curling, and is a dedicated cat foster parent for Austin Pets Alive.

And to my SSI friends–Did you miss the 2011 nomination window?  Sign up for the SSI newsletter to be informed when the 2012 window is open!

All the best!

Rena M. Reese

Rena M. Reese is the founder of Soul Salon International, an inspirational multimedia company which offers coaching and consulting to help people find their happy place. She is the author of several inspirational titles, a professional speaker and coach as well as the host of a weekly radio program, The Soul Salon. Her articles are syndicated in print and online Please visit www.SoulSalonInternational.com and connect with her on Twitter @TheSoulSalon and on facebook