What inspires me
 

Someone asked me recently to name one thing that inspires me. It was a hard question, because I can name so many!

Community volunteers inspire me. On Saturday, I got to visit with the Littlejohn family and other volunteers planting flowers and removing invasive plants around Beaumont Magnet School, as part of Keep Knoxville Beautiful’s Schoolscapes initiative. My Mom was a big supporter of KKB's efforts, so it was especially meaningful to see this happening at a school that is near and dear to our family.

Neighbors supporting neighbors inspire me. On Sunday, I joined hundreds of neighbors cheering on Knoxville Marathon runners across the city. I love seeing the grit and determination of the runners, and the humor and good cheer of all the neighbors cheering them on.

Kids inspire me! On Monday, I got to play with kids at two new playgrounds in North Knoxville, and we glimpsed the solar eclipse through the clouds. Seeing the world through the eyes of a child -- that’s a wonderful thing.

People working to solve our community’s toughest challenges inspire me. On Tuesday, I joined about 1,000 people at the Justice Knox Nehemiah Action Assembly and committed to the hard work of solving homelessness.

We are so fortunate to be part of an active, compassionate, fun, and engaged city. Being your mayor inspires me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving you.

Very truly yours,