"There are no days so memorable as those which vibrated to some stroke of the imagination."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson -

It was a tree  and a mountain that captured my imagination in 2014. They were both strong and resilient offering different perspectives. Let me explain.

Part of the charm of living in South Minneapolis is sharing space with beautifully 'matured' trees. Over the years, I rationalized my Silver Maple's residence in my back yard by reflecting

Farewell Silver Maple

on the cooling shade she provided in the summer, the  protective shelter she offered to birds and squirrels,  and the obstacle course she created for visiting dogs.  She graced this space for more that 125 years and in the end, she was tired and I was lucky. 

The beautiful September morning she came down,

Best Decision EVER!

I both grieved and celebrated.  She had been a part of my life for so long, the thought of losing her made me profoundly sad. But then I remembered that  letting go of anything - a loved one, a friend,  a client, a  belief or even a tree... creates space for new possibilities - if only we choose to to see them. 

For the past couple of years,  looking up from the base of this tree knowing in my heart that she had become weak and needed to come down, brought waves of sadness, grief and loss.  The 10 minutes I sat  in the rotted out trunk of the tree, provided a new perspective of  gratitude and appreciation. It is amazing how a different view of the same situation changes ones perspective.

Standing on Machu Picchu the past fall over looking the sacred valley of Peru was by any measure an amazing experience.  The elevation (8,000 feet) alone took my breath away (literally).

Machu Picchu

But there was something about feeling so firmly grounded on this mountain that offered a perspective of sincere respect and compassion for the Peruvian people.  They live differently than we do - they speak a different language, eat different foods and partake in different rituals.  Their joy of life is abundant.

I have been blessed throughout my life with the opportunity to travel the world and experience interesting cultures.  More than anything, these opportunities have served to broaden my perspective and gain sincere appreciation for what I have in my life. 

As 2014 comes to a close, I am drawn to the wisdom of Ralph Waldo Emerson.  My hope in the New Year is that you and I have many days that are sparked by imagination. Whatever that may look like for you, it is a true gift.

As always, I wish you a happy, healthy holiday season and an EXTRAORDINARY 2015!  

Warmly,

Lisa