March 2023: Spring - The Power of Presence
“Spring is the best life coach: It gives you all the energy you want, all the positive thoughts you wish and all the boldness you need!”
― Mehmet Murat ildan
My lifelong dream is to be able to “winter” outside of Nashville during January/February. Sorry folks but if I can ever swing it, I’m outta here. Catch you all in March! People who move to Nashville from California always say that they miss having seasons and I agree, it does make you more thankful when the weather turns, but I wonder what it would be like to not experience the somberness and bask in the glory of sunshine year-round. I think I could manage.
There is something to be said though about all of us surviving it together and watching the city come back to life. I always say that winter is a period of growth while spring is the time of rebirth. I’m a much happier person with some consistent sunshine and outdoor activities. But what did we learn these past few months and how will we implement it for the rest of the year?
The Execution
“If you must look back, do so forgivingly. If you must look forward, do love prayerfully. However, the wisest thing you can do is be present in the present…Gratefully.”
– Maya Angelou
Is anyone else in shock that’s already April? I can’t believe it. Spring is here. We did it! Once summer hits, it’s over. Another year in the books. They always say in yoga to be present and yeah obviously, I want to enjoy and appreciate every moment too, but I do feel like I have a tendency to always be looking ahead and want to get to next thing or experience. On Mondays we want to get to Friday. During the winter we want to get to spring. If I’m super excited about a trip, it comes and goes in an instant and then I’m filling the void by looking ahead to the next excursion. There’s a song by Warren Zevon called “Enjoy Every Sandwich,” and I remind myself of that title daily. I feel overwhelmed so often about the “big picture” and trying get to the next place rather than taking a moment to enjoy where I am currently. Be cognizant of where you want to go and internalize it but chip away daily and focus on small wins rather than get too wrapped up in the long-term. You stay in shape by going to the gym every day and you have to start somewhere.
It’s Not About Where You Are, But Who You’re With
“Be around people that make you want to be a better person, who make you feel good, make you laugh, and remind you what’s important in life.”
― Germany Kent
Anyone remember FOMO? The best thing about the covid experience for me was abolishing that, for the most part. Sure it creeps in every once in a while, usually on a Monday where I flip on Instagram and somebody’s in the Bahamas, but I am honestly the most content enjoying a casual moment with great company. Or if I’m alone, I appreciate that time as well. You could put me anywhere (with the exception of the DMV, an airport, or any public place with a lot of people) and I will have the time of my life.
Remember in City Slickers when Curly alludes to the secret of life being one thing? I’m pretty sure he was talking about letting go of what’s out of your control and finding appreciation for small moments that bring you joy. Health, nice weather, and what’s right in front of you. That’s my one thing anyway. What’s yours?
Thoughts & Prayers for the Families of Covenant Presbyterian Nashville
It’s been a sorrowful week here in Nashville and it’s beyond unfortunate that something like this had to happen in our city for it to hit so close to home. We are an incredibly resilient community, and I am staying positive that those in power will eventually come together and figure out a solution to ensure that something like this doesn’t happen again. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families affected by this senseless tragedy.