Taking risks will kindle your fire.
~Jeanne Olen
Dear Jeanne,
Kindle my fire?
Yoga teacher Nikki surely kindled a fire in my hamstrings and abs on that cold winter morning when I first visited the Mindful Movement studio.
Thank you for inviting me to join you.
I had no idea that the tiny lunge outside of my comfort zone would topple a domino that would lead to limiting beliefs and rigidity falling away, erasing images I held of myself, and creating possibilities to grow, Grow, GROW! Time on my mat has helped me to learn that everything is connected… If I allow my light to shine, it opens opportunities for others to shine theirs, too.
We met on a sunny playground surrounded by the abundance and vigor of children. What I remember is two soft-spoken women slowly getting to know one another. We had a ready-made common interest — sons the same age, attending the same school where we worked.
Our socializing began through the lives of our children, and expanded into friendship circles involving the joy of food and good books. And then… the walking began in earnest… over the hills of Hillview Drive… two miles out, two miles back. I’m certain it would be impossible to measure the miles I grew, and continue to grow, through our connection.
I’ve heard it said that, “If you can see it, you can be it.”
I’ve watched you coax the shine out of little hearts and minds. I’ve enjoyed a banquet of delicious meals in your welcoming home. You’ve invited me to experience countless adventures that I’d never have considered for myself… like the Van Gogh exhibit last summer, which left a profound impression on my soul. Thank you for helping me to explore the length of my reach.
You inspire me to be a better person.
Gratitude and love,
Gail
Lovely story! In another universe, one might hear, “Now look what you made me do!” I feel quite certain that’s not the universe you and Jeanne Olen occupy!
I often wonder about the dynamics that affect the trajectory of a young person whose early years chart a course for bumping into difficulty. And yet they don’t?! I wouldn’t be surprised if those who transcend the early bumps might have crossed paths with a Jeanne or a Gail. Inspirational! Gently challenging to stretch a bit further! To practice smiling around peers! To dream! To get back on the horse!
I ache when I read of teachers and healthcare workers leaving their professions due to burnout. Sometimes the very good ones. The “growing” of replacements in these dystopian times has to keep pace with attrition. For the children. For all of our futures.