A
few days ago, Hurricane Sandy tore through the Northeast. From the safety of
my 6th floor apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan - an area
that was spared the flooding, power outages and damage others experienced - I am
able to reflect on the lessons that the hurricane can teach us. I know it is a
luxury to be able to sit in my safe and warm home and reflect on these lessons.
To those who are dealing with the aftermath of the storm and who don’t have the
luxury to ruminate, I send my very best wishes for a speedy and full recovery.
Here
are the reminders I took from Sandy:
· Show Gratitude – Those who’ve read this blog over time know that over
and over again, I am thankful for my good fortune, in good times and in bad. In
the wake of Hurricane Sandy, I am thankful for my intact and lovely home, and
for the safety of my family who is hunkered down with me in it. I am reminded
to experience and show my gratitude.
·
Be connected – Before the storm landed, millions of people across
the Northeast were warned of what could be coming their way. Millions were in
the path of the hurricane. What happened to some could have happened to any of
us. I am reminded that we are all connected by how life starts and ends and
what life puts in our way. Additionally, I appreciated the number of inquiries
from friends, colleagues, and even distant acquaintances, asking how we were
faring. I am reminded that I am not alone; that there are people out there who
care. I am reminded to be one of them.
·
Remember your priorities – Each notification I’ve received letting me know that
my office, or my childrens’ schools, are still closed ends with a statement to
the effect of “your safety is of utmost importance.” I am reminded by the
hurricane of what matters most. I am reminded to pay attention to the safety
and health of myself and my loved ones, even when a tropical storm isn’t
brewing around us.
·
Slow down – In coaching, I’m often reminding clients to slow
down and to be present; to experience what is happening, rather than rushing through
it. Going in to our 6th day in the house with not as much to do and
not as many places to go, I am savoring the rare opportunity to slow down, and
I’m reminded of the importance of stepping out of the usual routines now and
again to reflect on the sorts of things this post is highlighting.
·
Recover – Coaching is, in part, about noticing what’s gone wrong
and then recovering. While communities around me clean up from the devastation
of Hurricane Sandy, I am reminded of what I need to right and repair in my life and am more
motivated to do it.
I
hope these reminders come to you free of any damage from the recent disaster.
All
the best,
~
Sophie
QUOTES
“Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets
us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help.” ~ May Sarton, author
“You are one
of the forces of nature.” ~ Jules Michelet, French historian
