How would you feel if you found out you could never come back to your “place”?

On our sunrise beach walks, Roxie (The Wonder Pup) and I invariably connect with a few Atlantic Beach neighbors on the morning sands.  We exchange pleasantries. Roxie gets her ears scratched. And we all enjoy the dawning of the day.  It’s a peaceful and consistent time.

Photo (c) Steve Piscitelli

A few days ago, we stopped to say hello to one of the beach morning crew.  When I asked how she was doing, her eyes immediately filled with tears.

She shared that she and her family would have to relocate by year’s end.  She waved her arm toward the ocean and softly said that she loved where she lived and would miss it—a lot. Just the thought of leaving this peaceful and energizing place moved her emotionally.

Her reaction reminded me of the power of place in our lives.  Place, for me, represents where we feel at home; where we enjoy a sense of security, vitality, and connection.  At times, we might take the place (or places) in our lives for granted. We get caught up in the busy-ness of life and forget to simply be for a few moments and enjoy the environment that can be life sustaining.

With that in mind, mentally take note of the top-five places in your life. Perhaps you think of the backyard fire pit, the park, your road bike, the volleyball court, a formal structure of worship, your mediation room, your office, the gym, or just about any place that brings you a sense of peace.  A place that you love to be.  For some, the place may not be geographic as it is located within.

Photo (c) Steve Piscitelli

Consider what connects this particular place to your inner self?  When was the last time you were in this happy place? When will you go back? When you are in your place, do you savor the moment and disconnect from “life out there” while you reconnect with yourself? How would you feel if you found out you could never come back to your place?

Perhaps you already understand the power of place. If so, do you have a friend who is encountering a challenging time and could benefit from connection or reconnection with a special location?

When we are able to be with people we love, pursuing a purpose we love, in a place we love, we have found a sweet spot. A place of solace that allows us time to breathe.

Video/song recommendation for the week:

Jimmy Buffet reminds us of the power of place with his song “Tin Cup Chalice.” Oh, “I wanna be there.”

Make it an inspiring week and H.T.R.B. as needed.

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(c) 2016. Steve Piscitelli. All rights reserved.