I walked out to the parking lot last night after the second Rich Chicks’ Monetary Identity class, the one on values. Even though here in Minnesota we are still in the midst of an unpredictable winter, it felt really good to be outside. The air smelled of melting snow and I could feel my feet getting wet from standing in a shallow puddle that was as big as the parking lot. I lingered a bit and looked up at the nearly black sky, where millions of tiny icy diamonds twinkled.
A melty winter night in a parking lot seems such a small thing in the Big Picture, like those teeny studs of ice in the sky, but it felt especially wondrous to me. To be here at this time, on this planet, connecting with other people from very diverse backgrounds and experiences; hearing their thoughts and plans is quite exceptional. Listening is one of the greatest gifts you can give or get, and there was a lot of that going on.
I think knowing what is really important to me by continuing to clarify my values in a deep way helps me to enjoy life more. I do know what I want and need. I expect life to be interesting and fun. You can define “interesting” in a number of ways, and sometimes what you thought you wanted comes to you in a very interesting way. So how about your values—do you know what is really, really important to you? How are you honoring your values?
Twinkle, twinkle-Karen
About Karen
You can be philosophical just about anywhere. Your descriptions were great. I think I am connected to what I value and what is important but it hasn’t always been that way. Thanks for the blog post.
Being completely where you are is the best invitation to insight, joy, and inspiration. Good reminder to take those opportunities where you find them.
When my children were young, I tried to translate my values of family, honesty, respect, etc. And as they grow, you sometimes wonder if you did as good a job as you hoped for. I now see my grandchildren growing and their behavior and attitides regarding respect of others, love of living creatures and nature as well as caring and concern for those who are less fortunate is all there. I look at the wonderful job my daughter has done in raising her children and the values we respect as a family are all there. How lucky we are! Thank you for reminding us that personal values are more than just words.
Thank you–knowing what is important in your life is number ONE.
Hi Karen,
I love your poetic way of describing a Minnesota night. I live in Minnesota and can certainly appreciate the feelings you have expressed here. For as much as we downplay winter, I think that it is a beautiful part of my life every year. Thanks for sharing this.
Thanks, Amy! I have a love/hate relationship with winter. It’s often beautiful, and COLD. Luckily, I don’t have to shovel and the car is parked indoors. Haven’t seen you in like forever–how are you doing? K3
As you know, just when I think I have it all figured out, I don’t 🙂 I just keep plugging away!