My husband reminded me this week that we have had the privilege of visiting two of the most beautiful places in the world this summer.
In June, we spent several weeks in Hanalei Bay, Kauai. We sat on the beach listening to the soft lapping of waves in front of us, our feet in the soft, warm sand, with dramatic mountains and waterfalls behind us. I would float in the water looking at those waterfalls and once or twice a sea turtle swam by. One day we saw dolphins jumping off in the distance. Absolute heaven on earth.
After briefly returning to work, I was off once again for our annual “cousins week” trip to Lake Tahoe, another of my favorite places on the planet. Fresh, cold water was just as beautiful as the warm salt water of the Pacific. The blues of Tahoe are unbelievable. The colors impress me every time I go, even after going for almost thirty years.
So what’s my hot take on all this? First is the fact that although people and events are feeling ugly, it feeds my soul to be in nature, to be reminded that there is beauty all around us, even when there is also danger and darkness. (Although even in the darkness, there was a sky full of twinkling stars dotting the black expanse)
Second, it’s a reminder to be grateful. I am fortunate to have the means to travel to these gorgeous places. Yes, I work hard and so does my husband, but lots and lots and lots of people work hard and still can barely afford the basics of their lives. We are lucky that we grew up when and where we did and bought our house before the market went insane…on and on it goes…we are fortunate and I am grateful.
This also makes me think about a recurring conversation I’ve had with many people over the past year about the places you’ve been that inspire awe. For me, it’s both of these places (specifically the Na Pali Coast in Kauai and that first view of Tahoe when I drive over 267), but also the rim of the Grand Canyon (especially at sunrise), glaciers of Alaska, Yosemite valley. Those places quite literally take my breath away, make me smile, perhaps even bring tears to my eyes.
What are your places? Where and when have you felt awe, been immersed in beauty? Take a minute to relish those memories and be grateful for the wonder of those experiences. Oh, and share them with me, too. I’d love to know where to visit next!