It’s inevitable! In our lifetime there will be an event in which our foundation falls away. Whether it's an untimely death, a devastating divorce, a career disruption or property destruction, who will you become when the walls that once contained you have fallen from your side? 

After five weeks away from home while providing staffing for a out of state clinic, I decided a few days at the beach would be a welcomed reprieve from work that continues to be more demanding.  The unattainable goal placed on all healthcare providers, today, is to treat more patients.  However, standing at the edge of the sea placed me in a state of full appreciation for the work that I've been chosen to do. Nothing feels wrong in the presence of nature's resounding strength; and nothing did until I returned home.

Once picked up from the airport, the car was filled with laughter, as my friend and I exchanged recent absurdities in our lives, mine often occurring in the airports during my travels. As we pulled into my driveway, I had a sense that something was out of order. I began getting my luggage from the car and upon opening the garage door, a gush of two inches of water flooded our feet. We both stood stunned, as most of the garage ceiling had collapsed, half of which was on my car.  We cautiously entered the house through swollen doors only to find collapsed ceilings throughout the entire house with water continuing to pour. What had gone wrong? I travel often and frequently for extended weeks, always returning to a home that has been kept safe. We traversed to a soggy second floor to find water overflowing onto a weakened and buckled floor. Walls were crumbling, furniture was damaged and mildew was invading all of my belongings.  This resembled the destruction and devastation that I had only viewed from afar, in broadcast coverage of natural disasters.

Sympathetic, saddened and offering me as much time as I needed to stay at her home, I quickly grabbed important files.  In closing the door behind me, I, somehow, knew there would be triumph in this tragedy. Initially feeling overwhelmed by the work that was ahead of me, I simply began asking for guidance.  I awoke at 2AM the next morning and began writing emails; first, to my brother whose support I can always rely on. I'm not sure that I would call him a praying man but he is one of unwavering optimism and therefore a pillar of faith. The next request was to my long time sage, realtor and friend who is always a resource of qualified contractors and consultants, along with her profound insight; and lastly, to an interior design friend who could guide me through the rebuilding process with inspired beauty.  The following morning I realized this daunting task would not just demand doing, it would require believing. Without hesitation I made the call to a Unity minister who had recently joined me for lunch at my home while visiting during a conference.  He immediately responded to my plea for strength and began laying the foundation with his prayer filled phone presence. With a renewed trust in the process, I deepened my resolve with a call to my beloved cousin and prayer warrior who knows no defeat.

As the clean-up began, my QiGong yoga master continued show me how to keep my energy strong and my spirit light. Most have commented, “You’re taking this so well. How can you be so calm?” My answer, “I’m rooted in faith by a daily meditative practice expecting only my greatest good”. There was a time when even I could have thought this sounded like a cliché of wishful thinking. Yet, as I affirm by belief, life seems to believe in me.

Although I have been displaced from my home, with most of my belongings stored away, all of my needs are met. A lesson worth learning was, ‘I am not my possessions, nor are my possessions my source of happiness’. I was reminded of this by one of my Tao trainers whose goal is to possess one hundred items or less. This may seem austere for most but he says it becomes easier when you are clear about is that which brings you true contentment. I have continued to serve others for what I believe to be their greater good and Wa La! I have remained comforted and cared for. Yes, the list of details in rebuilding a home are enduring.  Yet, by moving our thoughts away from the challenge and towards the desired possibilities, all things are overcome with greater ease. 

Eight months later, the renovation is nearly complete.  Each day I am renewed by the practices taught by masterful teachers. I am so grateful to have a community around me that continues to say ‘YES’, not just to my needs but to living enriched lives.  This story is not about my house being restored.  It is about being personally rebuilt for a life of greater purpose. 

With every event in our life there is a greater lesson, a deeper calling for us to realize an unfolding of something greater. Perhaps, you've experienced untimely changes to familiar circumstances. Or maybe, it’s simply time to assess that which has been overlooked, forgotten or ignored.  Have you outgrown an environment that limits the best of who you are?
By now, you must know that I’m also referring to you’re health, happiness, vitality and well-being.

Let’s stay connected.  There are greater tools for you to be re-built, renewed & restored.