I got really behind on this due to my business trip to Monterey and other life busy-ness. I want to keep going so I’m going to catch up now!
7. enliven [GROW]: Was there a book or article that inspired you to make a change in your life this year? What was the source and what did you change?
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig was the best and most challenging book I read this year. It taught me a lot about philosophy but also went over my head a lot. As I mentioned here, the book really helped me realize how TERRIBLE I am at staying in the moment. I’m trying to get better at breathing in the present without fixating on the future, but it’s going to be a lifelong process. Here are a couple quotes from the book:
“The place to improve the world is first in one’s own heart and head and hands, and then work outward from there.”
“The truth knocks on your door and you say, “Go away, I’m looking for the truth,” and so it goes away.”
“When you are no longer thinking ahead, each footstep isn’t just a means to an an end but a unique event in itself. This leaf has jagged edges. This rock looks loose. From this place the snow is less visible, even though closer. These are things you should notice anyway. To live only for some future goal is shallow. It’s the sides of the mountain that sustain life, not the top. Here’s where things grow.
8. respond [LISTEN]: Do you actively listen to your inner voice/conscience? Describe a time this year you heard and responded to it.
I certainly do try to. Planning a laid back, nontraditional wedding is an example of this.
9. triumph [CREATE]: How were you challenged by a project or goal this year? What did you learn from it?
The editing of La Aventura Project into a documentary is an enormous undertaking. I learned that maybe I shouldn’t promise to make a documentary and then end up with a million other things to do and no time to edit.
10. lose [HOPE]: Did you have to say goodbye to a person, or even a cherished object, this year? Take a moment to celebrate the memory
I didn’t say goodbye to anyone permanently (I hope!) but I did say goodbye to many people as we traveled, moved, hosted Couchsurfers, etc. Saying goodbye to the nomadic lifestyle was hard! It was an amazing year on the road all over America. But we’ll travel again!
11. spend/save [LIVE]: Are you richer or poorer this year, compared to last year?
Poorer! But all that money went towards great times and great memories! I don’t regret it for a second.