Passions as a Resource (from 2018)
When I was recovering from vocal cord surgery, I could barely whisper. My sister wanted to test that and REALLY see if I had a voice. She said, “Pretend Steve Young is right over there. Now call to him.” She knew that if I had any voice my determination to get Steve’s attention would
come through!
We are all told to draw on our inner resources to recover from a tragedy, rebound from a breakup, or get through the day! But where do those inner resources come from? Anything you’re passionate about or that even makes you smile. Everyone’s inner resources, fed by their passions, are unique. By parlaying your passions into your resources, you can make use of those resources and turn them into actions.
Twelve years ago today, my life transformed from healthy, happy single mom to physicallychallenged, under lots of medical care, single mom. Yes, I have some physical challenges, but I use my passions as a resource every day, whether it’s watching my pack of dogs play or cuddling with my new puppy!
Next week, this physically-challenged single mom is taking her 2 kids (24 and 20!) on an adventure to San Juan Island, Washington. San Juan Island is a 2-hour drive and short Ferry ride from Seattle. It’s part of a group of islands bordering Canada and Puget Sound with magnificent awe-inspiring scenery. Why am I going? WHALES! San Juan Island is one of the best places to observe Orcas, killer whales. I rented a house overlooking the area whales are known to pass and we’ll be going out on whale-watching boats daily. I’ve been to this island twice and I’m excited to share my passion with my kids.
Always remember that your passion is one of your most valuable resources and you always do the best you can with the resources you have! Update: We took this trip in August, 2018. We rented a house overlooking Haro Strait, a known feeding area for Resident Orcas. Unfortunately, salmon runs were exceptionally low that year, and the Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKW) did not return that year. We made the most of our time on the island, and saw other whales, but not the SRKW. Passion meets Purpose–Make it Happen!
• Maximize your resources. Do your best with what you have; convert passions to resources.
• Read and Plan. Learn as much as you can about what inspires you. Inspiration is the spark that takes your breath away.
• Modify your goals, if necessary, but stay true to yourself.
