The month of May slipped by without a journal and before I knew it, June had arrived.
I did sit down a few times to write you all, and each time I found myself wandering off in another direction. There has been a lot happening here lately, some exciting, some challenging, and all of it has left me thinking about how easily we can lose sight of what matters.
I think it can be said that I am a pretty productive person. I like making things. I like building things. I like having projects on the go and ideas taking shape. There is always another painting waiting in the studio, another retreat to plan, another opportunity just over the horizon. Most days I wouldn't have it any other way.
But every now and then, life has a way of interrupting our plans and reminding us that not everything important can be measured by what we accomplish.
Lately I've found myself considering how much energy we spend tending to things that feel urgent, and how little time we sometimes give to the things that are truly important. I've been reminded that the people we love deserve the same attention we so willingly give to our obligations.
It's funny. We know this, of course. None of this is new information. Yet somehow we all need the reminder from time to time.
The RETREAT book is nearly here after years of work. The studio is busy. Summer retreats are just around the corner. There are many good things unfolding. And yet the lesson that keeps finding me lately has very little to do with any of those things.
It has to do with being present for the people I'm closest to. Sitting with them a little longer. Picking up the phone. Making the visit. Listening a little more closely and storing away the sweet nuances that might otherwise be missed.
The work matters. I believe that deeply. Creating beautiful things matters. Building a meaningful life matters.
But it's our people who matter most.
Love,
Laura xo
