Pain Makes You Beautiful 

I’ve learned more in 2016 than in the last ten years combined.  I’ve learned to cherish and be grateful for every day no matter how stressful or mundane.  I’ve learned to seek the counsel of my inner circle, ask for help when necessary, and remain calm regardless of what comes my way.  Most importantly, I learned that I am stronger mentally and physically than I ever dreamed.

I’ve sat in stunned silence and felt my heart breaking.  I’ve woken up to perfect summer days with eyes full of tears. I’ve endured the sorrow of what was, and what can never be.

Now, five months later, I sit in Chow in Lafayette, California having breakfast. It is early January and I’m meeting with a former colleague of mine.  We worked together at a successful startup that made music equalization software. It was a glamorous gig and I spent a lot of time in New York City and Los Angeles as their Director of Marketing. I’m not sure when to drop the bomb as I’m pitching him on my own startup.  Finally, I just drop it and tell him. Men always take this news the hardest.

2017 has begun and as with other seasons, like long summers, the time has come for things to end and we move on to the next chapter. I spent two weeks in Truckee in the Tahoe Basin doing hardly more than sleeping. Yes, I had a ski pass and I skied daily even if it was just for a few hours. I entertained friends, hiked with my dog, and sat by the fire and spent time with my children, and of course I worked.  But most nights it was lights out before eleven and I would sleep until 9 am.

It prepared me for the challenges ahead and all of the recalibration that comes with life changes of this magnitude.  My life is busy and full, and I am thankful for the structure that remains from the past, but I am especially thankful for the new people that have come into my life and for the work I am doing now that will create my future.

It’s not just pain that makes a person beautiful.  It is experience that imparts compassion and empathy giving depth to the eyes, and warmth to the soul.

And sleep, and lots of it, can do wonders for anyone.

Happy New Year.