Meet Myra – When opportunity is really a gift

Chance. Happenstance. Serendipity. Call it what you want, but sometimes you meet someone and truly feel like you may have encountered an angel, or perhaps you think of them as an unexpected gift. I had the opportunity just two weeks ago while traveling and I have to say, I still am feeling the energy from that introduction.

Here’s the thing: I probably only talked to Myra for 30 minutes, if that. (I share that because many times, I feel the best gifts come in the what seems small or seemingly-meaningless moments, and yet if we really allow ourselves to feel, we realize it was a great gift.) She greeted me in the corridors and we shared a walk to our next session. I then seemed to run into her several more times… Her smile, passion for life itself and her commitment to her health and wellbeing literally radiated around her.

Myra is 78 and from New York City where she’s led a full but hectic life. By my recollection of her story, she had been traveling to Canyon Ranch (where our program was) in Arizona for over 20 years. Somewhere early on in those years she decided her health and wellbeing (emotional, spiritual etc) were connected and that she would resolve to live her days out fully committed to being her best self in those areas of her life. Perhaps I saw myself in her story… realizing that her wisdom was something I needed to tune into?

I’m not sure yet what the purpose was for our introduction. Maybe when I go back next year I will meet Myra again and the story will unfold. Regardless, it occurred to me that there is opportunity around us each day if we open our eyes, minds and hearts to the many blessings and gifts that we are given. That simple handshake introduction today to a new colleague, that new staff member at your local restaurant or gas station, the person sitting next to you at your next event… They may be just the gift you need to inspire you to move your life to the next level. We never really know, but to me, it’s worth it every single time to greet someone with care, a spirit of love and a listening ear.

Have an amazing wrap to your week! GO CHIEFS!