"Embracing the Dance of Slowing Down and Listening to the Universe's Melody"
"I think I'm ready to step away from True Spruce," Annie, my wife and business partner for the last six years, said before dinner. The words lingered in the air as I processed them. "Okay, I support that," I replied, trying to mask my racing thoughts. I began formulating plans in my head to hire a manager and another employee, attempting to fill the void that Annie's departure would create.
A few days later, Annie asked me a question that struck a chord, "Do you really want to train more people before the chaotic summer season?" The answer was simple, "No, I don't." The thought of it overwhelmed me. It suddenly became clear—I was done too. And just like that, the decision was made. We composed heartfelt farewells, bidding adieu to the loyal clients and friends who had journeyed alongside us. True Spruce would close its doors at the end of the ski season, a mere month away. The dreams of growth and a picturesque life amidst the mountains of Steamboat Springs dissolved, and an uncertain path beckoned, and we embraced it with open hearts.
Our ten-day vacation to visit friends on their farm in Hawaii morphed into something more profound—an odyssey of transformation. With a sense of uncertainty, we left everything behind. While we had some savings, the discomfort of not knowing what lay ahead loomed over us. We boarded a flight to the Big Island, dragging our toddlers through TSA, and embarked on a journey that would reshape our lives.
Over the course of five months, we slowed waaaaay down. I discovered the joy of reading, the solace of meditation, and the beauty of each moment, savoring the delicate balance between joy and the challenges of raising young children. Amidst the tantrums, self-doubt, and moments of isolation, we embraced every thread of our journey—the good, the bad, and the beautifully messy.
We journeyed from the Big Island to Hana, Maui, to caretake a friend's property. It was during this time that something unexpected happened. One night, while aimlessly scrolling my Amazon Kindle, I stumbled upon a book. I devoured its pages, finishing it in the middle of the night. In that very moment, a realization struck me, and my new career path became clear—an idea ignited by the universe itself. The clarity of that instant felt surreal, as if all my past experiences and adventures had led me to this defining moment. I resolved to merge my passion for coaching wrestling and combat sports with my entrepreneurial spirit—why not coach both athletes and leaders? That spark was the catalyst, and ten months later, I am still forging my path coaching athletes and leaders.
In the embrace of Hana's crashing waves and sun-kissed shores, a sense of restlessness tugged at our souls. The island's ethereal energy, its mana, was nudging us to return home. We heeded its call, venturing back to Nebraska—a land of biting winds and frigid winters. It seemed inconceivable, but the whispers of the universe carried us, guiding us to our roots, where Annie and my families both lived.
Now, ten months after our return, as we trade white sand beaches and citrus trees for flat land plains and cornfields, the purpose behind our decision becomes clearer. It was about reconnecting with our families, accepting and forgiving old wounds, and embracing the present moment of our lives. Annie and I had the space to create and develop businesses aligned with our values. I am no longer the person I was in Steamboat Springs, and our family has evolved as well. While I hold deep respect for the person I once was, and for my wife and our family during that time, it was necessary to change.
I am grateful for the choice we made to slow down, be present, and listen. By embracing the unknown, I have become more aware and accepting of the range of emotions that come with being a husband, father, son, and brother. I respond to situations with newfound presence, no longer driven by unconscious reactions. Self-doubt, tantrums, sadness, and joy—all are welcomed in our lives. I am thankful for the lessons learned through slowing down and listening to the wisdom within our souls and in the universe.
Thanks, Jordo! Proud of you brother!
No value to add. Just throughly enjoyed reading this one!