Lessons from Lake O'Hara

Lessons from Lake O’Hara

I had the good fortune of spending the last three days in Lake O’Hara with three people who have known me my entire life, my mother, my God mother and my God father.  They have been going to stay at the lodge for 20 years and this year my mom asked me if I wanted to join her.  I said yes but thought nothing more of it since we are in a global pandemic, and it very well may not have been open.  Low and behold summer came, the lodge opened up again and there I was on the bus with these three lovely people.  What a gift to hear their stories, share in their memories of the past and spend some time with them in what is obviously one of their favourite places in the world and is now one of my favourite places too.  It was a different trip for them because some dear friends and family were missing but here are 10 things I learned from this incredible experience.

1.     You will never forget the kindness extended to you by others or the kindness you extend to others.

2.     A day outside in the mountains makes everyone feel better.

3.     Always have a dream.

4.     It is ok to be part of someone else’s dream especially if that someone else is your mother.

5.     Ask for other people’s names and remember their names and never be afraid to ask questions.

6.     Say Thank You.

7.     Make the time to play games with each other.

8.     An afternoon nap makes everything better.

9.     Stop and look at the flowers AND their leaves.

10.  Listening is just as important as talking.

These three people have shaped who I am as a person.  Their friendship with each other and with me is very special and something to be treasured.  I feel very lucky to have been able to share time with them in such a special place.  We are always learning, and I am grateful to have these three people to be learning from. 

Who shapes you and who do you learn from?