Summer solstice is here with the sun setting at 7:42 PST. The longer days beckon us outdoors to enjoy the beauty the natural world offers us.

Recently retired, I find myself drawn to my neglected backyard to trim the overgrown ivy strangling some plants and wrapping around the lemon tree. I am pulling weeds and planting flowers and carefully nurturing them. Previously, I’ve not been one to garden as pulling weeds gets discouraging when they just keep returning. However, now that I have newfound time, I am finding digging in the earth a peaceful experience that lifts my spirits and is grounding, (no pun intended, ha!). 

 Getting outdoors, I am feeling motivated by a vision to create a little oasis of sorts and I am slowing working to manifest a sacred space to enjoy. Ah, to sit under the shade of a tree, listen to birdsong, and feel a warm breeze on my face, maybe read a book or delight in idle conversation. A former colleague and a great mentor to many, comes to mind offering her sage wisdom, “remember Liz, don’t squander your summer!”

As I transitioned from a fulfilling career of 47 years in healthcare, there was an initial sadness that endings can bring. I have crossed the threshold of a changing landscape that is encouraging me to savor little moments and to appreciate the precious gift of each new day. We get to create our own personal masterpiece. Life is asking something of me, beckoning me to let go of enticing distractions of technology and to come home to my inner sanctuary.

Wishing you a splendid summer and remember… don’t squander your summer!

Liz Sorensen Wessel
Watercolor by ~liz