I’ve had experiences lately that I’d call extra special, so It’s made me aware of what fits that category. When I traveled to Charleston with friends, it was the food and laughter – OMG. When I was part of a graduation ceremony for our Mental Health Diversion court it was what was said and who was there. Our city’s annual DiverCity Festival that our non-profit participated in had extra special features, I even noticed it when Lee was playing a gig and in a celebration of life ceremony for a colleague.
Noticing what’s extra special is important. It makes life more interesting, meaningful and memorable. Here’re some of the things that I found extra special. See if these categories fit for you.
THE ELEMENT OF SURPRISE AND CREATIVITY
You love good food, right? But what if it is so creative and surprising in texture and flavor that you exclaim over and over and never want the meal to end? It was that unforgettable. At Lee’s gig, there were many beautifully creative moments when the crowd was really wowed. And at the Festival, seeing young Asian girls perform dances in their beautiful dresses was a lovely surprise.
EMOTIONALLY PROFOUND AND MEANINGFUL
Our graduation ceremony was extra special. A video interview of the grads talking about their experience in our program made me cry, Our Mayor, Chief of Police, Senator and Supreme Court Justice all spoke lovingly, telling them congratulations, joined by a room full of local leaders and professionals who have heart. My colleague’s funeral evoked loving and meaningful memories of our precious times together. It was all profoundly meaningful.
BEING PART OF SOMETHING THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
The graduation ceremony for our Mental Health Diversion Court and the DiverCity event are examples of events that are making a difference in the quality of life in our city. They are communicating a message that everyone’s life has purpose and deserves attention. I am humbled and proud to be affiliated with these things. Now more than ever being a part of something that makes a difference is important.
How does this speak to you? Reach out if you want to explore bringing more extra specialness into your life.
Photos – In Charleston, and the best oysters ever.
