Chautauqua Summer

With summer upon us, I am spending this week at the Chautauqua Institution in western New York State. Chautauqua has become an annual event for my family and me, as a time of renewal, regeneration, and relaxation. This year, we not only get to spend time with our extended family members, but we will also share the week with my friend and colleague, Erika Jackson. This will be her second week at Chautauqua this summer, so she's making everyone jealous! Here is a reflection piece that she wrote following one of her previous visits to grounds. Enjoy!

Recently I took a week's vacation in the place I consider my sacred space, the Chautauqua Institution in western New York. At this point, I have been going to Chautauqua each summer for more than half of my life. It is in this place where each year I rediscover peace of mind, stillness of spirit, and a joy that comes from having stillness honored.

What's The Secret?
So, what is it about Chautauqua that gets me in such a state of bliss? The people? No, I go with my family, who all live within 15 minutes of my home here in Ohio. Is it the music? No, I am surrounded with musicians all year long. Is it the intellectual challenge through lecture and discussion each day? No, the people in my life engage in the same level of intense reflection and debate on a regular basis.

It's Where Your Heart Is
No, it's not the place that makes me so joyful, it is me. It is the shift in my perspective each time I walk through the main gate and onto the grounds. I can literally feel my body allowing itself to relax. My mind releases the "To Do" lists, the unresolved issues, and the stressors of home in order to become fully present to its surroundings.

A New Mindframe
What a glorious revelation this has been for me! I do not have to settle for a one-week vacation at Chautauqua. I can have a "Chautauqua Summer" simply by intentionally applying the same shifts each day:

• Scheduling time to play and for creative joys
• Being present enough to enjoy things like the variety of colors on a single flower petal
• Setting non-negotiable boundaries for work time
• Honoring my body with gloriously healthy, fresh food
• Remembering that what is meant to be will come with ease
  

Make yours a Chautauqua Summer too!

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