Tools for Transformation Tuesday: Watching the Sunrise

Rising before the sun isn't an anomaly in our home - most mornings find me up around 5am to meet with a client and/or enjoy a pre-dawn morning yoga practice, and the babe and her papa are up shortly thereafter to commence their own morning routines. But rising early as a family without an agenda is a rarity. On our final day at the beach last week, the three of us ventured out to watch the sun rise over the ocean. We left our sleepy dwelling and wandered down streets lined by similarly still houses. As we turned onto the main street we noted not one coffee shop or diner was open and not one car crept down the street. A single, solitary runner and a few birds chasing the surf gave the only indication we were not completely alone on the island. 

Arriving at a city pier that extended far into the water, we were surprised to find two gentlemen sitting silently together. As if anticipating our arrival, the younger of the two welcomed us, explaining that he and his father have been meeting daily at this very spot to watch the sun rise together for more than a decade. As we waited in silence, I fell in love with the idea of beginning every day in this way: joining a loved one to witness the miracle brought about by each sunrise. Sharing the daily wonder of a new opportunity to set aside whatever may have gone awry the day before and starting again with a fresh perspective. 

As the first light began to appear over the horizon, we grew excited - trying to guess precisely where the first slice of orange would slip into view. And then it happened - a shimmer became a sliver became a perfect sphere - finally ascending above the skyline.

A daily ritual of watching the sun rise over the ocean isn't feasible for most of us, but each new day offers a reminder of the miracle of renewal. Can you embrace the morning as an opportunity to let go of whatever is no longer useful and set (or renew) an intention for your day?