A Love Letter to Duluth

 

June 10, 2024 Regenerate Your World  Build the future you want to live in. I know these times aren't the easiest for all of us, but I am an optimist - I see the glass as refillable instead of half-full or half-empty. To brighten up your days, I publish the Regenerate Your World newsletter coming to your inbox on a bi-weekly basis. Let's Get Empowered!

A Love Letter To Duluth Photo of me along the North Shore, Shovel Point, right outside Silver Bay. I loved taking friends and family to explore this spot along the North Shore. Dear Empowered Reader, Today, I want to share a love letter to a place that has shaped me in more ways than I can express. Duluth, Minnesota. I have lived in Duluth for 13 years. Over that time I have fallen in love with the people and the beauty of the city. As I have shared in previous newsletters, I very recently moved to a new city, Northfield Minnesota, Northfield is about three hours south of Duluth which means it was time for me to say, "goodbye for now" to Duluth. As I thought about how to say "goodbye" to a place that has become a home for my husband and me, I thought it would be appropriate to write about my appreciation and reflect on what Duluth has taught me. In Duluth, I became who I am today. It was here, along the shore of Lake Superior and the pine trees, that I discovered my own resilience and inner strength. Every change of the season reminded me that change is ever present in my life. When things are good it will change, which is a good reminder to be thankful, and when there are challenges it will change, which is a good reminder that tough times don't last. The beauty of Duluth wasn't just a backdrop for the good times; it was there during times of grief. I learned how to take time in nature to process the loss of life, dreams, and friends.  The weather in Duluth is uncontrollable and affects the daily lives of all who live there. It was a daily reminder to let go. In letting go of what no longer served me, I found freedom and growth. Duluth taught me the art of release, showing me that sometimes, surrendering to the flow of life is the most courageous choice we can make. I learned the ability to set boundaries and that "clear is kind". Duluth also taught me the power of awe and gratitude. Whether it was a breathtaking icescape across the lake or the enjoyment of a quiet walk along the shore, I learned to cherish the small moments of joy that make life truly meaningful. I found one of the most wonderful moments of gratitude comes after going out for a winter cross-country ski. In preparing to go skiing, I learned to bring a hot mug of tea with me keeping it warm in a thermos. The first sip of tea after being in the cold is one of the most wonderful feelings. It is a reminder that even the smallest act can make a big difference. As you may have already noticed, nature became my greatest mentor in Duluth, teaching me valuable lessons about resilience, patience, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Through every season, from the fall colors to the snowfall of winter, I discovered the wisdom that lies in the natural world. Chatting with friends during a hike, the reward of a warm cup of tea after a ski, working hard to paddle back into shore after drifting into the Lake, these are all memories I will take with me. In Duluth, I found a new beginning, new connections, and a new way to view the world. As I shared my journey on social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, and in this newsletter, I found a supportive community of women who lifted me up and inspired me to keep growing. As I reflect on the woman I've become, I'm filled with gratitude for the role Duluth has played in shaping me. From the wide-eyed curiosity, I felt when my husband and I first moved in 2011 to the sense of belonging I feel today in 2024, this city has been a source of inspiration and renewal. So here's to Duluth—for all the ways it made me who I am today. May its beauty continue to nourish all who live and come to visit, empowering them to embrace their true selves and live their most authentic lives. As I say not “goodbye” but “see you later” I will always treasure the memories made. This was taken at about 5:30 am on a June morning, it was a wonderful Lake Superior Sunrise.  Winters last a long time in Duluth. I learned how to embrace winter and now I love to ski, snowshoe and even walk on the ice that has crashed into the shores of Lake Superior as seen in this photo. Time to do some reflection of your own! 1. How has nature played a role in shaping your personal growth and resilience?    Reflect on moments in nature that have impacted you deeply, whether it's a peaceful walk in the woods or the sight of a sunset.  How have these experiences helped you navigate challenges and find strength within yourself? 2. In what ways have you embraced the practice of letting go and surrendering to the flow of life?    Think about instances where you've had to release control and trust in the process of life unfolding.  How has this practice of letting go led to personal growth and transformation? 3. What aspects of your journey do you feel grateful for?    Take a moment to appreciate the lessons learned and the growth experienced along the way.  How have your experiences—both joyful and challenging—contributed to the person you are today?* Duluth is famous for its historic lighthouse, it marks the entrance into the Canal Park area of Duluth. My husband and I enjoyed many walks along Canal Park with views of the lighthouse. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here to get your own subscription. Duluth  by  Trampled by Turtles Duluth Lyrics I can't love you baby Like you need me to You'll give up on me I'll give up on you In the lines and the shadows Where my fear resides I can't go out that door It's so warm inside We can lie like sinners Breathe the air like children And you could lead and I could follow All those times are gone Still I like the quiet Of Duluth in the winter In the sacred bond There's no place like home

In the Media Where can you find EMPOWER Possible? Besides posting on my own social media I also collaborate with other entrepreneurs. This week I am going to throw back to the Empowered Heart to Heart Podcast as it is relevant to this topic I hTh I chatted with Rhonda Simmons about personal mission statements, listening to your true voice, and claiming your power. To listen HERE  Interested in catching up on our previous podcast episodes? We invite you to explore our library of past recordings, where we delve into a diverse range of topics related to happiness and well-being. https://empowerpossible.com/podcasts/

Connect with me on social media! Copyright © EMPOWERPossible  Northfield, MN. EMPOWER Possible is dedicated to empowering individuals, organizations, and communities to organize and act together to regenerate our world through Self, Social, and Systems transformation.  info@empowerpossible.com \ Website \ Mission You are receiving this email because you expressed an interest in my work—thank you! You can change your email preferences or unsubscribe at any time.  Disclaimer This newsletter contains content that has been modified and inspired by ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI. While we use ChatGPT to enhance our content, it should not be considered professional advice. For specific concerns or decisions, please consult with a qualified professional or trusted source. The newsletter authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided by or inspired by ChatGPT.