Freedom to Reinvent – The Man with the Violin
Freedom is the Oxygen of the Soul
– Moshe Dayan
Sadly, events in recent news make us realize how fragile life is and with that, the importance of making the most out of our lives and living life to the fullest. Don’t wait to do the things you dream about. Try to consider what your small or big Reinventions could be as you read my latest blog post.
Reinvention is our Soul Food. It lifts our spirit, rekindles our fire, and ignites our passion.There are ways to transform parts of our life that impact all the moving pieces and when we’re open to the challenge. It can truly shift the dynamic of our entire environment. We have the freedom to make these changes and Reinvent to our heart’s desire. Wouldn’t you like to take advantage of something that’s just at your fingertips?
I’ve often said that a great Reinvention can start with simply fulfilling a little desire - something we’ve been yearning to do but never got around to. Having that extra hobby or passion in which to engage lifts our spirit and nurtures our soul.
I met a gentleman who embodies that story and as I started talking to him, the way he lit up when he shared his story with me, said it all.
While traveling on a business trip a few years ago, I met a gentleman who embodies these values. As I started talking to him, the way he lit up when he shared his story with me, said it all.
A mutual friend introduced us at the gate, prior to boarding the plane. I knew he was heading to the same conference I was and I knew the business he was in. He was carrying a rectangular case onto the plane and heading to the INTL Licensing Show. I was curious what goodies he was carrying in the case with him for the conference. When he told me it was his violin and he “wouldn't go anywhere without it” I was intrigued.
Being the shy person I am… I drilled him with questions for the next 45 minutes on the short flight. He fit the perfect profile of my Reinvention stories. He had never played in his life, had always dreamed of it, went out and just bought a violin. He went on YouTube to find video tutorials to start learning how to play and now indulges himself in playing Debussy, Chopin, Tchaikovsky, anytime and anywhere he pleases.
It blew me away as this is the classic example I so often share about how one can nurture their soul and tickle their fantasies by just doing what he did. He’d never played before, was intrigued by the notion, and just made it happen for himself.
Across the street from the office he’ll enjoy the park or outdoor space when he can fit it in. While traveling, the hotel will often provide an empty meeting space or ballroom so he won’t disturb the neighbors. No excuses, no financial barriers, and no limitations in creating the time and place to practice and enjoy playing his violin.
Whether big bold life changes or adding a little “seasoning” to flavor your life, we could all take a lesson from someone who just did it.
What’s stopping you from doing something that bold?