The Power of Sunrise

Sunrise at Sandon Point

Over the last few months there has been so much happening around me and in the world that can raises questions on how we can face the challenges that come our way. Members of my family have faced the joy of the birth of a new daughter only to have the devastation of a cyclone impact on their home, their business and their community. We were in Paris at the time a policeman was killed on the Champs Elysees, and then there was the awful situation in Manchester where people were killed at a concert by a suicide bomber. It would be easy to be dismayed and paralysed by all of this sadness. I was privileged to have a dinner with Tim Costello, advocate World Vision, on Wednesday night. He has been a mayor, a Baptist minister, an author, the CEO of World Vision. He has always been a leader I have admired and he has helped me navigate many difficult times in my own life. He has authored a book called "Hope". His ultimate belief in the difference an individual can make in the world is an important reminder for us all. He reminds me of the "purpose ladder" that can run beside the "career ladder". He also reminded us on the importance to all of us on the importance of belonging. Many issues arise when we lose our sense of place.To me family gives me such a strong sense of my place. 
It does not matter what we may be facing on any given day. The sun does rise in the morning. We just have to  get through the night. This is easier said than done when we feel overwhelmed and challenged by choices we may have to make. What is important is always to know what is important to us. Our own purpose. This will help guide and give us strength. This morning I was reminded that you can search far a field  and the beauty can be right where you are. I went to Bulli to support my husband in the Bulli Burn. 5 minutes from our home was the most spectacular sunrise and sun rays over the beach. I truly felt lucky and blessed. I no longer felt aggrieved about getting up at 5.30am on a Sunday morning after a tough week. Instead I was there supporting the most important man in my life and watching the sun come up. A sense of place and purpose!