When tragedy hits, we’re reminded how quickly things can change. When we’re stuck in a rut, though, we tend to see time move along much more slowly.
Last fall I visit my parents in Central New York. I always take pictures – lots of them – but this trip I was particularly drawn to a certain tree that stands outside my old school. It wasn’t until after a week that I realized just how quickly the leaves changed from their traditional drab green to vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. It was magical.

I think the reason we remain stuck is because we don’t recognize the amazing transformations that are taking place around us. It makes sense – when you’re close to something (or someone), you tend to not notice subtle changes from day to day. But, imagine if we did! The seven day transformation of that tree? Each day seemed particularly long and sometimes boring. When I study the photos and see just how much it prepared for winter in just a week it reminds that so many of life’s and work’s obstacles really are temporary. That if we take a few moments each day to just be aware of our surroundings and opportunities we may recognize great hope in the future of life and business.