photo credit: Philipp Klinger
“Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm, but to add color to my sunset sky.” ~ Rabindranath Tagore
The sun going down. Amongst a few clouds, the backdrop an array of colors. The sky afire with a golden glow.
Breathtaking.
In the right place. At the right time.
Have you experienced a sunset that mesmerized you? Pulled you right in and made you stop? Turned the sky into a brilliant display of color?
For me, a sunset is so connecting with a deeper part of myself, and with just how awesome and amazing our world we live in really is! The bright hues, coupled with the comforting stillness of the surrounding sky makes for an image that shines beauty on everything it touches. And there’s something very calming about the setting sun, as the day fades into night. As I soak this in, mesmerized by it’s beauty — I’m reminded of what a truly amazing world we live in.
The Sunset of Our Soul
What if…we have within us the light and breathtaking beauty of the most gorgeous sunset?
We all do! You. Me. Everyone!
There’s a sunset within the soul of each of us.
Have you listened to your heart and your soul? Really listened?
This sunset within each of us…it’s there. We just have to find it. Maybe it’s overcast in the world of you today. Maybe it has been for a while. Or maybe it’s a full-fledged storm. In either case, when our sunset within is blocked, we are not being completely authentic and true to ourselves. And we’re not living a life that is connecting with our deepest being.
What keeps it hidden?
- Doing what we’re told is the right thing to do
- Pursuit of the paycheck over the heart
- Not listening to that voice inside
- Going through the motions of life
- Telling ourselves that someday we’ll pursue our dreams (does someday ever come?)
When we allow any on this list to be the prevailing force in our life, we suppress that sunset that is within. And all of this is not to say that sometimes we might have to do things for reasons our heart does not agree. There will be unexpected storms that come into our life — and it may mean doing something that isn’t necessarily in line with what our heart speaks.
Life happens.
Still, though, it doesn’t mean we have to be locked into these choices. Even in the midst of an unexpected storm, or for that matter, a period of much cloudiness in our life — we can still search for the sunset within.
It’s there.
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” ~ Mark Twain
Take some time to really listen to your heart. Explore what matters deeply to you.
Your Sunset
We have this one life here on earth that we’re living. How are you choosing to live that life out?
Don’t wait for someday…it’s a day that may never come.
“Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So… get on your way.” ~ Dr. Seuss
What can you do, today, that will take you one step closer toward that amazing sunset within your soul? And if you’re there already, what can you do to keep that sunset shining , illuminating your life and all you do?
You are amazing — each and every one of you! And when you allow your heart-filled sunset to shine onto the world, that light and all it’s magical colors will fill the world around you with the passion you have within the depths of your soul.
Your posts are all so inspirational.
Thank you
Blessings
Jeanne
Jeanne´s last blog post..June
Last January when I was in San Diego, I went to the beach just to see the sun set over the ocean. It was overwhelmingly beautiful.….a God thing. The beach had many people doing various things but when the sun touched the horizon, everyone stopped and was hypnotized by the beauty of it all. It was as if we were all in some sort of ceremony that required our quiet respect and presence. I will never forget the moment.
You’re so right Lance. How much of our lives to we give away as if it were a cheap thing to let go of. I am attempting to be more intentional with the years I have remaining. Thanks for the reminder that we need to teacher our own sunset. This was a beautiful post. Thanks for sharing.
Lance, I couldn’t agree more. This is what I tell my kids. Pursue your dreams, and I’m so excited for them.
As for me, my amazing sunset is on the horizon, and I’m taking steps everyday to make it glow a little brighter. Even for those of us who are a little older, the sunset, isn’t about the sun going down, but it’s about seeing the sunrise tomorrow.
LisaNewton´s last blog post..The Los Angeles Metro Subway
Oh gosh. This is so refreshing in the midst of my whirlwind right now. No, I don’t want to be disappointed 20 years from now by what I didn’t do. This is a wonderful reminder to follow my heart. I’ll hold on to it!
Yum Yucky´s last blog post..Fitness Felon: Jimmy “Catfish” Adams
Ah ha! A Freudian slip! That was supposed to be treasure our own sunset! The teacher in me just slips out doesn’t it?
Perfect timing. My husband and I had, what I hope will be one of the final conversations to help me really explore my business/career goals and dreams. Today I woke up with a new clarity and vision that really makes sense! Your list of what blocks us — is spot on…I know that from experience! It’s time to rest my mind, let go of the fear and truly go for it! It’s taken me 3 years to say that…and today it feels good. Because my sun is shining…
Your writing is amazing. Life has quickly gotten very busy and hectic for me — so thank you for reminding me to seek out and see my inner daily sunset.
Stacey / Create a Balance´s last blog post..50 Ways to Pamper Yourself — Review
Hi Lance — I see clearly how much you have grown recently as your writing talent has developed along with your ability to clarify and refine the process of reflection. This post truly embodied all of that skill and progress. It was such a pleasure to read, and it also must be so validating to know that you touch a chord in so many of your readers. Good show!
Betsy Wuebker´s last blog post..FROM THE ROAD: INTO THE YUKON
Beautifully expressed — and I’m glad you threw in Mark Twain too. The caution of being more disappointed 20 yrs from now over things you didn’t do is what I call a “smack of life” (instead of fact of life). I am in awe of sunsets but also the daily cloud formations, each one unique and a mystery up there. Thank you for the inspiration and motivation, Lance. I can also personally assure you that at no time in your life will you realize the impact of this more than the sunset years of your life.
suzen´s last blog post..Marriage in the 60’s — Just a Peek!
Lance,
I think the the other thing that clouds our sunsets is the way we go through life, out of balance or not, generous or not, happy or not, peaceful or not. Not only what we pursue but how we pursue it.
Tess The Bold Life´s last blog post..Dr. Christine Northrup Freebie/Magic Monday
Even though I have seen some beautiful sunsets, especially now that I live on a Greek island, the one that stands out for me happened on an “ordinary” day. My fiancé and I like to go to our favorite beach in the late afternoon around 5:00 when the sun is not so high and the heat is more bearable. We take our books and bag and totally chill out. It’s the time of day where most sun-worshippers and tourists have gone back to their rooms, and the beach opens itself to all of us “natives.” Families show up with kids, lovers walk along the beach, it’s a beautiful time of day. Last summer my fiancé and I had been through an unusually tough week and really felt the call of the sea. When we arrived, I couldn’t even bring myself to read. I just sat and watched and soaked in the sea, sand and the sun as it began lowering on the horizon.
One of our favorite things about these late-afternoon trips is that we do like to stay until the sun goes down. That night, watching the sunset in total serenity, with no demands on me except to just be, I felt at home and at one with myself and my life and with something far beyond me. I will never forget it.
Chania Girl´s last blog post..Footsteps in the Dark
This post made me very happy! We ARE all amazing and it’s so important to remember that. Bad things happen sometimes and sometimes we feel bad about ourselves, but, deep down, we are all amazing beings with the beauty of sunsets within us. Thanks for reminding us all of that!
Positively Present´s last blog post..trust me: to be happy you need to trust
Lance,
It’s been such a long time since I watched a beautiful sunset. I’ve always been a sunrise kind of person, and sunsets make me feel a little sad. I suppose when I’m sad deep within, that’s my soul’s sunset, and I could learn to appreciate all the various hues and shades of that feeling, which means I’m alive. I had to think a while to understand this post — you’re a deep thinker.
Daphne @ Joyful Days´s last blog post..Book Review: Not of My Making
What a gorgeous analogy!
This is pure poetry, Lance. I think this is the most beautifully worded post I’ve read of yours. Other posts have had equally beautiful ideas, but this one is written in beautiful language as well.
Dot´s last blog post..Happy Birthday to Us
Sunsets bring an inner stillness to me; maybe it’s the slow movement as the sun gently goes down. It’s interesting that the same sun that sets before me is rising before someone else. It’s a simultaneous end and beginning in one motion.
Thanks for the thoughtful post. I enjoyed where it led me to think.
Laurie | Express Yourself to Success´s last blog post..What are we going to do?
Hello Lance!
This is an amazing article, so inspirational and so very true! Life is truly amazing and the sunset in our soul yearns to be free each and every day. We CAN live like this every day! Thanks again for this well written article, you’ve made a difference in my heart this day.
Keith´s last blog post..Mental House Cleaning
Hi Lance
It is wonderful when we can finally release ourselves from at least some of the ties of the world and move to a space where we can really grow and marvel at our creations. It seems we need to look to nature to find that source of strength — nature is not limited by the world we know and experience.
Juliet
Juliet´s last blog post..Coping With Praise
I always thought of sunset as something not so good — figuratively, that is …but you mad eit beautiful. I LOVE the section where you talk about what keeps the sunset hidden .…so true .… catering to something other than our genuine self truly obscures all the colors we are capable of .…
We have to let ourselves shine — at the right times …
Lovely morning read!
Maya´s last blog post..Are you rich but unhappy? Or poor and happy Or something else?
You GO Lance!!! I love this. This is my whole philosophy for living. Any tough decisions, I imagine myself over a hundred years old and looking back. I ask myself would regret that I DID it? Or would I regret that DIDN’T do it? I’ve not yet had one regret that I DID it. Not one. But boy it sure puts things in perspective. We are going to die..and that’s another whole topic that I won’t go into here. But my point being: This is the time to LIVE! Really really LIVE. Face our fears, walk toward them, take those risks, make bold decisions, take courageous action, Love everyone and everything, ask what you don’t dare ask, do what you don’t dare do, approach EVERY SINGLE day as if it we a ONE OF day, as if you’d never known a previous day and will never know another after. Ditch all the “shoulds” and “supposed to(s)” lurking in the closet, do whatever is need to break free of the mundane, the spirit deadening, soul destroying habits.….and LIVE. Walk to the edge and jump, over and over. Life will be as you’ve never known it.
Well, that is my burst of unbridled joy this morning!! You ALWAYS inspire me! Thank you my dear friend. Hugs, Robin
Robin Easton´s last blog post..Are You Still in Survival Mode?
I live in California about 5 miles from the beach and when I was in graduated school I used to see the sunset over the pacific ocean every day on the way home from school. Truly one of the most amazing sights of nature. I love the quotes on this post and the analogy.
Srinivas Rao´s last blog post..The Comparative and Competitive Disadvantage
If you don’t appreciate your sunset, then how can you appreciate your life? I love sunsets. They are a smack dab in your face way of nature saying, “CHECK ME OUT! AREN’T I JUST FABULOUS!?”
Beautiful, Lance.
“Don’t wait for someday” — this is so, so important and so many of us are guilty of doing that.
Vered — MomGrind´s last blog post..10 Ways To Hate Yourself As A Woman
I love Dr. Seuss.
Sagan´s last blog post..Guest Post: The Transformation to a Warped Body Image
Excellent post and smart use of imagery and quotes to drive home the lesson!
Mark´s last blog post..Un-Boxing Spirituality
Hi Lance,
Last October, my husband and I went to Honolulu for our vacation. It was a dream come true for the two of us. Each morning and evening, we were greeted with the most amazing sunrise and sunset. It just took our breath away each time. One of the things that we loved about being in Hawaii, was the lifestyle. People were so friendly and laid back. It felt like heaven to be surrounded in such beauty. In so many ways, I rediscovered myself on that trip and ever since then, I have never felt more alive.
We each have so much potential and beauty within us. Unfortunately, the chores of daily living cloud us from seeing that. Your post was a beautiful reminder of that lesson and of my trip to paradise. Thank you, my friend. You rock!
Nadia — Happy Lotus´s last blog post..Listening to My Intuition
This post is your best ever!
I feel it speak to my heart of hearts!
Thank You Lance!
When I was growing up we lived on a hill in the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon with the most amazing view from our living room of the sunset every night. I miss that view more than anything else about the house– arn’t sunsets amazing, something about them just captures me. I think it is the witnessing of the creating of that beauty right before our eyes, as the sun goes down the amazing colors show themselves reflecting of the clouds~ something magic about natures show and we get to be fortunate enough to see it, however fleeting. No two sunsets are the same, yet they are all so incredibly beautiful in their own way. No matter what was going on in my life at the time, I found peace just sitting there watching the colors change.
Thank you for the wonderful reminder to live our dreams now. You may say, tomorrow, tomorrow may turn into next week, next week may turn into next year, and before we know it we may find ourselves saying the dreaded ‘I should have’ or ‘I wish I would have’.
Hi Lance .. I’m almost in the sunset of my life and 20 years on I definitely will be with the sun setting …
I know what I want to do and the direction I want to go .. which I’m working towards, however my mother is in her dying rays and she needs me for the rest of that life — however long that might be.
Years ago I sat on a beach with my best friend, sadly she died a few years ago, but we were on the west coast of Ireland and the sun went down as late as 11.30 pm .. it was just fantastic .. peaceful, lapping waves, long sunny days (makes a difference), just friends together .. sunsets are always inspiring ..
Thanks Lance — lovely words
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters
Hilary´s last blog post..What was red, is now blue .. but actually is green?
Hey Lance,
I think I’m tuning in to my own sunset more and more. I used to be a real “doer” (and still have my days) but I’ve learnt to be more present, not work so hard, listen more and let go. I feel my greatest peace when I’m quiet and usually in nature.
I’ve seen many awe-inspiring sunsets. My partner is especially drawn to them. He’s always pointing out the colours in the sky, which is always a good reminder for me to stop and take notice. Great post Lance. Thank you.
Sami — Life, Laughs & Lemmings´s last blog post..Choir of Hard Knocks
Thank you for honoring us (and you!) with this beautiful post. What a great image, that will stay with me throughout the evening… maybe I’ll even go hunt down the sunset tonight (either internally or in the darkening sky!).
Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s last blog post..Don’t Be Afraid To See
Lance, your writing is fabulous! It really shows the immense growth you’ve experienced these past few months, the steps you’re taking.
Thank you for encouraging us in such a heartfelt way to pursue our own inner truths and for adding your enthusiastic motivation to actually take action, to take the steps we need to do in order to live “a life that is connecting with our deepest being.” For unless we do, we aren’t REALLY living.
Julie´s last blog post..On That Note
I hope people get this message! Great! First I love that stunning photo! Second your message is so valuable! It took cancer to wake me up but I strive daily to remember how fragile life is and how every single tiny thing in it is important!
Lisa’s Chaos´s last blog post..Niagara Falls in the daylight
as always, wonderfully uplifting post. I have so often been mesmerized by the sunset and never thought about a sunset of my soul. What a wonderful metaphor to ponder…
brandi´s last blog post..mission monday:: find joy
Life does happen and that’s a great Mark Twain quote.
I like your sunset metaphor and it helps illuminate what’s important. What’s really important. The phrase that keeps coming to mind for me is, give your best where you have your best to give.
J.D. Meier´s last blog post..Influencer — The Power to Change Anything
Hi Lance
Beatifully written. I think of sunset as a time to exhale and a time for reflection. Hopefully, if I did right. I will have a nice reflection.
Live everyday to the fullest, no time to waste.
Thanks for the inspiration.
Giovanna Garcia
Imperfect Action is better than No Action
Giovanna Garcia´s last blog post..Teenage boy beat Kobe Bryant in 4 minutes.
You are so inspiring me to be the best Carla I can.
To focus wholly on heart over paycheck and have faith it will all workout.
Miz´s last blog post..Viewer Mail: the buffet edition (giveaway post).
@Jeanne — Thank you Jeanne!
@Laurie — There really is something about a sunset over a body of water that really makes it magnificent. I had a similar experience on a recent visit to the ocean, as well. And everyone was drawn in by the beauty of this moment. Our own sunset is something very much worth treasuring — it’s uniquely ours… Thank you Laurie.
@LisaNewton — Hi Lisa. After all, if we’re not going after our dreams, we’re letting clouds of life overtake our sunset. And I love that — a sunset isn’t just about the sun going down, it’s also about the sun rising again tomorrow — wonderful!
@YumYucky — Hi Josie. The time is now — it’s all we really have for sure.
@Laurie — Yes, I guess the teacher in you just slips right out!!
@Stacey Shipman — Stacey, I’m really excited for you! Finding that clarity can be powerfully affirming . And I’m looking forward to where this takes you, my friend. I know that through your husband, you have a strong support system beside you — and that’s an important thing when challenging yourself in new ways. You most certainly are shining your light in this world…
@Stacey / Create A Balance — Hi Stacey. Thank you! And the way you’ve said this — it’s so calming. Reading your words, I’m reminded that that “inner daily sunset” can be a place to retreat to at the end of the day, soaking it all in — in a peaceful and comforting way. Thanks so much for this comment, Stacey — it really adds so much to this idea of the sunset within…
@Betsy — Hi Betsy. Thanks so much for your wonderful comment! It is an honor to be able to write and share these words here.
@Suzen — Hi Suzen. That Mark Twain quote is really so great isn’t it! The cloud formations really add so much to the “real” sunsets. And much like that, the cloud formations in our own life — the challenges and opportunities we face daily — all add to the sunset within. And Suzen, thank you for reminding us all — that the time is NOW. It is…
@Tess — Hi Tess. Oh, this is really great stuff! Yes, it’s not just what we’re pursuing, also how we’re going after that. There is so much to this, and how it make our own sunset shine (or not).
@Chania Girl — You bring up another great point — and that being that it can be “ordinary” that is truly extraordinary. And your real sunset story points this out so well, Chania Girl. What a wonderful story to share here. And I believe that’s not unlike us and our internal “sunsets”. Sure, the grand days we have do make our sunset shine brightly, but it’s the daily little things we do that truly make it shine always. It’s in the ordinary of life, and how we act in all those moments, that show the true sunset of our soul. Not at all unlike the real and ordinary sunset that holds much meaning for you…
@Positively Present — Hi Dani. Yes, we’re all amazing individuals, with a shining light coming from within. We just have to let that light out. Keep shining your amazing light Dani…
@Daphne — Hi Daphne. I think we could subsitute between sunsets and sunrises here. They are both very beautiful and amazing. I find this interesting, that you see sadness in a sunset. And the more I think about it (you are really making me think today!), I wonder if part of that is because of the actual setting of the sun. That it is going down — and if it might feel a bit like that internally too — like a sunset within is like a sun that is slowly fading away. It’s an angle I hadn’t really thought about. And I can see sadness in this…unless I look at it slightly differently. Maybe if we viewed a sunset as the beautiful colors of our life shining out into the world. And the actual setting of our sunset as point of giving ourself the rest and nourishment we need before the coming sunrise again of our “soul light” — as we start fresh and ready to shine once again from the depths of our soul, and out…
@Mama Zen — Hi Kelli. Thanks much!
@Dot — Thanks you, Dot. I appreciate your words very much!
@Laurie | Express Yourself — Hi Laurie. An inner stillness, I like that! And I agree that it’s very peaceful watching the setting sun. And I think that’s something we can get from our own internal sunset as well. When we’re truly in alignment with ourselves, there is a peace that comes from feeling so connected to our soul. The sunset within. And the idea of what’s a sunset to one is a sunrise to another — wonderful thought — all part of the cycle of our life…
@Keith — Hi Keith. The idea of setting the sunset in our soul free — what an amazing thought! And that leads me to think about how when we can find that sweet spot that is our true sunset, what we then shine out onto the world is something pretty wonderful!
@Juliet — Hi Juliet. This is wonderful! The pull of our daily lives and everything in it, this can cloud our sunset. Some clouds are okay, but too many and we can no longer see that sunset of ours. That’s where taking time for ourselves is so important — to truly see that which is within and wants to shine. Nature IS a powerful place to look for this, yes. It’s not tied down by what the world says, it just is. And when we get to that point where we are just being, this is place where we can really discover that sunset within.
@Maya — Hi Maya. Yes, well — I’ve experienced many of these “things” that lead to the hiding of our sunset. So…I guess I speak from experience! And the thing is, as I’ve grown along the way — I’ve really come to believe that we all have that light within us — but it’s not a cookie-cutter light, it’s a light that is unique to just us. And discovering that light can be so empowering, as we shine our sunset out to the world…
@Robin Easton — Robin, this is so wonderful! You are filled with such life, and you always shine your light out. I know that’s because you’re deeply connected to the source of that light, from a spot within you that has really spoken volumes to you. Your sunset from your soul is beautiful and filled with such energy and love! So, thank you, my friend, for sharing this “joy” here today! Your spirit is contagious!!
@Srinivas — Seeing the sunset over the ocean every day had to be a special experience! And that’s just like our own soul can shine if we allow ourselve to truly connect with it…
@Amy Jewell — Hi Amy. Wow, that’s wonderful! We do have to appreciate what’s witin us to really and fully appreciate the life we have. Awesome thoughts!
@Vered — Thank you Vered. And that idea of someday…it’s a day that rarely comes…
@Sagan — Dr. Seuss rocks, doesn’t he!
@Mark — Hi Mark. Thanks much!
Hi Lance,
This was really beautiful, from the post itself to the choice of photo and quotes.
I can see hills from all of my windows and my husband and I always make time to simply watch them. This is all we have, life, happening now. If we can’t take the time to watch something as glorious as a sunset, then what else are we missing. The more we resonate with the beauty inside our own souls, the more we can resonate with the beauty all around us. Nature does its best to make us sit up and pay attention, to learn what we need to do.
Thank you!
janice´s last blog post..Skin Deep
@Nadia — Hi Nadia. This sounds like your trip to Hawaii was really a moving experience. How great that this really was more than just a “getaway”, and that it led you through a rediscovery process. Hawaii is on my list of places to visit, and now I’m even more convinced I have to visit! Daily living — yes, it can get in the way sometimes of us really seeing the light we have within. Yet, if we can somehow take a little time for ourselves each day, to focus on what truly matters — these clouds can become a little fewer and less ominous. Nadia, thank you for sharing this experience here today, it adds so much to the conversation.
@Diane — Hi Diane, and THANK YOU!!!
@Angie — Hi Angie. Sunsets really are an amazing gift, and something we can continue to enjoy over and over, no matter where we are. Although there sure is something about a sunset over the water that is pretty magnificent. The creation of beauty right before our eyes — Angie, that is such a sweet thought. We do all these things in our lives to add extra spark, or provide awe in some new way — and oftentimes the best of the best is already provided by nature itself…like the beauty of a sunset on a warm summer evening. And the idea of “tomorrow”, which leads to next week or next year — yes — NOW is the time…tomorrow may never come…
@Hilary — Hi Hilary. And the sunset of our lives…in this sense…the closer we approach the end — we still have within us these magnificent colors to shine out into the world for all to see! And spending time with your mother, Hilary, that makes a very bright light in this world — and one with a compassionate heart. Your visit to the coast of Ireland sounds so peaceful. I’m glad that’s a memory you continue to hold onto.
@Sami — Hey Sami! There’s a time for doing and there’s a time for being… So, it’s probably all good that you have your days of being a “doer”. And you bring up a good point about being present and listening. This is so important, that we take the time to really connect with ourselves. It’s there that we begin to really uncover the light we have within. And your partner’s onto something, Sami. I find that just watching a real sunset helps me really “be” more…and that’s a good place for me to visit.
@Megan — Hi Megan. Thank you for visiting today. And I love that thought, of going out and finding that sunset…real or internal. And sometimes they go together too! I hope last night was a moment for you to really enjoy the beauty of a sunset (or two)…
@Julie — Hi Julie. Thank you!!! You know, part of this whole evolving process of writing is that I learn from those I read…and that most definitely includes you, my friend. So, this idea of REALLY living…it is all about finding what it is that’s important to us. And that comes from connecting with our inner being. Julie, thank you, as always, for your insight.
@Lisa’s Chaos — Hi Lisa. I love the photo too — it’s a gorgeous sunset! And to your point, yes — it does sometimes take a wake-up call to really realize the life we’re living is NOW. In that vein, a wake-up call really can be life-changing. And I’m glad this has brought you to where you are today. Thanks so much for sharing that Lisa.
@Brandi — Hey Brandi! The real sunsets, the ones produced by nature — they are a thing of beauty! And just like each one of us are — we just have to let our light shine! You do…
@J.D. — Hi J.D. The Mark Twain quote is really such a great reminder that living is NOW. Illuminating what’s important — to us individually — yes, that’s it! And when we do, there is so much truth in that light. We all have our own strengths and our own inner desires. Bringing these together, we really can all give our best!
@Giovanna — Hi Giovanna. Thank you! What a wonderful thought…a sunset as a time to exhale and reflect. The real ones do this for me, the sunsets up in the sky. And when I take the time to really listen to “me”, that sunset within appears too. And the time for reflection just makes it more and more true to the light I have within.
@Miz — Hi Carla. The draw of the paycheck can lure us away from our true selves. Yet, when we do — where has that really gotten us? Money isn’t going to buy happiness. And that’s not to say that we don’t need money — it is surely something that helps us live our lives. Still, making this our master will not bring any really happiness or joy in our lives. Finding that within that truly matters…that will. Bringing it all together, where our hearts sings and we are rewarded for that — a great place to get to… Carla, thanks for this thought. I’ve pretty much avoided talking about money in this post, and yet that’s a very important part of living — having the funds to live our life too. So your point is very well recieved, and worth much consideration in this journey to continue to let our light shine. Thank YOU!
@Janice — Hi Janice. Thank you! Life, happening now — so well said! This is all we have for sure. There are no guarantees on the future. And your thought of how when we resonate with our internal beauty, we also will resonate more with the beauty all around us — Janice, this thought is so magnificent! The more we connect with ourselves, the more we really “see” the beauty all around us, every day!
Lance:
Great post!! In a literal sense, I used to live in an apartment where the kitchen faced west. I enjoyed the simple pleasure of cooking dinner every night as I watched the sunset. For me those were magical moments. I have since moved from that place and wish that I could enjoy the sunset in the same way. Your post reminds me about the importance of the metaphoric sunsent, the internal sunset — a life where we are following our purpose and following our heart. In this situation we can keep the sun with us whatever situation we face.
Tim´s last blog post..DIY Learning
Boy, that Mark Twain guy, he was a marvel in so many ways. And so are YOU! What an uplifting post. Your articles are always so worth waiting for, Lance.
And a perfect book to segue into this post would be Tess Marshall’s “Flying By The Of My Soul.” I guess we could call her “Flying By The Seat Of Her Sunset Soul.” Have you read her book? I just did and it is awesome, awesome, awesome. I’ll be reviewing it on my site sometime in the next couple of months.
Cheers!!
Jannie Funster´s last blog post..Gravatar update
And holy cow. It finally happened!!!! I’m TOP TALKER. Boy, what a day for me. Whee-hoo.
Jannie Funster´s last blog post..Gravatar update
Lance, love this post. The sunset of our soul…great analogy. I am sensing a sunset in mine. It has taken some time to get here…but it’s been worth the wait (just like a good sunset).
Caroline´s last blog post..Wow…I said that?
Hi Lance!
What I love about you is that you are never static. You just get better all the time. I think the sunset in us is that thing that the world is always trying to change about us. It’s who we really are. We have to shine on and be ourselves, no matter what the culture tries to demand.
For me, the best sunsets go with the ocean. I love them on Coronado Island, CA. As a child, I read all the time and remember characters traveling great distances to breathe the sea air. For me, it is incredibly healing and coupled with a great sunset, it can get me through an entire year!
Audra Krell´s last blog post..Father’s Day Is Coming!
Lance, this was excellent!! Inspiring and uplifting!!
I believe I’m there, but I often have to remind myself that there is joy even in the darkness. In learning this my dark moments never last very long.
You have made my heart smile yet again my friend!
Tabitha@ichoosebliss.net´s last blog post..Breathing Easier & Wishcasting Wednesday
That title totally sounds like a summertime blockerbuster movie or huge book deal!
“The Sunset of Our Soul” Go Lance!
Yum Yucky´s last blog post..Greedy Island Alert! Bacon Wrapped Hot Dog
Beautiful post! You’ve obviously touched many with your words. Add another one to the list. Many thanks. Best, Chris
Chris´s last blog post..On Turning 43
Hi Lance: I’ve never thought of myself as a sunset before, but I think it’s a fabulous idea. In fact, the sun should be setting just about now and I have a view from my window, so off I go to watch the sunset …
Marelisa´s last blog post..12 Ways to Boost Your Brain Power
@Tim — Hi Tim. Thanks for stopping over here! Sounds like a great view that you had! Sunsets are something I don’t think I’ll ever tire of seeing. Having the sun with us (metaphorically speaking) through all the situations we face — I like that!
@Jannie — Hey Jannie! Mark Twain, yep — that guy had things figured out! And Jannie…aww, thank you. Do you know, you’re way too nice to me. I’m feeling all sorts of good right now. I think I need to listen to some music…and I think I know just what I want! And Tess’ book — yes, I have read it. It’s excellent — I read it a couple of months back. She speaks so honestly and openly in there — a wonderful read! And I like your “modified” title!
@Jannie — Hey, didn’t I just “talk” to you??? It’s great to see you here again! And…congratulations!!
@Caroline — Hi Caroline. Good for you, seeing that sunset within shining through. I know it’s there…I see it everytime I read your words.
@Audra — Hey Audra! Thank you (and you’re too nice to me too!). That’s such an important thing your bringing up. The world does try to change us, mold us, etc. And it can be easy to fall into that trap — I’ve been there — going after things for the wrong reasons. But when we really listen to “us” the truth and light shine through. And yes, there’s definitely something about the ocean and sunsets that make them magical. In fact, I had a similar experience recently when we traveled to the ocean — a real moment of clarity and calm as I looked on at a real sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Audra, thank you for this today, for being here, and for sharing your wisdom with us all.
@Tabitha — Hi Tabitha. Thank you! Well, that’s another great point. There will be dark moments for all of us — moment where the setting sun has indeed set, and darkness has taken over. And in those moments, if we can remember the coming sunrise — that the light within us WILL shine again — this will make these moments of darkness fleeting. Tabitha, thank you for this thought today.
@Yum Yucky — Hey Josie! Have you dried out yet?? Okay, so now I just have to find me that agent or producer! I love your imagination Josie — this is great!!
@Chris — Hi Chris. Thank you. It’s great to have you here, and what you’re saying really does mean a lot to me. Thank you, very much, for this.
@Marelisa — Hi Mare. We can shine our light from within, much like a sunset does out onto the world — in such wonderful ways! Enjoy the view Mare…and continue to share your light with all you touch…
This is wonderful stuff and thanks for visiting our blog.
Dorothy from grammology
grammology.com
Dorothy Stahlnecker´s last blog post..A new book for help on the inner self
Hey Lance!
What a beautiful post. It really spoke to me. These days my sunset feels cloudy with very little colors. This too shall pass. I’m over thinking things. It’s silly to me because I try to have things all figured out before I try. It’s so easy to talk yourself out of things by trying to guess how things will turn out. Be still! Listen to your heart! Try!
Thanks for this post Lance! I love sunsets!
Need to find mine.…
Natalia Burleson´s last blog post..Another Hodge Podge!
Great perspective! Thanks Lance.
“In the right place. At the right time.” Brings to mind how much my life has changed through acceptance of.… well, pretty much everything. Letting each and every moment and experience take me to where I’m supposed to be and not just where I’ve ended up.
From the book, The Christmas Sweater by Glenn Beck
“I know that things have been hard since Dad died. But it’s been hard for both of us. At some point you have to realize that everything happens for a reason. It is up to you to find that reason, learn from it, and let it take you to the place you’re supposed to be—not just where you have ended up.” “…you can either complain about how hard your life is, or you can realize that only you are responsible for it. You get to choose: Am I going to be happy or miserable? And nothing—not a sweater, and certainly not a bike—will ever change that.”
I like the vision of myself as a sunset. The clouds and the sun (all emotions) create the perfect moment if I allow it to and accept it for what it is.
Jared´s last blog post..Update 06−10−09
Hi Lance, Just wanted to say thanks for posting the thought provoking quote by Tagore. It is awesome to see “clouds” (things, people, events, etc.) in a positive light, that we had previously labeled as negative or ordinary.
Diane C.´s last blog post..Cute Ground Squirrels
Lance,
Very true indeed. I know all about it, cause I’m on my way. I am doing things I love doing and slowly trying to turn my life around a bit so that even work is fun. My children’s book is proceeding quite well, my creative workshops at work as well and although my charity is slow in the making, I am confident about it. Thanks for that reminder.
M
Mindful Mimi´s last blog post..Love the questions
Lance,
I’m back in the online world! And it shouldn’t come as a surprise to me, but your post pertains exactly to the soul searching that I’ve been doing the past couple of months. My sunset is very overcast right now, and you’re right … it’s because I’m not being true to the “me” inside. I’m letting my dreams go away until “someday” but I’ve been so depressed because now I don’t know when that someday will come.
Thanks for your blog.
Bri
Bri´s last blog post..Overdue Update
@Dorothy — Thanks for stopping by!
@Natalia — Hi Natalia. “This too shall pass.” — that’s a good thing to remember, because it will pass. And your “clouds” may seem like they have little color, but I say the color is there — it’s just the clouds are covering it up a bit. And I know exactly what you’re saying about talking yourself out of things — I’ve done this way more than I care to admit. Natalia, thanks for being here today, and I know your “sunset” is out there…
@Jared — Hi Jared. I like that look at this, the idea of acceptance of everything. When we quit fighting with ourselves, accept where we’re at — and move on — this is a much more peaceful way of life. And this really ties so well to the part of the book you shared. And that message is so strong for me — the “things” we have are not going to change us fundamentally. Only we can decide, deep down, how we weill embrace life. Thanks for sharing this Jared.
@Diane C. — Hi Diane. Yes, that quote really does get you thinking about the “clouds” in your life. Good stuff to think about! If we look at this with a postive spin — that sure does make life better doesn’t it! Thanks much for that thought Diane!
@Mimi — Hi Mimi. Thanks for sharing this. You are letting that “sunset” within you shine, in so many wonderful ways! Keep believing in all that which your heart speaks, you are doing some amazing works, all of which you should be very proud of what you’ve already accomplished!
@Bri — Hi Bri. Welcome back, it’s really great to see you here again! Sometimes we’ll have a few more “clouds” in our life, and that can make it hard for the sun, for that light within each of us, to fully shine. And you know what…that someday can be today. Even if it’s baby steps, even if it’s just a few minutes to yourself to really listen to “you” — someday can be today. And you may think your “sunset” is overcast…but I know the sun is at least peeking through — because having you here has brightened my day — and that’s because of the light you shine…
Hi Lance. This is such a beautiful post.
We have some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen right here in our neighborhood. Our back yard opens up to a field and we can see a long distance to the horizon where the sun sheds is beautiful colors all across the sky. Whenever I notice the sunset out the window or when my husband mentions it I always pause no matter how busy I am to gaze at its beauty. We usually hold each other as we gaze. I think it would be such a waste to not pause for it so I make it a rule to always do so.
Your post makes me think about how rare it is that we do this with ourselves — that we look within to notice our own beauty and what we have to share with the world. We get so busy or caught up in the motions (or we let any of the other excuses take over that you mentioned) that we don’t even realize that we have beauty to offer. So it remains hidden behind the clouds, unnoticed by us and those around us. My take away is this: to always take time to pause and reflect on the beauty that lies within and how I can let it shine for God’s glory. After all He put it there for a reason.
Jennifer´s last blog post..Who Do You Want to Be?
Your role in the soul journey is profound. Readers of this post are reminded that regardless what happens, we need to trust ourselves. If we place trust in anything that changes, the trust will be betrayed whether we foresee it or not. This raises issues of self-trust. Every human being is learning to trust in his or her outward abilities differently. This is part of the soul journey.
Liara Covert´s last blog post..13 Ways to open the memory wider
Maybe it’s overcast in the world of you today. What a great line. I love it.
A couple years ago I had the opportunity to drive from NC to Alberta. Every evening the sunset was different and against a new terrain. Beautiful.
I love sunsets because they demonstrate that endings can be as beautiful as beginnings, and that every end is the beginning of something new. For the world is full of endings and beginnings and changes, and the sky would be less marvelous if it remained the same.
Elizabeth Barrette´s last blog post..Three Questions: The Era of Cheap Oil Is Over
I guess the question of what I can do to get closer to the amazing sunset in my soul…is slow down. I am so happy with life these days that I am not slowing down to notice some of the simple blessings of life.
Even though I am outside a great deal with my hands in the dirt…I rarely just sit in silence.
Pretty simple I know. I will get on this one right away.
Beautiful post as always Lance.
Cricket´s last blog post..The Fading Daisy
@Jennifer — Hi Jennifer. Thank you! Realizing, or appreciating, what we have — both right in front of us, and right within us — what insight into the beauty of it all. And it really sounds like you and your husband take in the real sunsets — letting the light that shines from above really enter into you. What a great moment to share together! And that’s it exactly — this light that we have within, it’s there, but not always found because we’re too caught up in our daily lives to take the time to really see that light. Jennifer, thank you for this — it’s exactly the message I wanted to share, and you’ve said it so, so well.
@Liara — Hi Liara. Trust. We have “it” within us — that which makes us unique and who we are. Do we trust, though, what that within is saying? Very much a part of our soul-journey, and getting to that point of believing in ourselves. Thank you, Liara, for your continued insight.
@Valerie — Hi Valerie. Overcast. We all have days like this. And that doesn’t mean our internal light won’t shine again. Maybe it’s not quite as bright on some days. It’s still there, though… And what a wonderful way to enjoy the real sunsets — in new locales and with all the different backdrops that provided!
@Elizabeth — Hi Elizabeth. Oh, that’s wonderful way to look at sunsets, at the beauty that comes with endings. And that really, in this circle of life we’re on, one ending is the beginning of something new — a new sunrise, per se. I love this, thank you!
@Cricket — Hi Tammy. I think there’s much to be said for slowing down. That’s when we can really see that light within shine. I know I’m guilty, too, of not doing this enough. When I do, though, and really take the time to look for it, that light is there, and speaks volumes. Thanks much for being here Tammy…
Hi Lance. I loved this analogy! And… I love sunsets. And I loved this post — so poetic. You’re right, there IS something comforting about sunsets. Like we’re all being nestled together — safe. This bit from Mark Twain… “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” is right on. I’ve never considered it from this perspective.
Davina´s last blog post..Heads Up — Beware of Crows!
Hi Lance,
What you wrote reminded me of when I first moved to Alaska and saw a sunset that make the mountains look purple, just like the song.
Thank you so much for the wonderful affirmations. Each and everyone of us is an amazing individual, aren’t we? We just need to look a little deeper within to find our own beauty.
Barbara Swafford´s last blog post..The Squeaky Wheel Gets The Grease
Hi Lance, This is the first time I have visited your site. This post is really beautiful, as well as the gorgeous sunset photo you posted! I think your analogy about each of us having a sunset inside us is dead-on and I love how you juxtaposed that to having cloudy days or storms inside us. Nature is the portal to God, or the source, and speaking in terms of having that nature inside us really strikes a chord. I think if everyone strived to connect with the feeling of a gorgeous sunset inside them, the world would be a much more joyful place! Thank you for this great post!
@Davina — Hi Davina. In a sunset (especially without any looming storms), there is very much a feeling of safety and calm…much like our lives, when we see that light within us. While this light can also bring about excitement — I do think that it does usually also provide a level of calmness too. Here’s to doing what speaks to us!
@Barbara — Hi Barbara. A sunset against the backdrop of the Alaskan mountains has to be something to behold! What beauty! Just like each of us, yes, we are like that when we find that true light within. Thanks so much for this Barbara!
@Jodi — Hi Jodi. I’m glad you’re here, thanks for stopping by! You bring up a wonderful point — the more people discover their own sunset within, the more joy this world will have. And that’s because as we find that true sunset, that true light within us — we are more connected with our unique calling and gifts…and that is very much something to be joyful about!
I must say, you always choose such wonderful photographs.
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