#411: SPOTLIGHT: Amanda Posa
#411: Amanda Posa
December 17, 2024
A Backbeat of Community
Question for Amanda:
Does one particular travel experience come to mind (whether travel for work or vacation) that had a substantial and LASTING impact on your life?
Amanda's Response:
This past March, I had the privilege of traveling to Hawaii with one of my best friends. Together, we hiked through lush waterfalls and bamboo forests, decompressed on picturesque beaches, snorkeled at sunset alongside graceful manta rays, and witnessed humpback whales breach the glimmering seascapes. However upon returning home and reflecting on the trip, it was not these grand adventures that stood out most. The moments that lingered were the moments of human connection. I had the rare gift of spending extended time not only with my college best friend, but also with Frank Tate, one of my dearest friends from the CFC community, and his extraordinary colleague, Beverly.
One morning, we gathered on Frank's deck overlooking the ocean, enjoying fresh papaya and sipping hot coffee. Everything seemed to slow as we shared about our lives, our aspirations and goals for the next few years, the fears that challenge us, the longings we have. As I paused to put down my mug, I looked out at the horizon and knew there was nowhere else I had to jump up to be.
Another afternoon, we swayed lazily in hammocks on Bev's tree-house like porch, suspended in time as we talked about our families, laughed about the foolishness of our past, shed tears about the things and people we've lost, and rambled on about our curiosities that we may otherwise forget to lean into back home in the chaos of regular daily life.
It was in these vulnerable spaces that I was reminded of the quote, "Be where your feet are." And that afternoon as I looked up at them swinging freely through the air in the hammock, I too felt free. Free from all the worries and doubts and judgements I often carry with me. And all that mattered was connecting with the present moment, the salty air, and the people beside me.
Hawaii is often called "paradise," and I saw that to be true through the breathtaking sights and excursions, but the most unforgettable part of the trip was getting to truly go deep with three incredible souls in my life. It made me consider how sometimes it's not the what or the where that has the greatest impact. It's the who. It's the people in my life that make it that much richer. And for that, for them, for all of you, I am beyond grateful.
I suspect Amanda would love all direct responses from you. I find it incredibly encouraging when I hear from any of you after I share my thoughts. It is powerful for me. I assume many others have a similar experience. So here is Amanda's email… pip
Joe's thought…
Amanda, thank you for sharing your story with us. Reading your words reminded me that it's often the simple, everyday life experiences: witnessing the sun setting on the horizon, seeing your breath on a chilly morning, the warmth of someone close, that truly impact our lives. Your story was a wonderful testament to the joy that can be felt by sharing the same space with another human, if just for a moment, and recognizing that we all share a common bond. What an incredible start to the day. Thank you.
- Joe Bruzzese