Cathy’s Travel Lessons
Travel Lessons Learned
I have recently been thinking about some life lessons learned through travel. I
want to share a few of these lessons in hopes that someone might find within
them a bit of inspiration. I spent some time in Peru and the trip was filled with
many life lessons.
The first of many lessons came at Lake Titicaca. The Uros people are an
indigenous group who have lived on the lake for many centuries. They live on
man-made islands scattered across the lake. The islands are made of totora reeds
which are a water plant that grows naturally and abundantly at the lake.
The islands need to be rebuilt constantly as the reeds decompose quickly. This
takes daily diligence and focus. I think this is a reminder that the day-to-day
environment in which we exist takes a toll on us just as it does these islands.
External factors impact the state of our hearts and minds. We need to be
continually rebuilding ourselves internally to maintain our health and strength.
This requires us to be fully present in our lives and to maintain a willingness to
continually evolve and grow.
The islands move around the lake depending upon the wind and currents. The
Uros people accept that they cannot control the external factors that impact their
islands. This continual movement is a natural part of their existence, and they
accept this. They seem to view it as part of their adventurous lives. Imagine living
on an island home where you may have a different location and view from one
day to the next. No time to be bored at home-what fun to look forward to new
scenery-new perspective from one day to the next. Much to be learned by
accepting that which cannot be changed and using it to fuel a sense of adventure
and creativity. Life is full of winds and currents that can blow us off course. The
sooner we accept this as a fact of life, the more likely that we are to remain
flexible and “roll with the punches”. When we accept this reality, it allows us to
bounce back quickly and to new heights in our life’s journey.
The Uros people are resourceful. They use the totora reeds not just for the
foundation of their island but also to build boats, mats, baskets, and their
individual homes. This prompts the question, do we fully utilize all the resources
around us in as many ways as possible? For instance, do we view our
relationships as foundational for our personal lives AND also leverage these
relationships to help us to build our businesses? Do we use our gift and talents in
a variety of ways-sharing what we were given to build long lasting legacies in
different areas of life? Both/And versus Either/Or thinking can be very impactful.
The islands are anchored but can be moved quite easily. Sometimes by design
and sometimes because of unforeseen external factors. If people on an island
have a dispute with another island, they can pull up anchor and move to a new
location so they can interact with new neighbors. This ensures that they are
continually surrounded by people who they enjoy and who can better support
them in life’s journey. Are we aware of those with whom we chose to spend our
time? It is said that we are a reflection of the five people closest to us. There are
times when relationships are no longer bringing out the best in us. When we
become aware of this we must consider pulling up our anchors to make room for
new and potentially healthier relationships.
Sometimes a storm can cause an island to drift significantly overnight and they
can wake up on the shores of a different country. Are we aware of the storms of
life that cause us to drift? Do we need stronger anchors to maintain our focus on
our goals and priorities?
Finally, what are our anchors and do they serve us well? Sometimes anchors
cause us to remain stuck in a negative space. It might be time to pull up our
anchors so we can move into a new territory. Are we anchored by limiting beliefs
that cause us to play small in the world? Are we anchored by old fears that
prevent us from taking risks and acting boldly so that we can grow? Are we
anchored by new fears that are simply not true?
I ask you to consider-is it time to rebuild or move your island? We do best when
we are growing and learning-using our gifts, helping others, living with joy. If you
feel stagnant or displeased with where you are in your life, I encourage you to pull
up your anchors and try something new-get unstuck and allow your island to
move to a new space with new people for some new adventure!
Much to be learned from the Uros people of Peru!
Written by Cathy Fitzpatrick
I am a UCLA graduate and reside in CA. Part time in Carlsbad and part time in Crestline with my beautiful but dysfunctional dog Bodie. My family includes my wonderful son and daughter in law who live in CO and my mom who lives close by in Carlsbad. Also blessed by two communities of close neighbors and friends. I am fortunate to spend my free time running, biking and kayaking at the beach and lake. I also really enjoy podcasts and reading.
I started in the mortgage industry in 1985 as a part time processor (as if there is such a thing!). My career has included processing, underwriting and producing branch manager. I love everything mortgage!
Currently my passion lies in sharing what I have learned over the span of my life and career through coaching. Being able to encourage people to grow into their big dreams bring me an indescribable joy. I am honored to be able to do this with my Fairway Family members who have a shared vision and culture.
