inspire me.

Today was cold, wet, long, and rainy. Everyone I encountered seemed to be in a melancholy state of mind. It's as if we've lost Fall here in the great pacific northwest and have moved directly into winter. As I walked though downtown, it was obvious we were all grieving autumn. I forgot my umbrella. What was I thinking? My hair was dripping wet, I was cold, I wrapped myself tighter within my coat but couldn't escape the chilling Seattle mist. I looked up and saw nothing but gray skies and clouds and I thought to myself, "Oh please, this is going to be such a challenge for me, please be o.k during this long, colorless winter." I started pacing faster down the streets, making my way though the hustle and bustle of downtown. Then I heard it. I heard something magnificent. Someone was singing. And what a beautiful voice they had! He was singing, loudly. And in French. And it was beautiful. He had a green umbrella and he inspired me. As the streets began to clump with people with their umbrellas I noticed myself standing in the middle waiting to cross. The gal next to me started to hum along, like she knew exactly what song he was singing. The person in front of me began to sway. I couldn't help but think, "Oh my word, is this real!?" "Is this REAL life?" "This is far too poetic and beautiful to be real. Oh my goodness. How lovely." Here we all are. Complete strangers, standing in the rain waiting to cross an intersection and we're making music together. Right then and there, I knew that I would be o.k and a wide grin stretched across my face. I knew I could make it through this change as long as I stay inspired. Inspired by music, art, and literature. Inspired by those I love. Inspired by mother nature and even the everyday people I see at crossroads and intersections.

So thank you, to the gentleman with the green umbrella. For reminding me that inspiration can come in even the smallest forms.

picture of gene kelly, singing in the rain

xo, michelle