Years ago at my friend Christian Dugas birthday, I met his dad Norm. We had a brief philosophical conversation. Norm told me about an architect who designed a university with no immediate sidewalks. The reason for this was that the architect had the patience to wait and see where people naturally walked on the grounds. After a year, when all of the naturally imprinted trails were present, he paved over them thus creating the sidewalks.
This story has stuck with me for years for a few reasons…
1. It taught me patience in development. I’m willing to allow the organic process of creation to unfold and just simply show up to pave the obvious. That is not always easy.
2. It was a reminder to be receptive to information that has the potential to re-direct every thought in my head towards something that makes more logical sense or helps me to appreciate life more.
3. Never underestimate the power of a five minute conversation with someone you just meet.
Thank you Norm.
May 7th, 2011 at 4:47 pm
Another great post!