The most common question I got from friends when I returned from Greece was, “What was the best part of the trip?” I think they expected me to say something about a new found connection with my Greek heritage or an explanation of the magnificence of the Greek temples and sites… the food, the beauty of sea, the people, the wine, the romance of the islands.

 

The short answer was all of the above and more.

 

Once we arrived on Crete, the pace slowed down. This was a time of beach going, novel reading, kayaking, hiking, lazy days by the pool and lots of gatherings at local tavernas. Hiking the Samaria Gorge was a highlight. The gorge is a 12-mile hike down a nearly 1000-foot crevice at the most southern part of Crete. The views are spectacular. It requires a bus ride deep into the mountains to get to the drop off point and takes about 5 hours to hike it. A few days later, I penned these words in my journal. It answers the question, “What was the best part of the trip?”

 

July 15, 2016

Hiked the Samaria Gorge on Wednesday. Today is Friday and my calves are still hurting a bit. The hike was not hard, but required focus. A lot of looking at my feet so I didn’t trip on rocks and roots. In order to really take it all in, we had to stop. Literally, stop walking and look up and around. The few times I tried to look up and walk, I tripped. Enjoying the magnificent views was literally only accomplished when I stood still. I guess it’s obvious that stillness brings a level of awareness and appreciation to seeing the beauty that surrounds me. Apparently, I am still learning that principle.

 

See the beauty that is around you. And by this, I mean in the people around you.

I went on to write…

Receive the inheritance that blesses you and others. Embrace it, run with it. It’s uniquely yours.

 

I am keenly aware that my inheritance transcends ethnic roots – from both sides of my family. My parents, siblings, cousins, friends and loved ones are incredible people. It literally took stopping and observing to see it more clearly. They are inquisitive, creative, resourceful, inspiring and tenacious. If there were a genetic test for these traits, it would be written in my DNA. And for that, I am truly grateful.

 

How often do we go about our busy days and not to see this?  Can we pause for just a few moments today and look for the treasure that is all around us? I think so.

 

What is your inheritance? What are positive themes that you may be missing because you may be focusing the shortcomings of those around you? What strengths can you pull from them and use to bless others? If you take time to look, you may find something new.  I hope you do.

 

Receive the inheritance that blesses you and others. Embrace it, run with it. It’s uniquely yours.