Moving From The Inside-Out

Even though I grew up only six hours away, it took me twenty-four years to get out of my circle and visit NYC. As someone who grew up in quiet suburbia, its diversity cranked-up my pilot light.

Today, when the world gets tense, I look to it for hope. Albeit it has its issues, but somehow close to nine million people on twenty-three squares miles live together in relative peace and connectedness. Even as they believe, love, pray and feel differently. Instead of being a melting pot, it’s a big salad, with people of different cultures living in harmony, like arugula, heirloom tomatoes, organic carrots, and avo in a salad – hey, it’s New York, it’s a very bougie salad. I said it had its issues.

Yesterday was an emotional day. We moved our oldest into NYC. Thanks to “pandemic pricing,” she and her high school BFF now have a six-floor walk-up in the city that never sleeps. Since she grew up seven-miles away, she knows her way around, and I hope she uses this moment to travel further outside her circle.

This week’s video is about moving out of our circles, living inside-out, and creating more belonging.

Thanks for watching, subscribing, and sharing to help others create more belonging.

Until next week, remember to Pause.Breathe.Reflect. on how you can live a more diverse life, and, of course, have fun storming the castle.

Michael

p.s., On my bedside table are You Belong by Sebene Selassie, Think Again by Adam Grant, and Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man by Emmanuel Acho

p.s.s., If you own a business or have a side hustle, I want to invite you to join me at Conference 21. You will receive access to a wealth of advice that will help you create a better tomorrow. You can save your spot HERE.