What Would You Do If You Lost Everything?
I’m heartbroken all over again every time I hear a new story about homes and lives being devastated by the wildfires ravaging Los Angeles.
Countless families are grappling with profound loss. Homes filled with cherished memories have been reduced to ashes, forcing people to face the unimaginable: having to start over with nothing. It’s a devastating reality that reminds us how fragile life can be and how, in mere hours, everything we take for granted can be gone.
For many, the wildfires have brought sudden upheaval. Families had minutes to evacuate, leaving behind homes, belongings, and a sense of stability. The physical loss is visible, but the psychological trauma runs deep. But even in times of crisis like these, there are stories of strength and resilience that we can all take lessons from. Tales of heroic acts and resilience that show us what it means to truly rise from the ashes. It’s often difficult to listen to these heart-wrenching stories, but I encourage you to take some time to take some in and try to understand what our brothers and sisters are going through.
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Lessons We Can Learn
For those of us fortunate enough to observe these events from a distance, they invite reflection. What would you do if you lost everything? What would you cling to? What would you miss the most?
Loss forces us to strip away distractions and focus on what truly matters: relationships, health, and the moments we often overlook in daily life. The resilience shown by wildfire survivors challenges us to ask how we can bring that same clarity and strength into our own lives and leadership.
Finding Strength Amidst Crisis
The lessons from those who’ve faced such profound loss are universal. They remind us to:
Appreciate the present. We often obsess with ‘what’s next’ whether that be career goals, business milestones, or personal achievements. Take a moment right now to realize that this moment is truly a gift. Take stock of what you have and who you’re sharing it with.
Support others. In the face of unimaginable loss, survivors often speak of how small acts of kindness—a neighbor checking in, a stranger offering help—become lifelines. Consider how you can extend support, whether by donating, volunteering, or simply being there for someone in need.
Prepare for the unexpected. None of us can predict the future, but we can cultivate resilience to weather life’s storms. Are you prioritizing what truly matters? Are you building a foundation strong enough to endure unforeseen challenges?
The wildfires in Los Angeles remind us how quickly life can change. They also remind us of the human capacity for resilience, community, and hope. As you go through your week, I invite you to reflect on this question: If you lost everything, what would truly matter? Let the answers guide how you live, lead, and support those around you.
To those affected by the wildfires, my heart is with you. And to all of us witnessing their courage, let’s honor it by leading lives filled with gratitude, purpose, and compassion.
