We are always aware of our intention, our effort, and our impact. Seven years in and we have learned to accept nature on her terms, and to remain grateful and open to the gifts and challenges of living as part of an intentional enclosed urban ecosystem. The most important intention is always gratitude. I am reminded of this by this powerful poem translation by 14th Century Persian poet, Rumi:

The Guest House

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house empty of its furniture,
Still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
Meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.

Be grateful for whatever comes.
Because each has been sent as a guide from beyond.

— Rumi

This is a perfect meditation for a life lived with purpose amongst change and chaos. The moment we become angry victims in our own hearts is the moment we become MOST VULNERABLE and chaotic. It’s importabt to reframe this intention. Consider change as your rent in this world. No one lives for free, and just because you don’t know that does NOT mean there is no cost. Rumi knew this. We live this truth.

Be grateful and open to change, this season and every season. Change is the currency of nature. It cannot be collected only leveraged. Change or destroy. Like a river or a flood. It is up to us to see the wisdom and be the change.