“The truth is that most of life will unfold in accordance with forces far outside your control, regardless of what your mind says about it.“
~Michael Singer, The Untethered Soul

Winemakers and growers spend a great deal of the Spring and early Summer trying to predict the outcome of the upcoming harvest. “What do you think about this year? Was there frost this Winter? Will we get enough rain? What if the timing of the rain isn’t right? Will the breeze keep things dry? What if the wind is too strong? Think it’ll be too hot? Are the birds going to get the grapes before we do?”

Some years, Mother Nature shows her benevolence and everything lines up perfectly. Other years though, one unexpected storm hits at just the wrong time, and kicks off a whirlwind of challenges. Still, though, somewhat manageable.

Then there is the unprecedented year we are all dealing with at the moment. When just about every last thing we could have expected is happening – at the same time no less – many of us feel inclined to clench tighter, hunker down, keep all the unknowns as far away as possible and micromanage even the smallest, most insignificant details.

Letting go of control and expectation can be the most terrifying and depressing thing to imagine.

On a personal twist, my brother and sister-in-law had to cancel their wedding in March, two weeks before the scheduled date. They had spent a year planning the most perfect celebration to share with their family and closest friends. Of course they were beyond disappointed.

With grace, a willingness to embrace the unexpected and through the ability to let go, we were able to give them the smallest, most beautiful ceremony on top of the hill behind the winery. It was certainly not the day they had envisioned, but it became its own beautiful day of celebration, love and happiness, that I can be sure they will never forget!

This is where I was reminded of what a special community we live in and how the Charles R family has embraced me and those I care about most. After all, it’s not about who helps you out in good times, but who is there when things get hard.

Stay safe and be well.
Cheers,
Lisa