“Life is made up of a few moments all strung together like pearls. Each moment is a pearl. And it is up to us to pick the ones with the highest luster.”
Joyce Hifler, author of “Think on These Things” and “When the Night Bird Sings? “
When I decided to launch Lynn Dale Events, I began searching for an image that would capture the essence of how I wanted to do business with clients. Armed with a list of ideas, I began the hunt for an icon that would say, “here is who we are.” Let me say it was not easy.
Having an idea of what you want before you start something is always a good approach. But remembering the old adage — the best laid plans often go astray — means that trouble can start when your vision remains an absolute and pays no regard to the inevitable list of variables that come into play. “Keep your eye on the prize” is a great motto, but it is helpful to be open to the various ways you might achieve what you are looking for.
In my case I was sure the iconic image I was looking for might show up after enough time searching the web. I mean can’t you just research images that mean “Wedding planner” “Event planner”? Surely there’s something iconic out there. Little did I know the journey I was about to embark on.
For me, recognizing the flawless and unique beauty of a pearl as a metaphor for my business philosophy came about slowly after reading a detailed description about how pearls grow. I thought, “Wow, that’s it. That’s the process I want to enjoy with my clients.” From a small grain of sand to a perfectly unique object of beauty.
A few days after my revelation I went to Whole Foods and brought home Oysters Rockefeller for my husband. I had never bought them before and can’t tell you why I bought them that day. As we sat down to dinner that evening he suddenly put his hand to his mouth. I was sure he was going to take out a bit of oyster shell. Instead he found this: A simple pearl. Perfect.
Although I threw away the shell it came in, the small pearl he found inside sits in a box on my desk. While I am grateful he didn’t choke on it, the pearl reminds me every day that inspiration can show up in the strangest places, even at Whole Foods, so remember to keep your eyes, and mind, open.
