It’s difficult to articulate the feeling of watching the sun rise from above the clouds atop the summit of Haleakalā on Maui. What a unique and otherworldy place. Our view of the horizon was just beyond a massive, cinder filled volcanic crater at about 10,000 feet. The contrast of tropical coasts, rainforests, and open landscapes that you move through on your ascent to this cold, somewhat barren summit adds to the awe. It was a powerful experience that my wife, Amy, and I were able to enjoy with friends.
Above about 7000, feet Haleakalā begins to feel like a harsh and desolate place. The Haleakalā silversword is a defining feature on the landscape. The silversword can live for several decades. It flowers only once—producing a spectacular stalk covered with purple, sunflower-like blossoms—and then dies after setting seed. It naturally occurs nowhere else on Earth, except above 7000 feet on one mountain.
The Takeaway
The vistas of the natural world are inspiring. There’s nothing I love more about outdoor pursuits than the views. It’s rare that I think much about the plants that I see. The sliverswords stood out because of their uniqueness and because there’s nothing much else growing in the volcanic rock. They reminded me of how life often challenges us to thrive through resilience and a willingness to adapt.
The Reflection
There really is no steady state existence. We will always be faced with new seasons of life, new challenges, and new opportunities. We must adapt and grow to thrive. We must be resilient.
Field Question
How are you adapting to changes and challenges in your life?
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