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Taking a glance through the lens of someone else is a great way to put things back in perspective. It’s amazing what we take for granted just because we’re used to it.

My cousin flew out to LA a couple of weeks ago to visit a friend. Born and raised in Chicago like me, he mentioned that he’d never been hiking. Since I hike on a pretty regular basis, I took him to my usual spot.

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He could have easily dusted me if we were racing, but he would stop every once in a while to take it all in. Amazed at the beauty of our surroundings, he would pause and take pictures when there was a good view.

I didn’t think it was a big deal. Yet, this was a completely new experience for him. He was focused on the beauty of God’s creation, and I was focused on killing my inner fat kid.

We can sometimes be so used to a certain situation that we don’t appreciate it for the blessing that it is.

I get frustrated sometimes at work, but I’m blessed to be gainfully employed. My car is modest for a guy in the record industry, but it’s paid for and running great. As much as I give Los Angeles the side-eye for whatever reason, I definitely appreciate it when it’s 8° in Chicago.

My point is this: take a look around every once in a while and appreciate the season you’re in. Not to be complacent, but to be content. Whether brought on by life or by self, good or bad, every situation has its purpose and duration. It takes wisdom to be okay with that.

My goal this year and beyond is to be thankful for everything I’ve been blessed with, and genuinely optimistic for whatever comes my way in the future.

Orondé

Orondé Jenkins is a multidisciplinary artist and media consultant based in Nashville. No Average Journey was born out of his desire to help artists grow in their lives and careers.