Practicing the Pause: A Season of Awe

This October, I've found myself in what I call a season of awe. I believe God has been asking me to pause. No agenda, no planning another coffee meetup, and no need to organize the next gathering. Just an opportunity to be present and celebrate others. It began in September when we celebrated Women on the Rise members Kina Knisley and Gaby Toloza, who were recognized as finalists at the Pacific Edge Magazine Business Achievement Awards. Watching other women grow, succeed, and share their gifts reminded me that I don't always have to be the one making things happen.

This month, I've enjoyed being a participant rather than an organizer. I attended Heather DiRocco's Pau Hana event on October 15, where I learned about Gamma, an AI presentation tool. I'm also looking forward to Gaby's PauseFest on October 24 at YWCA Kokokahi in Kāneʻohe, an event created to encourage people to disconnect from their screens and reconnect with themselves and others. Being part of these experiences has given me time to breathe, learn something new, and appreciate the incredible work happening in our community.

Admittedly, I've been in a season of endless doing. Between facilitating, coaching, running my business, and keeping up with other responsibilities, my days have been full. I'm also working toward renewing my Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential through the International Coaching Federation (ICF), which means completing my Continuing Coach Education (CCE) requirements. Thankfully, my mentor coach, Mary Despe, has helped keep me on track. My goal is to finish those requirements by the end of October. Even while practicing the pause, life doesn't necessarily stop moving!

As I reflect on this season, I'm reminded of the fall harvest. Although we don't experience the traditional autumn changes here in Hawaiʻi, I love the symbolism. Seeds have been planted, crops have grown, and fruits and vegetables are ready to be gathered. We spend so much time planting, nurturing, and working toward something that we sometimes forget to step back and appreciate what has grown. Not every season is meant for planting something new. Some seasons are meant for appreciating what has already taken root.

Perhaps that's what God has been reminding me this month. Pausing doesn't mean I've stopped growing or contributing. It means I'm making room to recognize the blessings, relationships, and accomplishments that might otherwise pass me by. I'm learning that I don't always need to create the next opportunity. Sometimes I simply need to show up, celebrate someone else's success, and enjoy the moment. As we move toward the end of the year, I invite you to ask yourself: What have you been so busy doing that you haven't taken the time to appreciate? Maybe it's time to practice the pause and enjoy your own season of awe.