The large, gleaming white tent sat like a beacon at the edge of the parking lot by the sea. A warm California breeze felt comforting as it swept across my tired eyes. I closed them for a moment and stood still, took a deep breath and soaked up the sun on my face. “You’ve got this” I told myself as I stepped across the street and up to the front of the tent.

Energizing music and lights flooded the check in area, I could feel my heart beat speeding up as I collected my name tag and welcome packet. I made my way through the door and into the energy. “You’ve got this, this is going to be a powerful day” I told myself as I scanned the faces, smiled, breathed slowly in and out before picking out a seat in the middle.

The women sitting next to me leaned across to introduce themselves, everyone I’d met so far was so welcoming I could feel my shoulders relax as we exchanged welcomes and hugs. Back in my seat I took out my notebook and pen, wrote the date and an intention across the top line: “You’re worth it, there is so much possibility, keep an open mind”

The music stopped and the lights came up as the speakers walked onto the stage, it was a celebration of positive energy. I’d never been in a setting like this, hundreds of like-minded women together intent on improving their lives and the lives of others. This was exactly where I was meant to be. The power of this abundant, joyful energy filled my heart. I looked around at all the cheering, grateful faces and thought for a second maybe this is a dream.

When I heard her speak for the first time I sat back fully in my chair, folded my notebook, closed my eyes and listened with all of my being. She had a way of speaking, seeing and knowing what each woman that stood up needed most. Her style of coaching was kind and clear, intuitive and personal, it was authentic and in service. It felt like hearing my favorite song for the first time but I already knew the words. It felt like coming home again deep in my soul. Her example of grace, confidence and empowerment in service was what I wanted to embody, it was music for my spirit.

I was ready.