More here than anywhere else I’ve worked, we celebrate each other. We lift each other up, share clothes, and send recipes. I hear more “This made me think of you”s here than anywhere else. A place where people can not only live, eat, and work together, but can grow together, be changed by each other, and support a better world. I feel so dang lucky.

Rainshadow is a place that believes in people. It has toughened my skin and softened my heart. Being a part of a community that values each other makes it so much easier to deal with the hard things. Because when you know you’re backed up, you can show up as the most authentic version of yourself, try new things, take risks, and come back to a group of people that will always show up for you.

They say that you become like the 5 people you spend the most time with. Well, if that’s true, then I hope I inherit Nat’s ability to show up, listen, and support her friends. Mel’s ability to make everything around her truly beautiful, selflessly and humbly. Tristan’s way of bringing joy and laughter to every situation. Sarahlee’s resilience and dedication to her people. And Melody’s ability to connect and remember every little thing about the people around her.

These are the things I will take with me as I move on from this sweet place!

What do you take with you from this place to carry out into the world?