Fourteen years ago I took the risk of saying “yes” when my husband suggested we use our equity line to purchase a bookstore in Point Reyes Station. I am so grateful we took that risk. The store has enriched my life in countless ways that I am even more vividly aware of now that we are selling Point Reyes Books.

Two of the gifts from having owned the bookstore stand out for me at this bittersweet time. First and foremost are the relationships with co-workers, customers, authors and people who work in the book biz. Each and every day I am touched by multiple exchanges with incredible people.

The second gift is that I worked harder than I ever had worked before. Rolling up my sleeves and getting the job done entailed a never-ending mix of mundane, challenging and gratifying tasks. This made me stronger.

And now we are taking the risk of selling Point Reyes Books. How will I navigate my life without this rich vehicle for engagement with the world? How will I feel without the security of a steady income? Where will my nourishment come from without the daily sustenance of heartfelt exchanges in the bookstore?

One of the reasons I’m taking the risk of selling the bookstore is to focus on my Emotional Currency work, which has so often been pushed aside for bookstore tasks. I am very excited to have more time to think, write, offer workshops, and connect with women around the world, helping to transform their emotional relationship to money.

What are the risks you want (or need) to take in your life? This line from Mary Oliver’s poem “The Summer Day” helped us take this risk. Maybe it will help you take yours. Oliver asks, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

Published 6/2/16