The Backyard Break

I’m sure this has never happened to you, but last night I was in a funk! It’s been a great but challenging few weeks, and I finally needed a little break. I told my wife that I was going to walk around the path next to the pond because water always resets my mind. Instead of finishing the loop, I made a last-minute turn into the “nature park”. After seeing all the heavy-breathing joggers, I took another turn into a neighborhood. As I walked down the sidewalk, I noticed a gentleman, in front of his stunning house, pruning his shrubs. I took a little closer look, and it was one of my favorite people I had ever met. Should I journey over to say, “Hello?” Of course.

Brent Gibson (https://brentgibson.com/) is one of the most renowned architects in the region. Designing some of the most stunning buildings and homes one could ever see. What makes him incredible, though, is that he’s even a greater person.

After a quick reintroduction, we were off for some fun. (A lot I won’t share to protect his family's privacy) While walking around his family's house, I couldn't help but be enamored by the details. The art of the brick. The perfect placement of flowers, the water gently running to remind you of a Colorado stream. The fescue grass perfectly groomed next to the Bermuda grass, instead of just letting dirt sit in the yard. The trees perfectly manicured to keep both grasses growing at the designed heights. The grasses are mowed at their designed heights, instead of just one level. Then he invited me in, and it really got fun!

What impressed me, and encouraged me the most?

He remembered me from 18 years ago?

He remembered the details of the house plan we bought from him?

He gave me a book of art he had done decades ago, at a challenging point in his life? Stunning!

He invited me to come see him, and just dream through the different designs?

He and his family have been planted in the same church for 36 years?

He and I were able to connect the dots on many of our mutual relationships.

He was 100% invested in our time, except for when…

He took the calls from his granddaughter to help instruct her how to do some things to succeed! Then he jumped right back off and picked up where we were in our chat.

No matter what’s going on in your life, remember that, “All blessings flow through relationships!” Don’t jump for the short-term gain in relationships, but play the long-term game that will last decades. If we ever build another house, I know who will design it! And it’s not only because he’s one of the best. It’s because he is the best! At relationships and encouragement.