The skies above me here in Marina del Rey—just seven miles south of the Pacific Palisades fire—are beginning to clear. Yet the emotional weight of these wildfires remains heavy. I want to start by letting you know I’m safe, and I’m so grateful to those of you who reached out to check on me.
On Tuesday, January 7th, at 11:00 a.m., I had just left a meeting in Marina del Rey when I looked to the north and saw billowing smoke. It was shocking, but I had no idea then the destruction and scale that fire would reach. Now, days later, the damage has unfolded before our eyes, and it’s overwhelming.
The Pacific Palisades has always been a special place for me. Over the years, I’ve hiked its beautiful trails, met friends for meals at local spots, and even gave a TEDx talk at Palisades High. I’ve spent many evenings at the Theatre Palisades, watching performances that brought joy and inspiration. There’s even a Starbucks there where I used to meet clients for coaching sessions—sharing coffee and ideas that sparked transformation.
Now, seeing so many of these beloved spaces partially or completely destroyed—the trails, the playhouse, the businesses—has been heartbreaking. I’ve seen firsthand pictures and texts from friends showing the devastation, and many personal friends I care deeply about have lost their homes. It feels impossible to make sense of it all.
Yet, amid the destruction, I’ve also seen extraordinary beauty. Many friends of mine opened their homes to evacuees, providing safety and comfort during such an uncertain time. I visited the local YMCA and saw it flooded with supplies and volunteers ready to help. These acts of kindness and connection are a poignant reminder of how resilient we can be, even in the darkest of times.
As I think about the loss, I’m reminded of something I often explore in coaching: when the familiar is taken away, it can create space for us to see what truly matters.
While it’s natural to grieve what’s been lost, these moments also call us to imagine what could be rebuilt—not as it was, but perhaps as something more meaningful, intentional, and enduring.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your own challenges or by the weight of these events, please know it’s normal.
When you’re ready, take the time you need to reflect, practice self-care, and, above all, reach out for support. You don’t have to go through this alone.
The Pacific Palisades will never look exactly the same. But its spirit—a spirit of connection, creativity, and resilience—remains.
So, I leave you with this question:
What can you create or rebuild in your life that reflects what truly matters to you?
Take some time to sit with this question. If you feel moved to share your thoughts, I’d love to hear from you—just hit reply.
Thank you for being part of this community. Your support reminds me, as these wildfires have reminded so many, that together, we can rise, rebuild, and thrive.
With gratitude,
Hayden
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