I recently had an incredible vacation in Medora, North Dakota. If you’ve never been there, I highly encourage you to schedule a visit. There is even more to do now than what I remember from several years ago and the expansion continues. This is actually what inspired me to write about the rhythm of belief. 

I don’t have all the nitty gritty details about Medora, but here is what I did understand. This community has come together based on a belief that the world can be a better place, we can inspire others to do great things, preserving nature matters, spending time with family and friends is important, and people who love their jobs and are empowered to do what they love will far exceed any expectation. 

Here is some the evidence for what I experienced:

We attended the Medora Musical. This is quite the show in this incredible outdoor amphitheater. I wasn’t just inspired by the musicians and performers giving it their all on an almost-90 degree day, but the manager of the foundation was running up and down these stairs selling popcorn—working right alongside the other volunteers and employees, sweat was dripping down his face just like the rest of them. He went from this “job” to going on stage to welcome us and talk a little about the history of Medora and then thanking our veterans. As the veterans stood, I’ll admit I had a tear or two fall down my face. This man had a passion and fire for what he was doing and he was willing to do whatever it took to bring this dream and passion to life. He has a rhythm of belief.

The next inspiration came following the musical when we went to grab a bite to eat at the Rough Riders Hotel Restaurant and Bar. This is where we encountered two of the most inspiring, passionate individuals named Donnie and Crystal. Crystal used to be a nurse but needed a change of pace and also wanted to see the world. She happened to meet her now-husband, Donnie, who would probably describe himself as “nomadic.” They work at many of the national parks, bringing their zest for customer service, creating better food menus and original, hand crafted cocktails. Donnie actually creates all of his own ingredients. He showed us how he has perfected the rhubarb martini and more. Watching each of them work was truly a treat. I sipped on the best Old Fashion I had ever had. I don’t drink much at all, but I’m glad I indulged in this one drink. The belief these two had in what they are doing, their support in each other, the empowerment they had to do their jobs and so much more was evident on multiple levels. Don’t take my word for it—go meet and experience them in person.

I could go on and on, but I want to capture these five key points. There is a rhythm to belief and you know when you know. This is what we see in others and ourselves when belief is there:

• Passion. When people believe, they are passionate about what they are doing and how they show up in the world.
• Confidence. When people believe in what they are doing, they move forward with confidence.
• Trust. When people believe in what they are doing, they trust the process. It may take longer to do something at times, but they trust because they believe in the vision.
• Commitment. When people believe, they are committed to the process and experience.
• Empowerment. When people believe, they empower themselves and others. It ties into the trust and confidence pieces.

I came back from vacation even more inspired to keep creating good work in the world. What does your rhythm of belief look like? What are the ways you are bringing passion, confidence and trust to life? What are the ways you are empowering yourself and others? I’d love to hear about it!