There is magic in every sunrise.

A Maui sunrise is just more magical than the rest.

This photo was taken from our balcony at the Sheraton on Maui. I woke up to the sounds and smell of the ocean coming through the lanai doors. I looked out and could not believe my eyes. The sky was painted in purples and pinks, reflecting onto the water. I knew I had to capture this moment.

I jumped out of bed and grabbed my camera. I went out onto the lanai and snapped away. Once I captured my image I just stood there. Absorbing the smell, the sounds, the moment.

A Maui sunrise has a way to make you slow down, to take in the moment. I love sunrises to begin with and Arizona creates some amazing ones but nothing compares to the way the sun and clouds paint the sky in Hawaii.

Looking at this photograph reminds me I need to slow down more often. I need to line in the moment, worry less about what might happen and focus on the present. I know I can be a bit type A and a bit of a perfectionist. I am trying to let these behaviors go. I never want to forget that moment of waking up to the ocean and being awed by what nature shows us.

I am learning to let go and live in the moment more. It’s hard but worth it. If I ever forget why I just look at this photograph and become transported.

Do you have a photograph or moment that you look at or think about when the going gets tough? Share it in the comments.