This summer Michael and I spent some time on the East Coast with our family. We started in Chattanooga, Tennessee visiting Michael's Mom, Peggy, and more than 40 family members. One precious moment was when Peggy held the littlest member of the family. 

I thought about how much had changed in the 87 years since Peggy was born in 1934 and little Molly in 2021. I wondered about all the things Peggy had learned and how Molly could benefit from three generations of life experience. This made me appreciate the power of passing on one's legacy through writing a memoir.

From Chattanooga, we spent a few days in Nashville and enjoyed the live country music scene. In the evening we played games and busted out some epic tunes. The Air BNB house we rented came with a karaoke system and even had a stage with disco ball lights. Oh boy, can my family sing!

We also spent a few days in Raleigh with my family and started out with an ax-throwing competition. My Dad, 91, hit a bullseye!

We walked the flea market, one of our favorite activities, where I found this Celestite heart geode. Celestite is often associated with divine power and is thought to increase understanding, higher consciousness, as well as mindfulness when used in meditation and prayer. I love crystals and stones. This one weighed 8 pounds but I figured out how to get it home!

Michael and I also spent a few days at the beach. I thoroughly enjoy walking on the beach and listening to the breathing of the waves. The footprints in the sand are someone's journey and tell a story.

I came across this footprint pattern and thought, Everyone has a story and even though our destinations may be similar, each person's journey is completely different. These footprints were going to the same channel of water I was headed toward, but their approach to getting there was a lot more artistic than mine! 

Michael and I returned home from our time with family grateful for every moment we got to spend with them. Our hearts were full of deep gratitude.

I was reminded that everyone has a story. It is easy to look at someone and make an assumption about their life. You may think because they have money they have had an easy life. Or because they are beautiful, they've been loved and accepted. But everyone has a story. When you put your assumptions aside, take the time to listen, and ask questions, you may find that that person crossed your path for some particular reason. Their story could be an answer to a question you've been asking. They could be a divine connection in your life.

Take the time to listen. Everyone has a story.