As the conversation unfolded, I found myself on a memory walk. People and places which had long ago faded into the recesses of my memories were revisited with a fresh perspective. In several cases, I was caught off guard by the introduction of new perspectives from pieces of stories which overlapped with mine.
In the reflection of the characters in these stories, I can see the ways each has influenced my life and its course. As unique and different as individuals can be, I am struck by the similarities they share. With the benefit of time, the foundations in each life are eerily similar.
There is a playful curiosity with life shared by everyone. While it is wrapped in many different forms – the introverted and outgoing along with the traditional and edgy – each in her or his own way is looking to experience the fullness of what life can offer. In many cases, the stories can only be shared from the safety which comes with the passing of time.
Souls are best described by kindness and love. In cases where we were close at the time as well as travelers who have shared the road for many years without really knowing each other until more recent times, a common attribute is a kind and loving heart. I may not have picked up on this when I was young, but with age, it is so obvious! While each is fully human, I have experienced the touch of their soul which is God like.
In walking through our shared stories, there was a common thread which holds their foundation in place. Each has placed their trust in the principles on which their life has been built.
Kindness, love, and the willingness to experience and do more are shared by these characters. The Psalmist whispers remind me how strong this foundation will always be; “those who trust in God are like Zion Mountain.” (Psalm 125.1). In the uncertainties which one brings, I find strength in how God worked through them. Today is my opportunity to build on these stones.
