7 am. With the early morning dew showering blades of grass with tiny diamonds, and the roosters crowing like a wretched chorus, I roll myself out of bed, making my way outside to the garden where my grandpa was already working. He was near the chicken incubator, and I stepped in just in time to see the tiny beak of a new life making it’s way into the world. Time slows down, freezing for a moment….

Many basic human needs such as shoes, water, and books (education) are often taken for granted, while they are a luxury to those who are captives of human trafficking. This week’s vignettes explore the overlooked stories of these objects. I hope this is an encouragement to pause, ponder, and consider your perspective.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”-Margaret Mead

The other day, I was chatting with *Patricia. While we discussed some of our past travels and highlighted fond memories, she recounted her trip to Sacramento, pointing out that she didn’t really remember what happened that weekend, the restaurants and tours all a whirlwind,  but she said, “I  remembered who I was with.”

Here’s a poem that I wrote to *Bob and Janet, who have been tremendous mentors over the past few years. Cheers to your adventurous and forever childlike spirits ! I am inspired by your curiosity and willingness to learn, even from younger people like me !

Inspired by a conversation about social media with a group of seniors….

Perspective Shift: Part 2

With the world pulling us in every direction
More than ever
We need deeper connection

This year, my grandfather wrote me a letter for my 16th birthday, gifting it to me alongside a couple oranges from his beloved garden. Amid an age bombarded with tweets, texts, and notifications, this real, honest to goodness, made from tree letter was an unusual refresher! As I unfolded the yellow lined paper, unearthing line after line of carefully crafted sentences, I soaked up all of the wisdom my grandpa offered. Here are a few highlights: 

As an aspiring musician, I definitely have my days where I wonder if it’s all worth it: the scraggly notes that tangle themselves together as you stumble through a new piece, the long practice hours, the callouses, the nervousness before concerts–what does it all stand for?