I went to the beach wanting profundity, but all I found was awe and gratitude.

It really was a picture perfect scene. The sun was setting and casting long shadows on the white sand. The sky was ablaze with hues of deep orange, purple, and blue. As I sat there, listening to the gentle rhythm of the waves, I expected to feel insignificant, or small, or inconsequential. And I did, to some extent, because how could you not when you’re face to face with the vastness of the sky or the depths of the sea? But, in my heart I felt delighted in and celebrated.

Lately, when I find myself in times of stillness or silence, I think back over the last year and how I tumbled my way down a rocky hill only to end up at the very bottom, bruised and battered. I chased significance from people who were unable and unwilling to provide it. I wandered aimlessly through my days, lost and without purpose, until everything was taken away. In that moment, I was met with the opportunity to dig deeper into who I was becoming and what I was meant to do. And as scared as I was, I asked for everything my broken heart desired, never expecting to have it given to me in abundance.

And it was there, on the shore, with the sun falling quickly below the horizon, that I didn’t feel insignificant. I felt very, very significant. I felt seen. And heard. And cherished. And rejoiced over. Like how it feels when you see a picture of yourself on someone’s refrigerator.

Perhaps one day I’ll stop writing about it.
But, I hope I always remember what a treasure this is and what a gift I’ve been given. It was worth every struggle and misplaced doubt and risk. Which is why it feels so incredibly significant.

Peace be the journey.