Melissa Aben

Spent the last seven weeks in the Philippines, moving through six cities: attending two weddings, visiting my father at his resting place, spending time with his side of the family, and returning to my mother’s hometown. A lot to hold in ninety seconds.

More than anything it was the people. I left with a deeper understanding that connection is currency, and the more open you are, the more life expands in ways you don’t plan. The locals, their families, entrepreneurs, coaches and athletes, and kind strangers who shared pieces of their lives with me reminded me that the most meaningful parts of life reveal themselves by simply sitting down and listening. More of this, always.

I felt held through all of it. Thank you, Lord