When you travel, you have your itinerary, and then there are the spontaneous moments that create the magic. Ordinary stop-offs and last-minute decisions can create a lasting memory. We traveled to Schweitzer Mountain in Idaho. Up the curvy mountain road we drove to the top. This week was the shoulder season, when they cleaned up after winter and got ready for summer. We explored the beauty, had some coffee, and swirled back down again. On the way down, we saw a lookout, and with a last-minute, “Let’s stop there!” the SUV swirled into the small lot.

Off to the side, a family shared the view with us. We were busy admiring the majestic view when, suddenly, I realized what they were doing. Scattering a loved one’s ashes over the mountain into the wind. Mom, grandmom, grand-daughter, and perhaps the husband or a brother were awkwardly but lovingly following through with their love and respect. I gently asked them as they walked back to the car, “Did you just have a moment?” And the daughter smiled at me with a silent “Yes.” I walked up to the grandmother and asked if I could hug her. “Who are you?” she asked. Precious. I said, “My name is Anna, and your beautiful spirit made me want to hug you.” Her face was etched with many years and a smile that knew the importance of kindness.

Walking back to the mountain view, I was overcome with emotion. Of all the things, events, and places we traveled, God saw fit for us to be here with them at that time. Why? Does it even matter why? All that mattered was the message from God to my soul and mind. I asked my husband and my friends, through tears, for a minute. Can we pause? After explaining what I just witnessed, I asked everyone, including myself, to consider the precious moment we experienced – the not-so-random stop. How are we here in this moment, busy with our lives, working, traveling, and caring for our families, but then one day, we leave this earth, and our life is done.

I thought of my Vivian, who was at that moment giving birth to her son, while another family said goodbye to their loved one. The continuous love that cycles over and over again, and how great our God is. I was able to FaceTime her at around 12:30 PM my time, 3:30 her time. Welcome to the world, Aries Cole!

For just a moment, no one spoke a word, and with no cars, no other people on the mountain, the silence of being still with no words swept through my brain – I felt it go through my ear from the right and sweep out from the left. It was a spiritual cleansing of the mind. You can’t stay on the mountain forever; we move on with our lives, just as Jesus did with Peter, James, and John (Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36). We beg for moments like that to last. Jesus took them up the mountain. Jesus led us to this spot. Peter wanted to build tents and remain, but Jesus sent them back down the mountain because the cross, the resurrection, and the mission still lay ahead. God spoke to them on the mountain, telling the disciples who Jesus was – His Son.

Later that day, on nature walks, His spirit walked with me through sunlight on the water and path, a hummingbird flying directly into my face to say hello, and even a little snake that slithered across our path. The smell of the clean air and cedar had a butterscotch-and-cinnamon aroma.

As we stood in silence, the weight of life’s fleeting nature sank in deep. The raw emotions we experienced at that overlook sparked a realization: each moment carries profound significance, even when we don’t fully understand its purpose. It’s essential to take a step back and appreciate the threads of connection that weave through our lives.

1. Pause and Reflect: Set aside time each week, even if just for a few minutes, to reflect on your life’s journey. Consider the moments that have shaped you, the small instances of grace, and the love shared.
2. Embrace the Spontaneous: Allow yourself to be open to last-minute decisions — whether it’s taking a different route home, stopping at a scenic overlook, or trying a new coffee shop. These spontaneous moments hold the potential for connection and beauty.
3. Connect with Loved Ones: Reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. Share your thoughts, celebrate life’s milestones, or simply check in. These connections remind us of the threads that bind our lives together.
4. Practice Gratitude: Each day, jot down a few things you’re grateful for. This practice helps shift your perspective, fostering awareness of the blessings that surround you, even in the mundane. Tell people you love them.
5. Honor Moments of Transition: Whether you’re experiencing joy or loss, recognize these moments as sacred. They remind us of our humanity and can help us stay grounded.
6. Seek Spiritual Nourishment: Engage in spiritual practices that resonate with you—be it prayer, meditation, or time spent in nature. Allow yourself to feel connected to something greater.

As we left that mountain, my heart felt lighter. The silence we shared became a spiritual cleansing, and I realized life, with all its twists and turns, is a remarkable journey. We may not have the answers to why we experience certain moments, but we can find meaning in them by being present, cherishing, and honoring the connections that shape our existences. Let us not rush through life but savor each day, weaving our own stories with intention and love.