I believe in fate. My husband and I took a day trip today. On the way, we shared our feelings about some recent turmoil within our family. During the last six months, we have stepped up to the plate to help our daughter and grandson through a rough patch. This painting on the wall of a building was the perfect reminder that sometimes even if it may not feel like it we are definitely where we are meant to be in the moment.

I have always said that family comes first in my life. I would do anything for them. The decision to move 2200 miles away from most of my family (NH to TX) was one of the most difficult ones in my life. The thing is, I realized today I am right where I am supposed to be because the family I have here needs me the most right now. There have been times when it was not clear what my purpose was or why I was experiencing what I was experiencing. And then comes a moment like today when that cloud lifts and the meaning becomes clear.

As a child, I was taught to respect my elders, be kind to others, and always set goals for myself. Life is about accepting challenges. This is not always graceful or pleasant. I have had many moments in life that I would not want to relive. I have had many more moments that I never wanted to end. Right now I do not want to relive the sadness I am feeling but I don’t want the hugs or love or smiles from my grandson to end. I will be the strength both my daughter and grandson need.

While we were out shopping we bumped into a couple of my husband’s cousins. One of them just lost her 15-month-old grandson to a sudden illness. Definitely, a difficult time for their family as they face the holidays without one of their most beloved members. Talking with her made me think about how we all have circumstances in our lives that may not be what we would choose. She and her family are suffering a heartbreak that not many can understand. Their strong faith is helping them survive a terrible situation. They are leaning on one another. Our situations may be very different but we are both supporting our adult children. We hugged and shared some tears while standing in the aisle of Marshall’s. We know we are also there for each other.

What have you done in your life that leads you to where you are today? Are you where you need to be right now? Maybe that difficult situation you are dealing with is happening for a reason. Look for that reason. Find peace in the present.