Settling into the rhythms of mid-life has surprisingly provided a kind of grounded-fullness I had not anticipated, and its result has been a new, personal and genuinely integrated sense of adventure. Somehow, I have stumbled upon a depth of self-awareness, awareness of others, and blessed awareness of the Love that binds us all together in a way I had not previously known. This Sacred gift seems to have happily placed me in the midst of ever new experiences, adventures with family and friends, and opportunities to build new relationships in the city I love. Whether I am out in the parks, walking down city streets, in hospital rooms or houses of worship, I am humbled and amazed to be sharing in a life I never thought possible. Born and raised in Atlanta, I am continually thankful to be grounded by the familiarity of my southern-fried hometown (flaws and all) and remain excited by its many possibilities. As I continue to meet new people, listen to their stories, and, of course, share a few of my own, my increasing sense that we all, indeed, belong to one another, is consistently expanding. My human-self is still growing, still learning, but intentional in joyfully acknowledging that ‘to know and be known’ is assuredly among the greatest treasures of life. + Pax, jackie