One of my earliest childhood memories is walking to school for the very first time. I was in kindergarten, taking those small but significant steps into a new world of learning and growth. It was a crisp autumn morning, and I can still remember the way the leaves crunched beneath my feet. My mother held my hand tightly, reassuring me that everything would be okay. At that moment, I was filled with both excitement and nervousness. This was my first real step into independence, into a world that would soon become familiar but, at that time, felt enormous and unknown.
As I grew up, the world around me changed in ways that left a lasting impact on my life. I still remember where I was when President John F. Kennedy was shot. I was at Grant’s department store, a place where I had spent many hours shopping with my family. When I heard the news, I ran through the store, shouting, unable to believe what had happened. Seeing it unfold on television shook me deeply. I cried. It was a moment that made me realize how fragile life is and how quickly the world can change.
The loss of President Kennedy was not just the loss of a leader; it was the loss of an era of hope and optimism. The grief was not just mine—it was shared by an entire nation. For a child, it was hard to process the gravity of it all. I remember how the adults around me whispered in hushed tones, how the news anchors spoke with solemn voices, and how the nation seemed to hold its breath. That day taught me a lesson I would carry with me: life is precious, and we must make the most of the time we are given.
During my childhood, there was a great divide between the United States and Europe. The Cold War shaped much of the world’s fears and tensions, a stark contrast to how things feel today. It was a time of uncertainty, a time when people worried about nuclear threats and the possibility of war. We practiced duck-and-cover drills in school, something that now seems almost surreal. Yet, through it all, life moved forward. Families still gathered for meals, children still played outside, and people still found ways to laugh and love despite the looming fears of the time.
One of the experiences I am most proud of is my trip to Israel. It was more than just a journey—it was an opportunity to truly understand the depth of history, faith, and the sacredness of the land. I was able to participate in a march, an experience that filled me with awe and a deep connection to something much greater than myself. Walking the same paths where Jesus once walked, standing before the Western Wall, and seeing the vast and beautiful landscapes of the Holy Land left an imprint on my soul.
That journey was not just about history—it was about faith. It reminded me that faith is not just something we talk about or believe in; it is something we live, something we experience. The people I met, the places I visited, and the prayers I whispered all strengthened my belief that God has been present in every season of my life.
Through all of life’s challenges, I have always found strength in my faith. When I faced health struggles, I was never alone. I had people I could count on, but even more, I had God. There were moments of uncertainty, of pain, of wondering what the future would hold. But in those moments, I turned to prayer. I turned to the scriptures that had comforted me since childhood, and I found peace in knowing that God was always with me.
Being part of the Methodist Church has shaped my life in ways I can hardly put into words. I love Methodism—not just for its teachings, but for the sense of belonging it gives me. The people, the hymns, and the spirit of worship have made me feel truly connected to my faith and to a loving community. I have found deep friendships within the church, people who have supported me, prayed for me, and walked alongside me in difficult times. The Methodist Church has been my home, a place where I have learned, grown, and deepened my understanding of God’s grace.
Music has always been a source of strength for me, and my favorite hymn is A Mighty Fortress Is Our God. To me, this hymn leads the way—it carries the sound of the Church and reminds me of God’s unwavering presence in our lives. The words of the hymn echo in my heart during difficult times, reminding me that God is my protector, my refuge, my strength. There is something powerful about singing those words in a congregation, voices lifted together in praise, united in faith.
Books have also played an important role in shaping my thoughts and faith. Of course, the Bible has been my greatest guide and comfort. It is the book that has given me wisdom, insight, and the foundation of my beliefs. Beyond the Bible, I have found inspiration in devotional books, in the writings of great Christian thinkers, and in stories that remind me of the beauty of God’s creation and the power of His love.
Looking back on my life, I feel grateful for the people who have made a difference. I think of those who offered kindness when I needed it most, like the friend who invited me to stay in her apartment when I was planning to move to Maine. Her generosity meant so much, even though I chose to make my own way. There have been so many moments like that—small acts of kindness that left a deep impact. A listening ear, a warm meal, a thoughtful word—these are the things that matter most.
And then, of course, there is the love of my life. I met my husband at Grant’s department store. He was there with his mother, though at first, I mistook her for his wife—she looked so young! What drew me to him? He came from a good family, one that reflected strong values and love. And yes, I must admit—he was handsome too!
When I think about what makes a strong and lasting connection, I believe it comes down to love, closeness, and a deep sense of family. Through all of life’s ups and downs, we must be careful—careful with our words, our actions, and how we treat others. At the end of the day, what matters most is helping others. If I can be remembered for anything, I hope it is for the ways I have cared for and supported those around me.
This is my story—one of faith, love, and the journey God has led me on. Through every season—through childhood, through historic events, through challenges and triumphs—He has been my strength, my refuge, and my guide. My hope is that, in sharing my story, others may see the hand of God in their own lives, guiding them, loving them, and walking beside them in every season.
P.S. Special thanks to Lisa Taylor, who interviewed her mother and put this together on YouTube. You can watch the interview video at this link: https://youtu.be/ri07hL63V3w.
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