fall trees, Finding the Gift, Angela Howell, landscape

A few days ago, I received a private message from someone who purchased my new book, Finding the Gift: Daily Meditations for Mindfulness. I was just floored and with permission, have to share and comment. To protect anonymity, I will change certain details.

Reader writes, “I ordered your book. I made it through the acknowledgments and the introduction, read the first two entries and then I got busy… So yesterday I was

[taking a road trip] and found myself wandering in thought about my daughter’s recent [troubles] … blah blah blah. As I realized I wasn’t being “present,” I remembered your first two journal entries where you find gifts that are there, if you look for them.

I looked out the window and saw the most beautiful grave yard to the right. As I was pondering this breathtaking sight, [my husband] said, “Here is your favorite place!” I looked up and on the curve of the road, I saw the unique store front that I refer to as “Whistle Stop” (from the movie Fried Green Tomatoes). It’s so rustic and quaint, but old and dilapidated as well. We kept driving and I looked to my right on the next curve to see if the gray-haired lady was out in her overalls pulling weeds from her lovely garden that winds around her house, just fifty yards from the road. Like a landmark I can count on, she was there as always, whenever we drive by.

I’m assuming I found the gift…

Time is all we have, there will be many bends in the road, so do what you love! We all end up in the same spot (at the end of this physical life), so make the most of every moment.

I felt this sense of relief! I said to myself that it’s okay if [my daughter has to go through these challenges]. This is her journey. She’s not all worked up, nor should I be. Things happen for a reason, so live life in the present and enjoy the ride! Thank you, I look forward to reading your book.”

My eyes were full of tears when I finished reading this lovely message. I couldn’t have said it better myself! Ten years ago, I began to capture profound insights, as they were revealed to me. Over the years, I’ve filled up hand-written journals with these lessons that have been so eye-opening. Receiving this feedback is a surreal moment. To think that other people’s lives will now be impacted by my “little” book is almost overwhelming. I am humbled and grateful beyond words to have touched another life. I can’t think of any higher fulfillment on this earth!

As usual, when we gift a gift, we get so much more in return. Thank you, and “Bravo!” dear reader, for Finding the Gift, and in turn, touching my heart so deeply. Cheers to us all on this incredible journey of life. We’re in it together!

P.S. If you have a Finding the Gift story, I want to hear it and so does the rest of our FTG community! Please send me a message. And if you appreciated what this reader had to say, please tell her. She is a member of FTG Friends and will see your message and I’m sure she would enjoy knowing she also touched a life.

Not an FTG member? Look for the orange box to the right and sign up! I’ll send you a free eBook immediately, Ten Secrets to Finding the Gift!