During one of those hot and humid spells last summer, my 36-year-old son shared about an evening trip he and his significant other had taken to the beach.

I don’t think I’m alone in thinking that the “normal” stresses of life have increased significantly in the past few years. Whether due to societal, financial, physical, relational, political factors or weather…

When my mother was nearing the end of her life, Hospice gave her a book outlining what to expect.

How much does a bird sing? As much as it can.

How high does an eagle soar? As high as it can.

How big does a tree grow? As big as it can.

My son called the other day to see how I was doing.

“Not bad for a middle-aged woman,” I replied.

“I like the way you think, Mom.”

I don't know about you, but I think the Universe is forever giving us "signs;" signs that we are making the right choice, signs that all is fundamentally well, reassurance that we are on the right path.

Several years ago, the TV show 60 Minutes featured a 12-year-old musical prodigy named Alma. A child virtuoso on both piano and violin, she was also an accomplished composer likened to Mozart.