It was just another Thursday, my designated call day, when I connected with someone who has been following Stray Reflections for years but has yet to become a paid member. What started as a simple conversation quickly evolved into a deep exploration of life’s most meaningful questions. We talked about work-life balance, childhood patterns that still shape us, and the complex relationship between financial success and spiritual fulfillment. How do we excel in all areas of life? Is it wrong to hold material and spiritual goals simultaneously? When is it time to release our ambition? We explored how we often get in our own way, realizing that moving forward requires leaving behind the version of ourselves that brought us here. Faith and belief entered the conversation naturally, as did the reminder that we are not alone on this journey, and that God is guiding us. The conversation had no set agenda, yet it flowed effortlessly, bringing connection and clarity for both of us. By the end, we discussed coaching and retreats, and he left with a renewed sense of direction. When we start to speak from the heart, doors open in ways we don’t anticipate. I was in the backyard with the door open. After the call ended, I came inside and saw Mom sitting on the edge of the couch. “You speak with such grace, your words full of wisdom,” she said softly. I froze for a moment, realizing my mother had just witnessed a part of my world she’d never seen before. It was the first real glimpse she had of what I do. Her voice was filled with admiration, and I could see she was deeply moved by what she heard. I walked over, sat next to her, and gave her a hug. Her love, her prayers, her silent support—all of it was reflected back to me in that moment. Then her tears came, and in them, I saw not just a reflection of what I’ve accomplished, but the sense of being truly seen—her recognition of who I’ve become. I’m now ten years into building Stray Reflections, yet I’ve rarely paused to appreciate the journey. The past year has been so hectic that I haven’t taken time to recognize the milestones. This moment with my mother felt like a celebration I hadn’t expected, but deeply needed.