Publisher Letter
There is a quiet joy—and a deep honor—in serving others.
Not because it’s easy or convenient, but because when we lean
into it with a willing heart, something sacred happens: We
become more generous, more grateful, more grounded.
Recently, my husband and I were given an unexpected op
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portunity to serve in a way we never saw coming. We found
ourselves with full-time care of our grandchildren—a spir
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ited 4-year-old and an energetic 2-year-old. To say this was
unplanned would be an understatement. As someone man
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aging two businesses and juggling deadlines, meetings and a
calendar that rarely leaves room to breathe, my first emotion was frustration. “This wasn’t on
the schedule,” I told myself. “How am I supposed to manage everything?”
But then something shifted. I felt an overwhelming conviction to release all my other re
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sponsibilities—at least for a time—and focus fully on these two precious souls. The sense
of peace that followed that decision surprised me. What felt like an inconvenience became
a divine appointment.
In those weeks, my husband and I didn’t just watch our grandchildren—we poured into
them. We shared meals, stories and laughter. We taught them how to water plants, slow
down to listen to and respect nature, and find joy in the ordinary. We gave them something
far more valuable than any toy or screen could ever offer: our time, our presence, our love.
It made me reflect on how easily we can confuse productivity with purpose. We chase dead
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lines, success and visibility—but the heart of service is often found in the hidden, quiet places
when we pause our plans so that someone else can feel prioritized.
I am grateful for the reminder that the true richness of life doesn’t always come from what we
plan but from how we respond to what we didn’t plan. When something unexpectedly ends
up on your plate, how do you react? With resentment—or with reverence?
There is joy in serving others—not just when it’s neat and tidy but especially when it stretches
us. Because service done with a positive spirit has a way of healing everyone involved.
As we move through this season, I invite you to look at your own life and ask: What unex
-pected opportunity might be a hidden gift in disguise? And how can it be approached with
gratitude, not just obligation?
Let’s continue to serve with full hearts—not because we have to, but because it reminds us of
what matters most. In helping others, we often rediscover ourselves.
With gratitude and joy,
Ms. Tracy
Ms. Tracy
