Lately, my mind has taken me back to people and places I knew that are no more. I think about my grandparents’ houses on Dee Road and Alcy Road where I spent so much of my childhood.

Part of me would give anything to be able to go back– even if only for a moment– and relive those memories, take in the scents, and see the faces.

Part of me is thankful that I have these memories to cherish and that these people and places were part of shaping me into who I am and who I am becoming.

Truly, I’m grateful it happened. And yes, it all was grace.