The stories we love to remember bless us on countless levels. They represent and explain us. They entertain, educate, empower, and elevate us. They calm, center, challenge, and contextualize our lives. At times, they help us repent, self-correct, and promise to do better.

The personal stories we choose to share with others document both our common humanity and our amazing individuality. They let us remember, reflect, and reframe. Through stories, we’re able to time-travel. At their best, our stories connect us to the world as it was, is, and should be. More importantly, they cause us to reflect on who we have been, who we are, and who we can become. They connect us to God, faith, friends, and family. Ultimately, our stories define us.

Revisiting Life’s Oases: Soul-Soothing Stories may tell you more about the author than you ever wanted to know. Chances are you’ll smile, laugh, and maybe sympathize. You may even cry, wonder, disbelieve, or tell yourself, “Well, that explains a lot.” If so, mission accomplished.

Stories are gifts from God. If this set of stories encourages you to value and share your own heart with others, may God bless you for blessing them.