I met John at a coffee shop. Well, at a lot of coffee shops. I wasn't working at the time so I spent a lot of time sipping my coffee slowly while applying for jobs. I sat next to him while he wrote or read the paper. I suggested the peppermint tea. He suggested the chocolate cookies to go with it.
John's a retired psychotherapist who's been writing a book. I'd ask him deep questions about faith and trauma. I was grappling with the idea of making sacrifices for my faith.
I had a rough year. I was paying off a lot of debt and struggling at work. I was about to take a trip to Croatia followed by a trip to see friends. I felt guilty for going on adventures and living my life. I felt like I should sacrifice more and do more for others.
John replied, "Hallie, you have to live a life to be able to lose one."
You need to live a life.
I see John time to time. He's always encouraging me and celebrating my wins. I see him talk to others and I hope they have the same special moments I've been given.