Ancestors

A Connection Beyond This Life

/ Christine Maynor / Leave a comment

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Melodies & Musings

My therapist and I were talking about our ancestors. I have always felt a strong connection to my third-great-grandmother, Amanda Barnes Smith. Her story is incredible because she went through so many hard trials, and as far as I know, she stayed strong through it all. I told my therapist about the strong connection I feel with Amanda. She told me that our ancestors are angels looking after us and helping us through our hard times. She said they can give us strength and guidance when we are struggling. Then I realized that is why I feel such a strong connection to Amanda. I think it’s because she is looking after me from above. As I thought this, I started to cry and I could feel her presence near me, telling me that she was looking down on me and helping me get through my hardest days. That was an incredible experience for me. It’s funny that I had felt so close to Amanda for many years but I didn’t realize before that moment why I felt so drawn to her and her story.

I have felt my maternal grandfather, who has passed away, helping me through difficult times as well. I was really close to him when I was growing up until he passed away in 2003. So it makes sense that he is looking down on me and helping me through my trials. After the experience I had today, I want to pay more attention to the impressions I receive that my ancestors and loved ones are helping me.

Read the older poem I wrote about Amanda Barnes Smith’s story here: https://faithcenteredinspiration.com/2026/01/21/refined-by-fire/

Watch the YouTube Short here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/muyoUvoJOPk

How have you felt the influence, love, or guidance of loved ones who have passed on during difficult times?

The Wisdom of Old Souls

/ Christine Maynor / Leave a comment

Thank you for subscribing-may these words bring a quiet moment of peace and reflection to your day.

My Daily Musings-October 6th, 2026

“Old roads, old dogs, old stories, and old souls still have something beautiful to teach a hurried world.”

For some reason, I have always been drawn to older people. I was close to all of my grandparents, but especially my maternal grandfather. I never wanted to leave after I visited him. I was always fascinated by his stories. I felt his great love for me every time I was with him. That’s probably why I was so close to him. I could feel his love for me.

Another good old soul I was close to was a neighbor who used to live across the street from me. His name was George Ford. Every time I visited him, I was fascinated by his stories and his life. His wife had died many years before, and even though he had family close by, I could tell that he was lonely. He was always very glad to have visitors. He had survived many serious health challenges. I could tell when he talked about his wife that he longed to be with her again. But he was content to be on this earth for as long as his Heavenly Father needed him to be.

I have always been fascinated by stories of my ancestors that have been passed down to me. Their courage and determination, in spite of their hard trials, helps me have greater faith when I’m going through a difficult time.

I think we can all learn a lot from these things as this quote tells us. I think sometimes we need to slow down and listen to those who are older than us. We can learn a lot from them and their experiences.

Is there an older person whose stories or wisdom have had an impact on your life? What is something you have learned from an older family member, friend, or neighbor?