Last week, I spent time in the Outer Banks for a little family reunion. It was lovely! There’s something about the ocean that makes seeing family feel even more special.

But one of my favorite parts of the trip wasn’t a big gathering or a group activity. It was the quiet, early-morning walks on the beach with my beloved aunt.

Every morning, we’d wake up before the rest of the house, sip coffee together, and watch the sunrise paint the sky. Afterward, we’d grab a quick bite, lace up our walking shoes, and head down the beach.

As we walked, the waves teased us, rushing up unexpectedly and soaking our feet. I’d skedaddle out of the way, laughing, but my aunt kept walking as if nothing had happened, water sloshing around her shoes.

“Aren’t you uncomfortable?” I asked, thinking surely she’d want to turn back for dry socks and fresh shoes.  She shook her head and smiled. “Wet feet don’t bother me,” she said. “I’d rather keep walking—with you.”

Her response stayed with me, and not just because I appreciated her company. It struck me as a beautiful life lesson.

The ebb and flow of the tides are like the ups and downs of life. I’ve spent plenty of time trying to dodge the uncomfortable parts—sidestepping sadness, avoiding challenges, or trying not to “get my feet wet.” But my aunt showed me there’s more to life than staying dry. She embraced the moment, wet shoes and all, because what mattered most was being together.

She reminded me to stop worrying so much about discomfort and instead focus on what really matters: the people we love and the time we have with them.

I’m going to try to carry that lesson forward. I’ll say “yes” more often when a friend or family member asks me to spend time with them, even if it’s inconvenient—or messy. 

I won’t even mind if my feet get wet.

-Peni