I recently discovered a small store in our hometown that specializes in customized gifts and keepsakes. I placed an order for a friend’s Christmas gift, and began communication with the owner, Christina.

Christina and I had spoken a handful of times about my order, and I soon realized that her business had a lot to offer the community. My volunteer role in a community event opened the door to professional business, as well. Christina’s cool, straightforward, and giving nature added value to our budding relationship that mixed personal and business.

Within a couple of weeks, she left a message that my Christmas gift order was ready for pick-up. I quickly sent her a message back and let her know that I’d be there within the hour.

As I readied myself to leave the house, I noticed a small section of the hibiscus bush was in bloom in my front yard. The deep fuchsia of the flower’s jagged petals framed the beautifully bright yellow centered stem and were accompanied by green leaves. 

I decided to pick a flower with intention of giving it to Christina. Mind you, the only interactions we had were in a professional capacity. I even thought to myself, “I hope she doesn’t think I’m weird for giving her a flower,” but I was being led by a force greater than myself to do it anyway. 

When I opened the door to her store, Blue Pineapple Trophy and Gifts, I was greeted by a different employee. I asked for Christina, and he motioned that she was near and working at the computer only a couple of feet away. I carefully leaned over the counter where I caught her in sight.

I humbly offered her the flower, “Christina, I don’t know why, but the universe told me to give you this flower.”  

Christina Ross with her hibiscus; her daughter, Jessie, pictured in the background

She slowly walked to me, held out her hand to receive my gift, and told me, “today would have been my daughter’s 19th birthday.” Then we began to cry together. Her daughter, Jessie, had tragically died in a car accident three years prior. 

We stood there, face-to-face exchanging eye contact and enhancing whatever connection had been made earlier in our relationship’s infancy. No words were needed. The power in the room was undeniable and I’ll never forget it and am grateful for the experience. 

In the end, I walked away with a deeper feeling of listening to what the universe is communicating. It’s important to listen to messages that are bigger than us. If you have faith and a relationship with God, you will find a higher meaning in this article. I know I sure do. 

***This article is dedicated to the Ross Family and their beautiful Babygirl, Jessie. Gone, but never forgotten***