08/06/2026
Caught in a Rock Slide! There are moments in life when the road ahead changes in an instant.
Last November, my son Cole and I were on our way to Republic, Washington, where I had been asked to sing and play piano at my cousin Ryan's memorial service. What should have been a simple drive became something neither of us could have imagined.
In the darkness of night around 10 pm, we were caught in a rock slide.
Within moments, two tires were blown, 2 wheels were sliced through, our windshield was cracked, and our car was badly damaged. We found ourselves stranded on the side of a mountain with no cell service, in the middle of a storm, wondering what would happen next.
The small towns around us were all without power.
As frightening as that night was, it became a reminder of something I often forget when life feels uncertain... God is always at work, even when I can't see the whole picture (or see the rocks tumbling down the side of a cliff towards us).
God didn't remove every obstacle.
Instead, He met us through people.
A stranger who shared her phone. A kind police officer. Mechanics who went far beyond what was expected. Family who drove hours to find the parts we needed and bought them for us. Friends who prayed.
And my son, who quietly became my strength always encouraging me, protecting, and reminding me to laugh when it would have been easier to lose heart.
I've always told my sons to look for humor and hope in every situation.
They both have quick wit, dark humor and endless hope when it comes to life. I couldn't be more grateful!
When Cole and I finally arrived to Republic, Washington, I had the privilege of honoring my cousin, Ryan, through music at his memorial service. It wasn't a flawless performance, but I was reminded that God has never asked for perfection. He simply asks us to be faithful with what we have to offer.
As I looked around that little country church filled with grieving hearts, I was overwhelmed by the love of family, friends, and community.
In the midst of profound loss, I saw glimpses of God's kindness everywhere.
Sometimes, His miracles don't look like the road suddenly becoming smooth.
Sometimes they look like enough grace for the next mile.
Enough strength for today.
Enough people placed in our path to remind us that we were never walking alone.
This journey reminded me that grief and gratitude can exist together.
That tears are not a sign of weak faith, but they are often evidence of deep love.
And that even when life feels interrupted by storms, God's faithfulness remains constant.
I returned home with more than memories. I'm carrying a renewed trust that God is present in the unexpected, that He provides in ways we could never orchestrate ourselves, and that His love is often revealed through the hands and hearts of others.
"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you." ~Deuteronomy 31:8
I'm so thankful He was with us every mile of the journey. And I know God is with you on your journey, as well.♡
Love, Linnéa
The Begin Within Hope Collective
