For as long as I can remember, the idea of spending a month in the islands before retirement was nothing short of a dream—a distant aspiration that felt completely out of reach. Finally, that dream became a reality as I spent a month living on a sailboat, immersing myself in the beauty of the islands and the warmth of its people. What I found there was not just a picturesque getaway, but a profound lesson in gratitude, resilience, and the power of kindness.

In a world where it's easy to become consumed by the daily grind and lose sight of the bigger picture, this month-long adventure served as a powerful reminder of the importance of appreciating the simple things in life.

It was an amazing feeling to realize that I was living out a long-held dream and also celebrating the accomplishment of navigating a boat from Rhode Island to the Bahamas. But what truly left a lasting impression on me was the resilience and optimism displayed by the locals. Resources are scarce and they are still rebuilding from the devastation left by Dorian. I saw homes half-destroyed with families still living in them, yet they all had smiles on their faces—a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always the possibility of joy and happiness.

I was met with overwhelming kindness and generosity from the people I encountered, from the locals to the fellow sailors passing through. Whether it was a smile and a wave from a local, or a helping hand from a neighboring boat, there was an abundance of kindness that filled the air with positivity.

It's easy to get caught up in our own struggles and hardships, but seeing others who have faced far greater challenges, and yet still find joy in the simple things was a humbling reminder of how much we truly have to be grateful for.

As I returned home, I carried with me not just memories of turquoise water and white sandy beaches, but a reminder to continue to find joy in the simple things. And I was reminded once again that kindness matters – that small acts of compassion and understanding, no matter what you are personally going through, can make all the difference to somebody else's day.