It can be hard to find hope these days.The stories we read about in the headlines can often be difficult to bear. We have found some ways to come together but there may still be an ache, hurt, loss, and loneliness in situations we experience.

I believe in times like this we need to hear from each other. We need to find a way to reconnect into the social structures that may have disappeared due to remote work and efficiencies.

I can remember as a young child, I would travel to Indiana with my parents to visit my grandparents in their small town of Martinsville, Indiana. My grandfather owned an appliance store in the heart of downtown. During lunch he would often take me to the local diner as his special guest. As I sat in that worn-out booth, I had a front row seat into the world of the men who were gathering for lunch and community.

It seemed there was some sacred passing of times and ritual happening. listening to those who were resilient, often older who had gone before me.

I needed that sort of perspective from those at the diner who had been through tough times and endured…listening to those who were resilient, often older who had gone before me.

I worry we are losing that.

What stories have I been through in my own life that I could share with others? What stories have you heard lately to inspire you and encourage you in your journey through these times from other men and mentors? Those who have been shaped by difficult circumstances. Men who have met challenges and overcome. Endured and been resilient.

We want to share a few stories this about unique men that we know. One, a retired therapist and fly-fishing friend from my days in Colorado. And, another friend of mine, an arborist with a seminary degree from North Carolina.

Both men I consider my close friends who have taught me through their life and their stories how to prevail. They have been through a lot like most of us. And yet, it was also in nature, in the places like rivers and up in the trees where they have found that connection and place to rediscover and come into more of who they are.

As we journey through these times, may you look for those stories around you. Seek them in your family, at the coffee shop or local gathering. We do need one another along with places to connect and share our stories.

Look for these two videos being released in the next few weeks…

Our vision is to tell more of these stories. We hope you can help us find a few of your own and share them. We could all use some perspective and learn from connecting with those around us.

-XAN HOOD,  Founder of Buffalo Jackson