It was my senior year of high school and I had slammed down the phone after arguing with my girlfriend. I was steamed so I headed out to the large field next to our property in Afton. I spent a lot of time walking in that field, thinking and praying. It was a quiet place for me.

As I was walking I noticed a hot air balloon over the field. This wasn't unusual, we were close to the St. Croix River and saw a lot of balloons glide by on summer evenings. This one was right overhead and I heard the pilot call down asking me to grab the rope to help pull him down. I was happy to help. When he landed, he asked if I wanted a ride. Of course! I climbed in and up we went! It wasn't much of a trip; just up and down but what a view when you're about 100 feet in the air.

After helping him pack up, I walked home with a spring in my step having forgotten my earlier phone call.

[1 Peter 5:6-7] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.