My grandparents collected beach glass. It’s what old people do for lack of purpose, thought my late-twenties self. (Though, to be fair, I did envy their shark’s teeth collection.)

Over time, I realized their glass gathering was an evening unwind after their work was finished. They spent their days volunteering, praying for church and family matters, learning new skills, and serving on boards. It turns out walking six miles of beach with a friend is a sweet way to share life’s journey. 

Meanwhile, I’m no longer in my twenties and have come to appreciate the glass bits we find on our own daily walks. Smoothed and nuanced, they’re gemlike highlights of their purpose-driven former selves.