On August 13, 2026, I traveled to Southern California for work to give the keynote address at a women’s conference at Soboba Casino Resort. During the trip, my husband surprised me with this beautiful Compass necklace, making an already meaningful journey even more special.
But this trip became about much more than work or a piece of jewelry. While we were here, I had the privilege of witnessing my husband reconnect with his aunt, who is 81 years young. She is his last living connection to his mother, making their time together incredibly precious.
Watching them visit, share memories, and simply be together reminded me how important it is to cherish the people who connect us to where we come from. As Indigenous people, our elders carry so much—family stories, memories, history, and pieces of those who have gone before us.
Now, when I wear this necklace, I won’t only remember receiving a beautiful gift from my husband before giving a keynote speech. I will remember Southern California, an 81-year-old aunt, family, love, reconnection, and the reminder that sometimes the most meaningful gifts are the memories attached to them.
This necklace found its way to me during a journey that reminded me to always honor where we come from and cherish the people who still carry our stories.
