This reflection was written by my dear friend and nearly three-decade-long soul sister, Rose Oduho (pictured above in the denim dress), following Cultivate: Creativity & Connection — a Seeds of Exchange gathering that took place on April 26, 2025.

Our afternoon together was filled with story, soul, and sacred connection — a space to slow down, listen deeply, and remember we’re not alone in our journeys. Rose’s words below capture the heart of what unfolded that day: the beauty of gathering, the power of storytelling, and the healing that comes when we make space to truly see and be seen.

May her reflections stir something in you — an invitation to reconnect with your own voice, your community, and the stories only you can tell. xo, -Sarah Davison-Tracy, founder, Seeds of Exchange

Thank you to Amy K Wright Photography for the above photo and the jaw-dropping gallery of photos from the day!

It had been ages since we last had such a wonderful gathering with so many familiar faces. I felt deeply honored to be invited by my longtime friend, Sarah Davison-Tracy. Sarah is one of those rare souls you meet and instantly feel as though you’ve known each other since childhood. She has a heart of gold, and both she and her husband, Dr. Brandon, have truly embodied the meaning of American hospitality by opening their doors to people from all over the world.

That spirit of welcome was beautifully echoed by her mother-in-law, Ms. Davison — affectionately known to many as “Momma Sue.” Her incredible story left a lasting impression on me. I was reminded that true hospitality isn’t about elaborate planning, expensive entertainment, or perfect homes. It’s about sharing whatever little you have and making space for real conversation. Mom Sue reminded us that welcoming someone — even a stranger — is more about the love, time, and connection you offer than a perfectly set table or flawless house. It’s about opening your heart. And in doing so, living out the calling to love our neighbors.

The afternoon overflowed with beautiful stories and heartfelt reflections.

I was especially moved by Ryann Dominguez, a young woman who had faced unimaginable loss — losing both her brother and mother. Through her creativity, she found healing. Her art became a channel for transforming grief into something beautiful, and helped her rediscover community and meaning. Her resilience inspired me deeply.

I also appreciated Lisa Sharpe’s story — how she discovered purpose and joy by helping others declutter their homes and lives. She spoke about the emotional and physical burden of holding onto things we no longer need. Her words resonated with me. I realized I’ve been clinging to clothes I brought with me from Africa more than 30 years ago — clothes that no longer fit, but somehow held a grip on me. Listening to Lisa helped me see that freedom comes in letting go. I left feeling ready to donate, declutter, and reclaim space — and freedom — in my life.

Another story that stayed with me came from Polly Letofsky (founder of My Word Publishing) and Donna Mazzitelli (of Writing with Donna). These two amazing women shared their journeys of writing and self-publishing. They reminded us that every one of us has a story worth telling — and that we don’t need to wait for the perfect moment or have lots of money to begin. What we need is the courage to start, and the support of others to walk with us.

Their words stirred memories of a piece I once wrote about a walk with my daughter in Washington Park. Rereading it recently, I was struck by the beauty captured in such a simple moment. It made me want to write again — to dust off my old dream of telling the stories of my childhood in Africa, my college days in Canada, and my life here in the U.S. Because while memories fade, stories on paper remain. They inspire, connect, and live on. That night reignited that long-tucked-away dream, and I am so grateful.

The evening also brought moments of sacred vulnerability, as several women shared their experiences with cancer. As someone who has faced that battle — and who has lost a husband, a friend, a father to my child — their stories reminded me I am not alone. Even in loss, even in hardship, there is space for healing, gratitude, and hope. I found myself remembering the sweetness of what was, and choosing to hold onto that rather than comparison or sorrow.

This evening was more than a gathering — it was a sacred encounter. A time of joy, healing, energy, and deep upliftment. It reminded me of the beauty of human connection, the importance of sharing our stories, and the power of love and community.

I carry the lessons and love from that night with me — forever grateful.