- Helen J
- May 29
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 3
During one of my transformational trips, I met Cris — one of those connections that feels orchestrated by the universe. A meeting full of meaning, exchange, and inspiration. It was there, in Arraial d’Ajuda, that I realized how real stories have the power to ignite something within us.
Cris deeply inspired me to continue my personal project: writing this blog and creating a YouTube podcast featuring people who, like her, are navigating the journey of self-discovery and finding the courage to do what they truly love.
She began our conversation with serenity and a sparkle in her eyes, saying: “Our meeting was an exchange of experiences written in the stars.”
And that’s where the magic began.
A Journey Back to Her Roots
For nearly 30 years, Cris would frequently vacation in Arraial d’Ajuda. Even before moving abroad, this little town was already a soul refuge. After living in Europe for years, she returned to Brazil during the pandemic — a major turning point in her life. She felt it was time to reconnect with her roots, and she followed her heart to Arraial, where, in her words, “she felt welcomed by the land and its people.”
She went through many trials. Despite the hardships — especially the challenges of a still very patriarchal society — she grew stronger. She overcame fears, matured, and today she is certain: Everything happens exactly the way it’s meant to.
The Mission to Be Who You Are
Cris’s mission is deeply connected to the commitment to self-knowledge. It wasn’t a quick or magical discovery — but rather a daily process of opening up to life, to experiences, and to the people around her.
“There is no little letter that tells you how to find your mission. Discovering yourself is, in itself, the mission.” This quote from Cris echoed in me. It reminded me that the way home is often the path inward.
Faith, Love, and Community
Raised by her grandmother — a woman of great faith who woke up every morning to pray for the happiness of friends and family — Cris carries this strength as her essence. “My faith defines me. It’s the foundation of my life.”
And more than that, to Cris, love is everything.“Love gives life meaning. It reshapes our experiences. We need each other more than we realize. Nothing is by chance. Every person who crosses our path carries a lesson, a message, a light.”
She believes that community makes our journey lighter. There’s always someone with something valuable to share. These encounters are part of a greater plan.
Nature as an Extension of the Soul
Cris has a deep connection with nature. She talks to birds, hugs trees, feels the earth’s energy. “Nature represents a part of me. I am part of it.”
This bond with the natural world strengthens her faith, love, and mission.
If Today Were Her Last Day
At the end of our conversation, I asked: “If today were your last day, what message would you leave for the world?”
She replied from the heart:
“Everything is exactly as it should be. Especially for those who are going through struggles and don’t see meaning in what they’re experiencing. With time, patience, and faith, we come to understand that everything is just right. I’d like to be remembered as the Cris who loves to hug, who says good morning to people, and who celebrates life — who believes in love and lives with faith.”
Conclusion
Meeting Cris was more than inspiring. It was a living reminder that we are all in constant transformation, and that our purpose blooms when we have the courage to be ourselves, to love, to believe, and to connect with others and with nature.
May this story inspire you to follow your heart, even when the path feels uncertain. After all, as Cris says:“Everything happens the way it’s meant to.”
If you enjoyed this story and want to hear more conversations with inspiring people like Cris, stay tuned to our YouTube channel and the next posts here on the FlowMundi blog.
Let life flow.