Shelley: “Do you feel like you have encountered death seven times?”
Toby: “I was counting the number of times that I came close. The first big one was when I had that motorcycle racing accident at Fort Sumner. Then there were the three events in Vietnam, and then there was the lightning strike.”
Shelley: “That’s five.”
Toby: “There was that event in Serbo Croatia during the war, but I don’t feel like that was a near-death experience. It was more of a sticky wicket.”
(Some thug holding a gun to his head to stop him from asking questions.)
“So, I’d say 5 of the 7.”
Shelley: “Six.”
Toby: “What? Which one?”
Shelley: “The heart attack.”
Toby: “Oh, yeah.”
In this week’s episode of Our Story Your Story, titled “Unveiling Destiny & Embracing Romance,” authors and hosts, Shelley Carney and Toby Younis, delve deep into the enthralling Chapters 25 and 26 of their captivating story, “A Gypsy’s Kiss.”
Watch the video or download the podcast episode.
Miguel’s journey takes an unexpected turn as he lands in the vibrant city of New Orleans, where the spirited Mardi Gras celebrations on Bourbon Street greet him. Amidst the revelry, he encounters the enigmatic Mariah, setting the stage for a night of intrigue and deeper connection.
As the scene unfolds, Mariah reveals her intent to journey to Algiers, and Miguel, not wanting to be separated, decides to accompany her on this mysterious venture. Their path leads them to the river’s edge, prompting questions of how to cross over to the other side. A fortuitous encounter with a water taxi and its gruff captain provides the solution they seek.
Amidst the adventure and romance, the narrative offers introspective insights into destiny, independence, and the importance of reflecting on one’s purpose. Destiny intertwines with their experiences as they encounter a gypsy fortune teller, unveiling shocking revelations and prophecies of great things to come.
Shelley and Toby adeptly analyze the themes of adventure, destiny, and crossing boundaries woven into the story, exploring how the symbolic act of crossing the river represents a transition into a new destiny.
They discuss the excitement and anticipation that come with embracing the unknown and share recent experiences that shed light on similar encounters from their own lives.
As always, “Our Story Your Story” offers a thought-provoking episode filled with adventure, romance, and profound insights into the human experience.
The act of crossing the Mississippi River holds profound metaphorical significance in Miguel’s journey from youth to adulthood, signifying the embrace of an uncertain destiny.
Picture the expanse of the dark, rushing river as a symbolic gateway, representing the mysteries of the future.
“The water taxi ride and the encounter with the gypsy fortune teller highlight the crossing of physical and cultural boundaries. I thought that was a good visual representation of crossing over from childhood to manhood and crossing over from being Toby Michael to Miguel, the adventurer. He is taking that last step in the journey. You made it to Mardi Gras, but now let’s go a step further.”
— Shelley Carney
As they step onto the water taxi and embark on a new chapter of their journey, Miguel and Mariah exemplify the power of crossing boundaries and connecting with different cultures.
“Up until this point, the young man from Santa Fe, New Mexico had lived a life of relative ease in Hispanic culture. Crossing the river was the crossing into a completely new destiny.”
— Toby Younis
Miguel is acknowledging and embracing the unpredictability of adulthood, navigating its twists and turns much like maneuvering a river’s currents.
“I think you should treat yourself every once in a while to thinking about: what is my destiny? Why am I here, and where am I going? Because it gives you the opportunity to consider the possibilities.”
— Toby Younis
Miguel’s eagerness to cross signifies a deep desire to leave behind the familiar, embracing the mysteries and adventures that lie beyond.
A simple trip can be transformed into a grand adventure by the people we encounter along the way and the interactions that unfold.
It’s often the unexpected conversations, chance meetings, and shared experiences with fellow travelers or locals that infuse the journey with a sense of excitement and discovery.
“Each time Miguel stops it’s not just about a place that he’s stopping. It’s about the people that he’s meeting. The people bring out the adventure, the relationship, and the growth that’s happening. There wouldn’t be any excitement or adventure if there weren’t people involved; it would just be a trip.”
— Shelley Carney
These encounters inject spontaneity and unpredictability into the itinerary, opening doors to novel perspectives and cultural insights.
Each chance meeting shapes the narrative of the trip and often provides the exciting details of the stories we eagerly share upon our return.
The people we meet, and the connections we forge, transform a trip into an adventure that lingers in our hearts and memories.
We enter the tent. Candles light the space all around. Inside, there is a round table with two chairs. A frail, grandmotherly-looking woman with a red silk scarf tied around her head and a white, billowy blouse that covers her arms all the way down to her wrists where her tiny hands poke out, sits in one of the chairs.
A Gypsy’s Kiss: A Treasure Hunt Adventure, Chapter 26
Recognizing the significance of embracing adventures and the encounters that come with them is a fundamental aspect of shaping our destinies.
“I’ve been looking at my own journey thinking about how this has been a hard year. A lot of times I’ve said, I just want it to be over. I just want to move on. But, there’s learning and growth in every experience. I shouldn’t wish for it to be over so quickly and miss out on the opportunity to learn something or to grow from it because I probably need that growth and learning for the days ahead.”
— Shelley Carney
Every adventure, every unexpected meeting, carries the potential to shape our understanding of ourselves and the world we live in.
Miguel’s encounter with Mariah stands as a perfect illustration of this principle.
Their chance meeting amid the vibrant atmosphere of Mardi Gras marked a turning point, sparking a transformative journey.
It served as the catalyst for an unforgettable experience, one that challenged Miguel’s perspective, broadened his horizons, and ultimately left an indelible mark on his destiny.
“I always wondered, what did she think about our adventure? We never got to have the conversation afterward. It was two young people trying to be a little bit more adult than their age. A lot happened that night that most youthful people in that age group will never experience.”
— Toby Younis
Their shared adventure vividly showcased the beauty of unexpected connections and the substantial impact they can have in molding the trajectory of our lives.
The allure of learning our destiny lies in the prospect of gaining insights that can guide our planning and decision-making.
Knowing what destiny holds can empower us with a foresight that helps shape our paths more deliberately.
It’s like having a map for an uncharted journey, providing a sense of direction and pointing out potential roadblocks.
Armed with this knowledge, we can strategize, make informed choices, and align our actions with our intended destiny.
It helps us anticipate challenges, seize opportunities, and navigate the twists and turns of life with a sense of purpose.
However, it’s essential to remember that destiny is not fixed, but a blend of choice and chance.
“I feel like I have a destiny, and I think everyone should feel like they have destinies. Fate will help you get there, but it’s not going to help you if you don’t envision your destiny, where you’re going, and what you’re going to accomplish with the remainder of your life.”
— Toby Younis
It’s the dynamic interplay between our actions and the unknown that ultimately forges our unique journey.
The revelations that the gypsy fortune teller unveiled held an enigmatic allure, leaving Miguel in deep contemplation.
She tells Mariah that I have a “curious mind” and “big heart,” and that my destiny is for great things.
A Gypsy’s Kiss: A Treasure Hunt Adventure, Chapter 26
The promise of adventure breathed excitement into his veins, igniting the desire for the thrilling and the unknown.
Moreover, the acknowledgment of having a big heart hinted at the journey of self-discovery that lay ahead.
It echoed the importance of compassion, empathy, and embracing life with an open heart.
I nod, accepting the thanks and hoping some of what she predicted for me comes true. Especially the adventure part of it. But, definitely not the “Death will come for you seven times” part.
A Gypsy’s Kiss: A Treasure Hunt Adventure, Chapter 26
Intriguingly, the prophecy regarding facing death seven times before the final encounter on the eighth meeting added a layer of mystique to Miguel’s destiny. It made him ponder the twists and turns that fate had in store, urging him to question the purpose of his life and the courage it would take to face the looming challenges.
“I kept trying to keep the promise of what the gypsy had said, which is you’re going to lead a life full of romance and adventure. When you’re told that, you don’t think of it as like, well, okay. That’s good. I hope it happens. You work to make it happen.”
— Toby Younis
The gypsy’s words lingered, prompting Miguel to navigate his path with a newfound awareness of the adventure that awaited and the resilience required to confront the mysteries of his destiny.
The encounters with the people we meet during our journeys can effortlessly transform a simple expedition into an exhilarating adventure.
Each interaction holds the potential to shape our perspective, challenge our assumptions, and broaden our horizons.
We discover the power of forging connections with those who share common goals or possess diverse insights.
These connections often lead to lasting friendships, acting as guiding stars on our very own hero’s journey.
“Brian did provide a lot of information about the birds, but then later when I was talking to him, I found that I had so much in common with him. That enhanced my whole trip, my whole experience.”
— Shelley Carney
These newfound companions impart wisdom, lend support during challenging times, and inspire us to venture further, encouraging growth and nurturing a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit.
The impact of these connections reverberates long after the journey ends, reminding us of the transformative potential of human bonds in our ongoing quest for self-discovery and adventure.
“It wouldn’t be a hero’s journey if it was all by the hero’s self. If it was a hero having an adventure without anyone else supporting him, fighting him, arguing with him, or giving him advice, it’s not a hero’s journey.”
— Toby Younis
As Miguel achieves his original goal of reaching New Orleans in time for Mardi Gras, and then continues onward, we encounter the archetypal roles that shape every hero’s journey.
This reminds us that no adventure is complete without the presence of mentors, allies, and antagonists.
A religious upbringing often acts as a catalyst for curiosity about mysticism and cultural elements.
These inquiries may spark an interest in the unseen and the mystical experiences tied to faith.
Moreover, exposure to various religious and cultural practices cultivates an appreciation for the diversity of human beliefs and rituals.
The desire to understand and connect with these diverse cultural elements arises from an inherent curiosity, instilled during one’s religious upbringing, fostering an open-minded approach to spirituality and a broader understanding of the world’s intricate and interwoven beliefs.
On the doorway of the tent hangs a sign. In a very elegant, mysterious calligraphic font it reads, “Gypsy Queen – Fortune Teller.” I know what to expect because my mother is a “fortune teller” of sorts. Her friends sometimes come over in the evening to drink wine and my mother will read the Tarot cards for them. They often try to give her money, but she never accepts it, explaining that it would be “wrong” to do so.
A Gypsy’s Kiss: A Treasure Hunt Adventure, Chapter 26
The association of tarot with Catholicism holds a unique and intriguing connection, especially for someone like Miguel, who was raised in the Catholic faith by a mother who read tarot cards as an extension of her beliefs.
Although on the surface tarot might seem unrelated to Catholicism, there are underlying ties.
“Tarot can be interpreted from a very religious perspective. It can be viewed as spiritual. It always was when she presented it. It was always religious in the sense that she would say, ‘Here’s this card and it represents this. So, you’re going to have to pray.’ To me, growing up and watching, it never struck me as exclusive of religion, of Catholicism. It always seemed to be tied into it somehow.”
— Toby Younis
Tarot, often considered a mystical practice, delves into the realm of symbolism, archetypes, and exploring the unknown—elements that resonate with aspects of Catholic teachings, rituals, and the symbolic nature of religious practices.
For Miguel, witnessing his mother intertwine these practices could have created a sense of harmonious coexistence between the mystical and the spiritual.
It may have allowed him to perceive tarot and fortune telling not as contradictory but as a different lens through which one can approach faith, fostering a broader understanding of spirituality and the significance of symbolism in guiding one’s path.
Events like Mardi Gras and carnivals possess an enchanting quality, often leading to unexpected and romantic moments that bring young people together.
The lively ambiance, vibrant colors, and carefree atmosphere act as a catalyst, fostering connections and sparking the magic of youth.
Amidst the festivities, Mariah’s and Miguel’s encounter, filled with spontaneity and youthful energy, stands as a prime example.
The unexpected passionate kiss from Mariah electrifies the air, leaving Miguel in a whirlwind of emotions and contemplation.
We take a few steps and stop between tents in the semi-darkness. Mariah turns to me, grabs me by the collar, and gives me the second, but much more delightful, French kiss of my night. This kiss is longer, more passionate, more gratefully received and reciprocated. When she lets go, without breaking eye contact, I reach to take her hand, brush a kiss across her fingers, and gently ask, “What was all that about?”
A Gypsy’s Kiss: A Treasure Hunt Adventure, Chapter 26
It is a moment that transcends the ordinary, making him question the mysteries and possibilities that lie ahead in the labyrinth of life and love.
This unexpected gesture acts as a catalyst, propelling the story forward and setting the stage for the adventures and complexities that await the young travelers on their journey.
In this compelling episode of “Our Story Your Story,” the key themes of embracing adventure, uncovering destiny, and the significance of connections and shared experiences are masterfully woven into the narrative.
The story revolves around Miguel’s journey, representing the universal adventure of life itself.
Through encounters and unexpected events, the theme of embracing adventure shines bright.
Miguel’s readiness to cross the river and explore the unknown mirrors the innate human desire to step into the unpredictable, signifying the courage required to embrace life’s adventures.
Simultaneously, the theme of uncovering destiny is intricately explored through the enigmatic prophecies of the Gypsy Fortune Teller.
Miguel grapples with the revelation of facing death seven times, prompting introspection on destiny, purpose, and the role of choice in shaping one’s fate.
Additionally, the narrative emphasizes the profound theme of the significance of connections and shared experiences.
The encounters Miguel has, especially with Mariah, showcase the power of human bonds in transforming a journey into an unforgettable adventure.
It underscores the idea that our connections, interactions, and shared moments with others are an essential part of understanding our own unique hero’s journey in this vast and mysterious world.
As you soak in the tale of Miguel’s journey and the intricate themes discussed, take a moment to reflect on your path.
Embrace the unknown with an open heart and a curious mind.
Let the echoes of adventure and destiny resonate within you.
Here are three actionable steps you can take this week to infuse these ideas into your journey:
Challenge yourself to explore something new this week.
It could be a hobby, a book, a recipe, or even a different route during your walk.
Embrace the uncertainty and relish the adventure that comes with trying something unfamiliar.
Reach out to a friend or family member and reminisce about a memorable experience you’ve shared.
Exchange stories and find joy in the connections that shaped those moments.
This act of shared reflection deepens bonds and allows you to appreciate the power of connections in your journey.
Set aside some quiet time to reflect on your life’s journey.
Ponder your goals, aspirations, and the twists and turns that have shaped your story so far.
Consider writing down your thoughts or creating a vision board to visually represent your path ahead.
Embrace the adventure that life unfolds, uncover the layers of your destiny, and treasure the connections and experiences that mold your unique journey.
In the tapestry of life, every thread holds a story, and it’s up to us to weave it with courage, wisdom, and an open heart.
Tune in to this episode of Our Story Your Story, where adventure and romance await, accompanied by insightful discussions that inspire and resonate.
Join us in embracing the journey of life, one story at a time.