A Gift

The Goodness of Life

“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.” —Nahum 1:7

Years ago, we dedicated our first “good-centric” issue—an edition celebrating the goodness of life—and it has since become a cherished annual tradition. In a world where division too often takes center stage, the need to spotlight kindness and light has never been greater. Sharing stories of hope and humanity from near and far remains both our privilege and our purpose. It is, in every sense, a gift.

Life’s ebb and flow shapes us through seasons both radiant and difficult. Over time, those seasons forge depth, humility, and grace. I learned that firsthand while living life in the fast lane, chasing dreams and success. The hustle was relentless—at times too much even for me—and it demanded sacrifice. Yet from those years came perspective, and, ultimately, peace.

Every now and then, life offers the rare gift of standing at a crossroads—looking back with gratitude while leaning forward with anticipation. One such full-circle moment arrived recently as I watched The Bear, Hulu’s acclaimed series. In the Season 3 finale, “Forever,” I was astonished to see a familiar face—Kevin Boehm—sharing the screen with Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) and Chef Wylie Dufresne, as they reflected on the trials of the restaurant world. Kevin wasn’t playing a role; he was simply being himself—the cofounder of Chicago’s award-winning Boka Restaurant Group. Over the years, I had caught glimpses of his growing success, but seeing him there, so fully in his element, I knew his star had truly risen.

Months later, Kevin reached out. He had written his autobiography, The Bottomless Cup, published by Abrams Press, and wondered if VIE might review it ahead of its release. I replied that we could do one better—he could join me in person on VIE Speaks, our podcast, and we’d feature him on the cover of this very issue. Nearly thirty years had passed since our paths last crossed along Scenic Highway 30-A in South Walton, Florida—back when it was a quiet coastal stretch, not yet the internationally celebrated haven it has become. Even then, the area pulsed with creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and a sense of community that continues to define it today.

As the debonair and handsome cover guy of this “Goodness Issue,” we’re thrilled to share Kevin’s story—a shining example of how talent, grit, and grace can forge lasting success, and how leading by example uplifts everyone around you.

Within these pages, you’ll find a collection of stories—each a gem of goodness, truth, and inspiration. One standout, “The Alpha and Omega” by Franco Grimaldi, tells the story of artist Diego Urioste Bedregal’s miraculous healing and spiritual awakening that transformed his art and his life. His journey reminds us that beauty can rise from ashes and that faith can turn pain into purpose.

May this issue encourage you to seek, celebrate, and share the good that still surrounds us.

To Life!

—Lisa Marie Burwell

CEO/Editor-in-Chief/Creative Director

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