Everyone Has a Story
Meet Hailey and Jonathan, family friends catching up and enjoying a night out in downtown Bentonville.
Walking downtown Bentonville on a Wednesday night, I wandered past local shops, admired the murals (which really are incredible), and watched people pass by on foot and in cars. That’s when I noticed two young people and immediately felt like they had a story to tell. So, a little awkwardly, I yelled out, “Hey! I have a question.” I had to shout it twice as I almost chickened out. Talking to strangers on a random night? Apparently yes. Everyone has a story, and I wanted to hear theirs.
Meet Jonathan Young and Hailey Allen. The two are family friends who both grew up in Northwest Arkansas and were home on Christmas break from college. Jonathan currently lives in Texas, while Hailey lives in Florida. Long distance friends brought back together for the holidays.
Downtown Bentonville, Arkansas
When I asked if they liked Bentonville, Jonathan was quick to answer. “I love Bentonville. I’m sure Hailey does too.”
“I grew up around this area,” Hailey added. “It’s my entire childhood.”
When asked about their favorite thing to do, Jonathan took the lead. He said he loves to drive with the windows down and blast his music as loud as possible.
“Anything rock and heavier,” he said when I asked what kind.
Trying to make a connection, I shared that one of my favorite songs from high school was Anthem of Our Dying Day by Story of the Year, pulling straight from my emo-era memories. I graduated in 2005, which felt like a lifetime ago compared to these two young adults just stepping into a new season of life.
Jonathan Young, a Northwest Arkansas native, is currently attending college in Texas.
When the conversation turned to the new year, Hailey said she wanted to get out more and make new friends. Jonathan paused and said, “That’s a good question. I have no idea. It could take a lot of turns.”
And he’s right. A new year opens the door to new horizons, and the possibilities can feel endless. The last year was a hard one for many of us, but a new year feels fresh, exciting, and full of opportunity. As college students standing on the edge of what comes next, Jonathan and Hailey were clearly feeling that sense of possibility.
Hailey Allen, a Northwest Arkansas native, is currently attending college in Florida.
Before parting ways, I asked if there was anything they wanted to share with others.
“You’re never too old to pursue a dream,” Hailey said.
Jonathan followed with, “Jesus can get you through a lot of hard times, especially college and beyond.”
With a few laughs, kind goodbyes, and plans for dessert at Spark Cafe, the two headed off down the street.
What started as a quick, slightly awkward question turned into a meaningful moment. Insightful words, shared beliefs, simple goals, and a friendly conversation that never would have happened if I hadn’t taken a chance, raised my voice, and made some new friends.
The two enjoyed the rest of the evening with a delicious treat at Spark Cafe in downtown Bentonville.
