"Ain't Gotta Be the Way It's Always Been" is a story describing a son and grandsons personal and family growth in understanding priorities that matter from a patient grandfather while on a backpacking adventure. The reader will be introduced to the Values-Beliefs Model, the FIRE Principle, and the Priority Assistant as well as other concepts and principles related to growth, achievement and finding a sense of fulfillment. The tools and principles apply to personal, family, as well as business and organizational growth and development. The "Ain't Gotta Be" story tells of a grandfather who reaches out to his son and grandson to develop a closer relationship. Having back packed into a remote alpine wilderness, the two younger members of the family learn that fishing is different from catching. Through a series of events, which include the discovery and truth behind the mysterious "Legend of Paradise Winter," the grandfather has a chance to share and teach principles and concepts of growth as well as share some "tools," one of which impacts a major career decision that faces his son. The adventure transforms their relationships and provides the opportunity for all of them to experience personal as well as collective growth. As the trip nears its end, the enthusiasm and excitement of having solved the mystery of the legend shifts to the young men realizing the life-changing potential they have learned.