An Atmosphere of Growth
I appreciate the paradox that the things that make us the happiest, do not necessarily make us feel happy in the moment. I talk about how I like being someone who HAS travelled. For me, planning and executing a trip are stressful. I try to reframe it as exciting, but it does not feel exciting, it feels panic-inducing at times. I am writing this devotional from Heathrow Airport.
Our family, my spouse, my daughter and her boyfriend, and our son who spent this semester studying at the University of Roehampton in London, are headed back to the U.S. We went to Belgium and the Netherlands, new places for all of us. We saw so many churches, castles, and museums. It was a great trip. No one got sick or injured. However, with five people together for 12 days straight, there were moments when each of us were tired, hungry, or overstimulated. Keeping track of the apps (so many places needed us to download an app), reservations, and ensuring everything was charged and not left behind was stressful. I know I will look back on this trip as a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. We will talk about our experiences for the rest of our lives.
As I get older, stepping outside my comfort zone becomes more challenging, but I know it’s important. I need to experience an atmosphere of growth in other areas of my life, too. I need to accept myself and expect more of myself. I know the next few months are going to be challenging, but I also know that I will look back on this time of my life as one where I experienced growth. I need to remind myself it’s okay to say, “This is stressful, but we’re making memories.”
Creator,
This world we inhabit is full of wonders. It’s also full of rail worker strikes, public restrooms that cost money, and scaffolding covering a beautiful building. Remind us that it is okay to acknowledge the challenges while enjoying the waffles, chocolate, and beers. Amen
Michelle is a Program Analyst with the Department of Veterans Affairs. She’s a wife, mother, sister, and friend, a chocolate and coffee lover, reader of books, listener of podcasts, and a travel enthusiast.