One of my friends advocates taking cold showers for a month.
Another decided to wear only 7 items of clothing for 7 days.
And one is determined to visit every country in the world before his 35th birthday. (Yes, even the scary ones.)
What’s behind all of this craziness?
They’ve all realized that a life of constant comfort is numbing.
A little pain reminds you that you’re alive. A few days of discomfort leads to renewed gratitude.
For me, it was the shower curtain.
When we finally checked in to the Badladz Beach Resort in Puerto Galera after nearly a week of transit (and dodging typhoons), I was most delighted to see a shower curtain in the bathroom.
The lounge in Singapore didn’t have one. Neither did our hotels in Manila or Batangas.
But aside from saving me a few minutes of mopping up after myself, it really didn’t change anything.
So why did it matter?
I think it was a symbol of the basic conveniences that I took for granted everyday.
And after being without them for a week, I recognized them again.
I didn’t overlook or expect them anymore.
In just a few days, my “normal” has been recalibrated.
- In an unfamiliar environment, I’m forced to stay focused on the present.
- Put in difficult situations, I’m trusting the inherent goodness of people.
- Stripped of plentiful comforts, I’m grateful for small pleasures.
- Without constant connection, I’m learning how refreshing it is to unplug.
- Carrying only a backpack, I’ve realized how simple life can be.
And long after this adventure is over, the lessons are still mine to keep.
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Have you learned any powerful life lessons lately? How?
Can’t wait to hear about the “3 weeks with just a backpack” journey.
So far, the backpack part has been easy. We were glad that was all we had to carry when our travel plans within the Philippines fell through, and we had to take a much longer route. Plus, it’s been raining the entire time, so more luggage would have really been a pain. Now that we’re settled in Puerto Galera, we have access to laundry – which sorta feels like cheating, but I’m so thankful. š
Kendra, we are enjoying your journey from afar. My most powerful lesson lately has been from my youngest son who I just left at his doom room. His first college experience, I promised I wouldn’t cry but I did. I realized that trying to protect and trump his decisions I thought were not wise ending up being the worst thing I could do. He was silent but not happy with me and to see him released into his own environment was an unmatched feeling.
I realize God holds people dear to us closer than we ever could. If only I had trusted God more, I wouldn’t have caused him so much anxiety. I probably got in the way…..so now….I am learning to breathe and let him grow…… Thank goodness God doesn’t mind hearing all my worries, fears and frustrations. He has big shoulders to handle it all.
Even teenagers……
God Bless Us All! š