I broke into 2011 by hopping a plane to Venice, Italy. No, I'm not privileged enough to have a pleasure trip during winter break. I took part in a three credit fine arts course through my college. Basically, I spent two weeks in Northern Italy visiting museums, palaces, villas, churches and a couple of houses. I was lucky enough to also mark two decades of life by visiting Verona and seeing Juliet's house, balcony and statue.
One of my favorite things in the world to do is travel. Every time I visit a new country and see a new culture I feel as though a part of me is being fulfilled. I've done it. I have gone off and experienced something that most people only dream of. I feel as though I am being hit lately by an astounding amount of loss and mortality. Each time it confronts me, I have an inward reaction with a need to seize the day and take opportunities I would normally deem impossible or less important. I.E. spending $2,900 that I did not have (until I made a deal with the government) to run off to Italy for two weeks. Taking steps such as that one, make me feel like I'm doing my part. I am using the gifts that God gives me and walking through His door of opportunity. Even when that door has some pot holes on the other side.
The trip was amazing. I was able to get lost in a city full of dead ends, water, boats, delicious food, and great shopping. I got to travel an hour away to experience a different part of Italy; a part that inspired an internationally famous love story. I experienced Italians' fearless driving to see the amazing work of God known as the Alps and meet a man who has literally given up EVERYTHING to do the work God has called him to.
But there were down sides also. I had to stretch my patience, adaptability, and willingness to accept complete loss of control. It wasn't a trip of complete smiles and sunshine. There was rain, freezing temperatures, and definitely tears. I got to a breaking point where I realized something extra important and seemingly obvious. The only way to take the next step forward is to give it ALL up to God. Turning my iPod to my Christian genre and giving my sanity to Him is the only thing that kept me from falling over the edge.
And now, after it is all over, I only know one thing. I am not in control and nothing in my future is absolute.
