Sometimes I don’t appreciate something until it’s gone.
And sometimes I’m so busy looking to the next thing I miss the now-thing that exists right before me, lamenting only after it’s gone right by.
Thankfully, I’ve not done that this time. We haven’t been home in almost two weeks—a family vacation. Tomorrow is our last day here. Our last day to sleep in a dark room, to feel the sway of the ship, to be served and just do nothing at all if we want … and it’s been a wonderful time to spend together as a family.
We’ve dined and laughed and explored new places. And while the time has gone fast with the fun we have had, I’ve learned something since being away … something I should have known already.
It’s not your location but your condition that determines your relaxation.
For some crazy reason, as I left home, I thought my destination would bring me the peace and contentment I was longing for. That I’d board a magnificent ship that would take me to a tropical place and all my stress would automatically melt away.
But the funny thing is … I am me wherever I go. And THAT I had overlooked. Crazy. I know. Leave it to me to forget something so simple.
I’m the one who demands achievement.
I’m the one with the perfectionistic bent.
I’m the one who puts crazy expectations on my over-scheduled self and can become paralyzed by the stress of it all.
I am me, and I originate of the stress I feel. And it hangs over my head like a dense gray cloud—all these things I have to do.
How silly of me to think that simply leaving home would take it all away!
Because the real change in my condition has to happen within.
And although we’ve had a great time, I’m realizing inside, I still have a long way to go.
Do you find it a challenge to relax?
What helps you set your responsibilities aside and de-stress?
I’m joining Lisa-Jo, over at her site today, to take five minutes and just write without worrying if it’s just right or not. The challenge is to write for 5 minutes flat with no editing, tweaking or self critiquing, with the prompt she gives. And today, her prompt:
Home…
I am me, and I originate of the stress I feel. And it hangs over my head like a dense gray cloud—all these things I have to do.—Your words here echo true for me. I, too, am a perfectionist…past. As a mom that has sort of had to go out the window! I hope you have a wonderful transition back from the ship to the helm of your home! Wonderful photograph! Where was it taken? We sailed on the Disney Dream to the Bahamas last fall for our 10th anniversary (no kids)…weird I know…it was fun though! I didn’t feel totally relaxed though…always thinking of stuff.
This is a picture of Haunama Bay on the island of Oahu. We had such a grand time snorkeling there! Aren’t cruises the best? So nice to “meet” you Jennifer!!
First time here – your blog is *beautiful*. I felt refreshed just looking at your heading! 🙂 We go back to our current “home” in 4 more days, after 6 months away on two other continents, and I completely resonate with your words today… “I am me, and I originate the stress I feel.” Exactly right. And just the tidbit of wisdom this fellow perfectionist, over-achiever, and compulsive over-scheduler needs to take “home” with her next week… Thank you!
I hope you’ve had a great time on your vacation! 🙂
Love your post. So fresh and honest and real – and the photography is magnificant!
Ahhh..Hanauma Bay on Oahu? Yes, you carry that love and beauty within you as the Holy Spirit indwells. Aloha from Hawaii!
I am the crazy person that can’t wake to an alarm at home, but on vacation – look out! I’m up and ready while everyone else is still shuffling down to the continental breakfast! We’ve just decided to accept this quirk about me. 🙂 I get what you mean about the perfectionism and the anxiety we build up like tsunamis within us. That condition of the heart is all about choice, I think. How will I choose to perceive today, as a competition, a list, a schedule or a gift?
Your words are so true. I have that journey to travel as well.
Ok, beautiful picture…and I’m slightly jealous. (But happy for you, too!) I love your perspective…thanks for sharing your heart today! Blessings, friend! 🙂
Thank you so much Carolyn…so sweet! May your return home be refreshing, familiar, and all you are hoping for. Blessings to you!
Thank you Jennifer, we did 🙂
Thank you for your encouragement…learning to use my DSLR camera has been an unexpected joy. I never realized how rewarding it would be to capture moments as life rolls by, and I’m hoping to continue to learn more and more!
Thank you so much Char…or shall I say Mahalo?? Isn’t Hawaii lovely…a special place indeed!!
I was surprised by that too! Awake, up, and ready to go. I did ease into a relaxed morning routine but it took awhile. And oh how I can relate to those internal tsunamis…may we embrace our moments as gifts!
So glad I’m not alone…otherwise I’d be a crazy lady! Hoping your vacation was wonderful too!
Thank you Mel…blessings to you too!!