Open Doors

So, here it goes. The beginning of a new journey. While no two journeys are alike, this new adventure I am about to embark on is an extraordinary opportunity. On September 19th ( in 33 days) I will depart for Fish Hoke, South Africa where I will spend almost three months working as a health care volunteer in a local health clinic and orphanage. Limited electricity, hot water, and internet. No washer dryer. No familiar faces or friends going with. Back to dorm style living. Sleeping with a mosquito net. And most importantly a fresh set of eyes and an open heart to see it all.

Just like everyone who walks the earth, my whole life has been a collection of journeys. I've had my share of bumps along the way, a few road blocks, and enough pot holes to earn an extra foot of toes to count on. I've traveled crystal clear journeys of joy and others that seemed like long foggy roads with a headlight out. But all of those prepared the way for me, began to create and shape who I am, for when I needed it the most.

The past six months have been without a doubt some of the most emotionally challenging I have ever faced. I found myself, more than once, as a crying heap on the floor experiencing the pain of loss, disappointment, heartbreak, and raw sadness unraveling within me. But from our deepest darkness, we find light. From breaking down, we learn to build up, spread our wings, and fly. From the pain I have experienced I am beginning to emerge with strength, courage, and an ability to feel joy that lies deep within us all. I've had journeys come to an end, said good byes, new beginnings, and journeys that still continue to work their course. Now I can begin to spread my wings once again, a new path.  I have my past in my heart and a solid foundation of who I am, but also fresh eyes open with eagerness and excitement to continue to discover what I can become. I can begin a journey to find my stripes.

Hellen Keller said "When one door to happiness closes, another opens. But so often we look so long at the closed door we do not see the one which has been opened for us." I look at this trip as shifting my gaze. Changing the direction I am looking. Turning my head, toward a new door of happiness.