The Gift of Travel

There are days in my life when I’m down. Frustrated, sad, depressed, angry, emotionally shaken… you name it. When other people are feeling those emotions they often look to their priest, their families, and their friends for comfort. All of those outlets are great but, to be honest, they don’t always help me. During times like that I resort to something that has proven to help me before: Travel.

For many people travel is a luxury and in that regard, I’m no different. But I also like to look at travel as a blessing.  Just the thought of going to a place far away from my problems helps ease what ever tensions I’m feeling. I know, I know. Running from your problems doesn’t make them go away. I’m fully aware of that but let me try to explain my approach to travel and maybe you’ll understand where I’m coming from.

When I am in my head about my problems all I can think about is me, what is happening to me, how I’m affected, etc. When I get on a plane and travel to some place else, I drop that. I begin to see the beauty in other people, places, and things. I spend my time taking in other cultures, wondering about the people of that locale, and meditating on the blessings that I have been given. My focus is no longer solely on me. It’s on enjoying life and meeting new people. Trying new foods and breathing in different energy. Finding joy and peace in the simple things. My thinking becomes clearer and at that moment, I’m thankful.

I’m thankful for the life I’ve been given and my problems no longer seem so monumental. Instead of wishing I had a different job, I’m thankful that my current job pays my bills and provides me the ability to travel. Instead of wishing I hadn’t gained weight, I’m thankful for good health. The list of things I’m thankful for is endless. Most of all, I’m thankful for being reminded that whatever my problem is, it could always be worse. I encourage you all to take more from your trips than just the destination. Use travel as a means to educate yourself, consider other perspectives, and to gain a higher appreciation for things happening in your life. Do those things and watch your life start to improve in so many ways. I’ve seen it happen for myself.

Thank you for reading.