Upstairs in my room, one suitcase, one carry-on backpack, and one travel purse are packed in anticipation of Monday's travel. A few anxious moments...have I taken what I'll really need? Packed too much? Not enough? Have I remembered everything for my personal care bag? Toothbrush, check- dental floss, check- malaria medication. check- insect repellent, check- sunscreen, check...and the list goes on. Then there's the travel umbrella, the rain coat, and the large-brimmed hat for the variable weather...the cotton socks, sleep mask, ear plugs, paperback, and crossword puzzles for the flight. Lots to think of, lots to prepare...and there are always the airlines' travel regulations to keep in mind.
But now I'm finished...no more second-guessing myself. What is packed is what I will use and live with for my 26 days of travel...and it will be enough. Of that I am certain. Isn't it strange how much we agonize over so many things which are truly unimportant? After all, when I am in Kenya, in Tanzania and Rwanda, is anyone really going to care what I'm wearing? Will it matter if I am "color-coordinated"? Will it even matter if the odor emanating from my body does not measure up to U.S. standards?
I suspect that what is most important, most meaningful about this journey will have nothing to do with what's on my body and everything to do with what's in my heart and mind...with the interactions between me and the people I will meet, the places I will go, the things I will see and experience. So, my suitcases are packed, well and truly packed. My journal and camera and computer are in my carry-on bags. Tomorrow I will worship with my faith community- sing and pray and share the Sunday meal...and when I lay me down to sleep, I will rest knowing that all manner of things will be well, that the Holy One will be guiding my steps, each step of the way.
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