I hate traveling. Pretty sure I just unpacked my battered suitcase from somewhere. Now, I sit in the passenger seat for my monthly trek to Chicago. We don’t get Chicago Pizza, watch the White Sox or shop on the Magnificent Mile.
Did I bring my toothbrush? Never fails, I usually forget something. I wish I were better at this travel thing, but I’m not. I way OVER pack shoes, clothes, etc. because I just never know what I might need or what doesn’t fit this week!
I bring my own pillow because I hate the thought of putting my face on someone else’s drool. I would pack my bed if I could. Make sure you don’t watch 20/20 to find out what’s in the world of public bedrooms.
I miss my coffee (Blossom and Sons) my bathroom, my deck, my books and my own office. I like my own cooking and knowing who cooked it and if hands and veggies were washed.
Oh and the worst part, I miss my kids and grandkids. It’s not that I see them everyday when I’m home but just knowing I can’t, makes me long to see their beautiful faces. As soon as I get in the car, I’ve got McD’s or pizza party plans for them when I get home!
Do I sound like a whiner? I’m not, I’m just saying…
Why do I go to Chicago? I go to Listen. I listen to the stories of leaders who are on an intentional spiritual journey with the Transforming Center transformingcenter.org. Each group of leaders spends 2.5 days each quarter practicing their faith, deepening their relationship with God and strengthening the souls of their leadership.
Really, I love traveling, especially to Chicago. Providing the service of Spiritual Direction to pastors and leaders as they navigate the journey is pure joy for me. I know their lives are experiencing profound transformation. How do I know? I took the trip for myself at a critical time in my life 15 years ago. A Spiritual Director helped me hear my truth and discover where God was through it all. Now I do that for others.
So, with my broken wheeled suitcase in the back I sing with Willy Nelson, “On the road again.” Extra bonus- this gorgeous dude is my traveling companion.
I love traveling.