Are You On Vacation?

Are You On Vacation?

Where am I going?  I once missed an event that I really wanted to attend, because I was scared of getting lost in the country at night. It was a rural area, cold, and unknown to me.  No GPS existed back then. We didn’t have cell phones to carry with us.   As a result of my insecurities, I did not attend.  I decided it would be the last time that I’d miss something, because of feeling unsure of myself.  It was a very conscious decision to change how I thought about things.

Well we all get lost. We miss an exit. We get somewhere too late. We miss the main thrust of the program or speaker we wanted to hear.

This leads me to the question, “Are you on vacation”?  Are you missing the fun in life, because you aren’t present?   Vacations don’t mean that you have to leave town or that you can’t get away.   Mentally, we can all escape and take a break from day-to-day obligations and commitments.  And that is what I want to suggest to you today.

Last night was a special night.   A priest from our local parish retired a few years back but we hosted and all looked forward to celebrating his Golden Jubilee of Priesthood with us.   The church was packed with people from around the country.  Well known and loved for his outstanding commitment to empower people was evident.  People were smiling and patient with one another.

The feeling was relaxed, but so joyful when I pulled into the parking lot.  Inside there was a buzz of laughter, conversations, and people dressed up for the event.   The service was long, but I didn’t realize it until much later.   The music was superb with a few solo performances before and during the Mass.   Many deacons and several Priests were in attendance.   The church was so happy and I wished everyone in my family was there to share it with me.

Last night was a “vacation” for me.  I felt totally outside the usual obligations that I have 24/7.   I shut business out of my mind.  I turned off the fears and concerns that plague me in caring for a loved one, knowing there was nothing I could do now anyway.   I had not planned the evening in this way.  Although I had looked forward to it, I had not expected the free feeling I received.

The evening ended in a downpour of rain with a lit up sky!   It was like a big exclamation point of cleansing. The intense shower cooled down the day.   No longer did it seem muggy and humid.   The ride home felt so refreshing.  I replayed some of the humor and laughter from the talks as I drove.

These mini vacations from seemingly minor moments are very refreshing.   They just happen and when they do, I embrace them fully.   Look back at your week.   What were the mini miracles that popped up from a minor moment.   Was it when someone did a favor for you?  Was it when the phone rang and a piece of news delighted you?   Was it the unexpected piece of mail that made things easier?   I shall share that with you in a future blog!  Meantime, Delight in Living.