My Grand Adventure
“I can put you on medication, you can change your eating habits and adopt an exercise regiment; but ultimately it will be stress that kills you.” My doctor said these words to me last Spring. They were sobering. She mentioned health issues that have plagued my family for GENERATIONS! I was going down the same path, but at an accelerated rate because of stress. Stressful job + inability to say no + a conditioned “martyr” personality + circumstances that contributed to flimsy boundaries = CHANGE OF LIFESTYLE!
I needed to make some radical changes in order to be well. So, here I am on the cusp of a new year. I gave away half of my things, quit my job, packed up my life and drove across the country. All because I heard those two words. Two words I’ve heard before. Two words I’ve obeyed before. Two words that always set in motion a grand adventure. “Trust Me”, that is what my God said.
So, here I go again. Taking a leap of faith. Deciding to trust that the faithful God who has never let me down, never broken a promise and always exceeded my expectations — will do it again.
I’m taking a sabbatical year. A year “off” to write, rest, regroup, and travel. I hope to get lost in the wonder of God’s creation. I hope to discover hidden gems, eat new foods, converse with strangers, and make new friends. I hope to pursue the shalom of God (see my post on what is Shalom?). I hope you will join me on this grand adventure. Mostly, I hope you will embark on your own adventure that divinely connects you with people, nature, God, and yourself.
6 Comments
Antoinette Williams
Loving this blog!
Prov31mdw
Thanks Toni! Sorry I missed you this trip. But, I hope to catch up with you soon!
Esther Robinson Venema
God’s blessings on you in your pursuit of shalom שָׁלוֹם. As I read pieces of your blog, it is clear to me that God is pursuing you! May you find rest in responding to God’s goodness as you explore all the fullness of God’s earth.
Prov31mdw
Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment! Blessings to you!
Dean Branson
I remember journeying with you in some stressful times. I don’t miss them, but I certainly miss the wise and caring friend who walked with me. I am thrilled you are taking time away from formal work to pursue Shalom. I look forward to reading about your grand adventure.
Prov31mdw
Dean! So good to hear from you. I hope you are well. Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Miss your sense of humor through difficult times. Please say hi to Sarah and the family for me. Blessings!