Going From—Toward

How beautifully the essayist and social critic Henry David Thoreau speaks of the journeyer: "A traveler. I love his title. A traveler is to be revered as such. His profession is the best symbol of life. Going from—toward: it is the history of every one of us." Travel, like life, produces rich lessons in the "going from—toward"!

My life adventure probably is much like yours—rich with people, places, and things. In life’s classroom, humankind is a meaningful "Professor." Fascinating members of the human species have glided, hurtled, and bombarded their way into my sphere. The constant ones, magnificent beings, have come to me through great books—the Bible (especially), anthologies, the classics, autobiographies, and biographies. These tomes, along with everyday teachers, speakers, and ministers that lift the human spirit, were an apt formula to dispel prejudice, bigotry, and discontent. More and more I discovered the extraordinary in the ordinary, challenging me to enlarge the doors to my heart and mind and give thanks for the bitter, the sweet, and the indifferent.

Life’s gift of places new and old has been a fine lesson in perspective. Roman dramatist, philosopher, and statesman Seneca confirms what many of us already know: "Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind." American author Gail Ruben Beremy echoes Seneca's thought with her own: "Keep things on your trip in perspective and you'll be amazed at the perspective you gain on things back home while you're away."

As much as I love home, I keep a bag packed for mental and physical travel. Each tiny journey to a new place replenishes and expands what I know of myself, others, and my environment.

The mandatory "must-haves" for life are a backpack of recording devices. Mama told us never to leave home without pencil and paper: “You never know when life teaches you a lesson that needs recording." The world offers so much to receive and savor . . . life's music class must be attended. Our observations, listening, and conversations assume a sweet longevity when recorded. Written and oral accounts are some of the best heart gifts ever received or given.

Yes, life is a marvelous, marvelous journey. Each step an offering of new understanding . . . every turn a welcome invitation to touch a part of you and me once forgotten or never known.

Amazing, isn't it? The more we are present in the moment . . . the more we are willing to learn life’s lessons . . . the more presents for us to receive and share.