As I prepare to leave my home, not only for a trip to visit my mom in New England, but in awareness that this is hurricane season in Florida, I have no idea whether I can fly out safely and whether my home and belongings will be intact when I return. 
I look around at the one-of-a-kind art work that I have carefully chosen over the years, my own art creations, the special jewelry given to me by loved ones, and even more valuable, are the gifts, cards and letters, most of which hold cherished memories, especially of those no longer here.
I give less thought to the closet filled with clothes and shoes, some kept “just in case” – in case I lose or put on weight or I might need it for a colder climate. . . Somehow it seems trivial, given the conditions of others across the world who flee their homes with little or nothing and may never be able to return.
Yet, planning for any travel requires decisions. What I take for my trip has to fit into one carry-on – room only for “essentials” or at least what I consider them to be.
I glance at the bookshelves filled with those books unread or worthy of a second ‘read’ –hoping one will make it into the carry-on that would help me to forget the cramped surroundings on my flight.
And if on that flight, the plane malfunctions, what would it matter what cherished items were stowed under the seat? What would be of greatest importance would be my loved ones whom I would be leaving behind on both ends of the journey.
I am reminded of what would always be the most valued on my final trip to ‘the other side’, whenever and however that
will be. It would be every precious moment and memory of who I loved, who opened my heart so wide that it could allow more love in, who ‘was there no matter what’, who taught me the value of my life – measured by who I was, what I gave, inspired or shared, and not by what I owned.
And later, upon landing safely, it will fortify my resolve to be more compassionate, appreciative, kinder … so that when I experience my final moment for real, I will have no regrets.
What do we leave behind every day in our walk, through life? Do we leave a warm smile, express a kind word, a caring text or email, or give someone a hug, a helping hand…creating ripple effects in their wake? I don’t leave it up to chance. It’s why I never walk out the door or end a call without an “I love (or appreciate) you” to those whom I hold dear.
Speak Your Mind