Carrying the Baggage
Next week I’ll be off on a trip to Bluff, Utah, where I’ll join with fellow travelers in a rafting trip down the San Juan River. This is my first adventure in white water rafting and, although the promise is that it will be a pretty mild trip, it’s all new to me.
In spare moments throughout the past week, I’ve been dropping off in a central location in my bedroom the ”Stuff” that I will bring along. Insect repellent is a must, clothes for hot days and cooler evenings, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, tent, sleeping bag, …. But do I need a lightweight camping chair? I can see where it would be great to have. On the other hand, I’ll be lugging my dufflebag to each campsite. I consider with care what “Stuff” I’ll bring, wanting to be sure that I’ll have what I need when I’m far from a 7-11 but also wanting to be sure that I can carry what I bring.
And then it hits me. What about all the other “Stuff” that I carry along without even thinking about it. There’s that old story that I’m not athletic and am bound to make a fool of myself on the raft. There’s a sense of adventure and desire to try something new that may serve me well. But am I being weighed down by carrying along that self-doubt and ego and fear?
How much time I’ve spent considering the physical baggage! How little time I’ve devoted to the emotional baggage that’s just too heavy for my spirit to carry all the way! So before I go, I’m committing to sift through my old stories and ego needs. I’m taking out of my bag that ”Stuff” that will slow me down. I’m committing to adventure by traveling light, informed by this moment. I’ll let you know how it feels to travel without so much “Stuff” when I return in July. In the meantime, may you also travel lightly and enjoy the summer!