And They're Off

I am always amazed at the surprises in life. Especially those that I should know are coming! I haven't decided if this is ignorance or avoidance. Both of my children left the country this past Tuesday. It was a time of excitment, tears and unbelief. As a parent I hoped I always gave my children permission to live their own lives; to look into their own hearts and live from there. So, why was I surprised at my grief as they left? Isn't this what I prepared them for? Monday evening I took Collin's face in my hands, smiled into his different green eyes and while saying "I love you" knew that my boy child was truely an amazing young man. I also realized he had grown up. Of course I've known this. But when we really pause and think and love with intention.....we own it. Collin is on an adventure of a life time. Allyson has traveled out of the country quite a bit for a 21 year old. However this time it seemed more real. I guess because she had just turned 21 four days earlier. And the realization that she was a young woman hit like a mack truck. My children have had a huge impact on making me who I am today. We are all three exactly where we need to be at this moment. I have been holding my breath since they both boarded their planes. And now I have heard they are both safe; one in Mexico and one in Bangkok, I can exhale. Like a diver coming up for air......I breath. So, Collin and Allyson to you I say, "Let your unconscious, your dreams, your hearts, the divine work on your behalf." My prayer for you- I pray that while having an adventure of a lifetime you pause to embrace the sacredness of your journeys. I pray that while your souls are fed your eyes and hearts are open to the people, places and surprises that await you. I pray you find the divine in the ordinary-not so ordinary places you visit. I pray you are intentionally present to the mystery and wonder as you walk. I pray for your safe return. Amen.