Wow, how quickly the year has passed! As I reflect upon all of the happenings, it seems like a return to simplicity seems like my theme. Herein, I am grateful for the simple blessings in my life.
Funny, but when one steps away from all of the hullabaloo and finds a quiet space, many of the things that one deems important seem to disappear. Herein, other things take priority such as peace, quiet, and a time of reflection. A rather odd sense of solitude comes over one’s soul.
After living in the city for so long, my journey to the desert seems just like the meaning of the word: a dry, hot place not just literally but figuratively as well. I had to get use to the peace, the quiet, and the time of reflection, things not so easily found in city life. Whereas, noise, people, and busy places take top priority!
Although I am not retired, nor do I feel ready to retire, living in the desert feels kind of like a retirement. Perhaps I needed this venture to remind me that I am not ready for this part of my life. At least, not yet! The idea of retirement always sounds like the end goal, but I have a mission to accomplish before I go on my retirement road!
Where am I going? For the past twenty years, my goals really have not changed too much. They have bent a little, as I have, but I still have the same hopes and dreams. My trip to the desert seems like a kind of backward adventure to achieve them, yet, I am reminded of a story I once heard.
The story goes along the lines of a couple going on the greatest trip of their life. They plan to go to an exotic, romantic place. Then, the plane and their plan gets stuck in the middle of the desert and they won’t be going anywhere for awhile. Although the couple thought they would see beaches, birds, and breathtaking views, they now see a desert wasteland.
However, the couple decides to try and make the best of it. Over the next few days, they journey through the desert and discover much of its beauty. The glorious sunrises and sunsets, the starlit eves and secret caves. Herein, the couple finds a special kind of beauty in the desert landscape.
Like this couple, do your hopes and dreams seem as if they have taken a trip to the desert? Take a look around you. Find some beauty in your surroundings. Let the desert be the place where you discover and rekindle your desires! Your oasis will soon be on the horizon!
