Hello, everyone. I've returned from a 3 1/2 week sabbatical that was taken, in part, to celebrate a major life event. In the days leading up to the trip, I was torn over whether to bring my laptop, which allows me to access a number of accounts my smartphone does not, and makes it easier to write, or to leave it behind to eliminate the temptation and distraction it would create.
Spoiler alert: I brought it.
Second spoiler alert: I was extremely diligent at not using it except when absolutely necessary, either to support things I was doing, respond to friends or customers more effectively. I was very proud of myself for this, and for staying in the moment day after day.
Third spoiler alert: It proved to be a valuable ally when the trip went haywire. Really haywire, as in being quarantined for three days and restricted for more by the limitations my travel partner suffered from prolonged recovery.
It was easy to get down and depressed from all of this. We'd booked premium adventures and accommodations at premium locations, and were really looking forward to escaping and immersing ourselves into locations and cultures we'd never visited before. These included regions of England, Greece and Greek Islands, Turkey, Croatia, Montenegro, and Spain.
Quarantine residual illness decimated some of this. Others were notably minimized. My travel partner was not able to leave the room for half of the days, which also meant that they we not up to doing anything on those days as well. It meant that some of my time was also consumed with walks for groceries or medicines.
I am well aware that, over time, the bad moments will mostly fade into the ether, and the good will be fondly embraced. The near-term is consumed with shedding head colds and the like, lack of appetite and energy, and hope for a normal future around the corner. All of which is quite the test for me, because I am in no way, shape or form, a sedate person. I'm a hop from the bed, pop onto the treadmill, and race out the door adventurous spirit. One that is excited by life and all that can be discovered within it. I have no patience for healing when it entails watching time go by.
So, my greatest challenge today is being still among deadlines and desires piling up all around me. I want to draw a sword and leap into battle, but need to withdraw into a healing consciousness. It's a daunting battle.
Last spoiler alert? We'll see.
