The Trip of a Lifetime
We all have that one trip we hope to take someday to that one place we want to see more than anything. These past ten days I have been on that trip and I can say it has truely changed me. The destination of where that trip is varies from person to person and the reasons are just as diverse as the individuals. Sometimes we do not think the trip will happen because of finances, our lives and getting away for the time, our health, obligations to loved ones and the list can go on. I have to say that you NEED to take that trip because it is worth it in the end. You owe it to yourself.
This trip for me was to Israel and especially to the city of Jerusalem. This trip was important on many levels, all of which are personal. During my teaching career I taught about the Middle East and especially the history of the area that is today known as the nation of Israel. Getting to see the many places I taught about made my teaching even more real because I was able to personally visit those places. The other reason was more personal on a spiritual and religious level.
Jerusalem of Gold, what more can I say. Seeing the ancient city as I exited the tunnel leading me to the Holy Land I was in awe. The city stretched out before me like the welcoming arms of a dear friend or loved one I had not seen in a long time. There are truely no words to explain the feeling I had looking at the city. Those feelings were even more overwhelming when I made a trip to the Western Wall. A site of great meaning for its religious meaning and for the rich history this city has seen over thousands of year. To pray at the wall, to touch it, to feel the awesomeness of this site was moving beyond words and one I will take that with me and never forget. Jerusalem touched my heart and found a home there forever. I can say that this trip has changed me in ways I never thought it would and has left an impact on me that is like a tattoo on my heart.
The trip of a lifetime and one I am so glad I made possible. Why did I take this trip? The answer is simple because this trip was one that had been calling to me for many years and I know I would have regretted it if I had not made this trip a reality. I made this trip for myself and no other reason. I took the time from my busy life to do something meaningful for myself. My busy life is waiting for me when I return and I will ALWAYS remember my time in Israel. If the opportunity to take your trip of a lifetime presents itself seize it, make it a reality, and don’t hesitate to jump in with both feet and say let’s do this. I guarantee you will not regret the decision and maybe your trip will leave you a little different that when you began it. Make it a priority and do what you have to to make it happen. It may take a few years to save the money but start that savings today. Tomorrow is just one day closer to your destination so seize the moment and make your lifetime trip just a moment away.