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| Our Grandson at Nine Months |
Life is full of decisions! As I prepare for a trip to India, I am thinking about the people and things that I am going to miss. Once in a while I think to myself, "You are crazy- you are giving up too much." Then the other side of my brain takes over and I look at the benefits.
Although it is too late to write pro/con lists, I need to take the time today, because I have it, to consider the consequences of our quick decision.
Pro
- Opportunity to travel to another part of the world
- Renewal of relationships with good friends
- Ability to contribute on a daily basis to the lives of young children
- Escape from the spring time black flies and inconsistent weather (today it is snowing!)
Con
- Missing family and friends in Canada, especially our grandson and neighbours, sisters, brothers and mother
- Missing out on opportunities to work as an occasional teacher for the next two months
- Possible discomfort in another foreign country
I remember from my the childhood some of my mother's key phrases that have helped to shape my attitude and personality. She would often say, "Hurry up and wait...." and "Good things are worth the wait."
Recently my brother passed on this message about driving, but I believe it is also a good one for living, "Patience and forgiveness".
Lately my motto has been, "Patience and persistence."
There is a common thread here and I hope that I get it right. I tend to hurry through life waiting for good things to happen, but it is more important to be patient, persistent, and forgiving (especially with oneself), while waiting.
Now the wait is on for a visa to travel India. Friends of ours are living there and we are going for a two or three month visit. We see this as a great opportunity to explore a new culture and contribute to a community.
This increased wait time here at home will give us an opportunity to spend time with some of our family members before heading out. Although three months does not sound like a long time to us, we are going to miss some special people while we are away.
- our grandson, who is now just over 9 months old
- my sister, who is recovering from cancer treatment
- my brother, who lives relatively close to home and recovering from a broken leg
- my mom, who has been struggling with a few health issues
- my husband's family, who also live close-by
- our neighbours, who are wonderfully supportive
- co-workers at the various schools where I am presently working
Pro and con considered, as one of my close friends says, "It is what it is." And I plan to make the most of the experience!
Until next time,
Bee Rich
