Thousands of messages flood our minds each day — which crockpot meal to prepare for dinner tomorrow, what time the Washington Nationals play tonight, and I hope the new substitute doesn’t park in my spot again today. My mind seems to wander outside its usual confines and wonders about things that aren’t even my business — I wonder who does her hair, does my neighbor really have lawn chairs in his driveway, or why can’t that guy drive the speed limit? Eventually it finds its way back home, but it’s free to wander. Sometimes it just needs to wander. Call it a brain break if you will.
Just a few minutes ago, I read a short passage that read God wants you to know that you were not created to remain within the confines of a building. I smiled a little as I read that one because the sentiment is very similar to what I read in the last chapter of the book I’ve been reading for my bible study. To sum up the last chapter, the author urges us to go where the spirit leads and to surrender everything — trusting completely that the author and finisher of our lives knows exactly what he’s doing.
These messages are timely since this is the time of year for change. Teachers sometimes leave their current schools in search of something better — better pay, better culture, better climate. Some school leaders leave too. They are promoted and moved to new schools or executive roles. Some leave the profession altogether in search of something that brings them more joy, more money, or more flexibility. I always wonder if this is the year that I get the opportunity to do something different. I’m not looking, but I’m also expectant. This is the longest time that I’ve been in one place. Until now, five years was the longest I spent living anyplace other than my home state.
I love what I do, and I love where I’m doing it, but (and there’s always a but) I sometimes feel like I need a little more space, some breathing room, or a brain break. I don’t know what ” a little more space” will look like for me. It might mean buying a cabin in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge where I can escape and write and refine my writing ’til I’m content. It might mean taking a yoga class with my newly-certified friend Terrie. It might just mean taking a Girls Trip to the Toronto Film Festival in the fall. Who knows? I sure don’t. What I do know is that I can’t be confined to a building. Perhaps this little blog of mine will serve as the vessel that whisks me away to places I’ve only read about or seen on maps. After all, it has traveled to more than 60 countries in six months. My passion for writing and connecting with those who read my posts can’t be compared to anything tangible. It’s a feeling that many search for all of their lives; yet, the two never meet. I’m grateful to have finally found it one day six months ago while sitting in my small upstairs work space — wondering whether I had the courage to step out of my comfort zone and press the publish button. I was the bravest I’ve ever been in that moment on November 1, 2015, and I thank God for giving me the strength and the courage to share my gift with the world.
What about you?
What are you waiting for?
Are you ready to move?
I wonder where you’ll wander.
Michelle, Michelle! Why do you keep reading my mail?! I am grateful you decided to hit that ‘Publish’ button just 6 short months ago and even more grateful that I have had the privilege of seeing God’s work unfold in you as you have taken very bold steps. It has encouraged me to keep moving forward no matter what…especially today. Come what may, I gotta keep moving as He says, even as scary as that seems. I desire to live a life of no regrets and very little, ‘what ifs’. Thank you for taking this journey with me and for allowing me to watch you as well. Love you!
You’re a bold young woman — strong and courageous! I knoe God’s plan for you is great! Love you too!
I’m so glad you pushed that publish button. Getting to know you has been wonderful and your blog is blowing up with good news, girlfriend. You just keep blowing those walls away. I feel certain God has your back.
I’m so grateful for our connection, my friend.
Oh I love this line…”urges us to go where the spirit leads and to surrender everything” I laughed right out loud about the substitute parking in your spot! This is such an inspiring post, I love all that you say. Wouldn’t it be so awesome to have a cabin to retreat to and write…my sister just bought one in North Carolina, she’s a Phys Ed Teacher in Florida and is retiring within the next year…she bought a boat and wants to travel the country’s waterways and then when she’s done with that she’s going to go live in that cabin in the mountains. I admire her so much for following her dream….go, follow yours Michelle!! Let’s do what the author said. xo
Girl, you seem to read my mind. Beautiful post, personally inspiring for me. Thank you
That’s high praise coming from you, Jacqueline. Thanks, dear!
I see you’d like to go to the Toronto Film Festival. Do you live in Toronto? I live east of Toronto but that’s definitely on my bucket list. I’d like to rent a hotel room and stay for the whole week during the TIFF.
I want to go! I live in Washington DC in the United States, and I’ve never been to Canada.
I’m impressed that you know about it!