All Around My Island

As a result of the stress that has seized my life as of late, like pirates raiding a wealthy trading ship, I’ve been, hesitate to put my thoughts down, fearful of the pessimistic tone they would inevitably take. Presently I am perched precariously on the edge of a hypothetical cliff; my past appropriately represented by all that lies behind me, and my future the vastness that lies ahead. As I await the cue to jump, I’ve begun to feel … lost. In the famous fairy-tale depicting the adventures of Hansel and Gretel, one learns of their ingenuity in leaving a trail of breadcrumbs in order to find their way home. However, what if you do not desire to retrace your steps but rather continue forward? What clues or hints lie ahead to signal that you are in fact on the correct path? Family, faith, and intuition are all key components within life’s compass, but there are others that reveal themselves in our search for clarity.

Most recently, I have discovered a breadcrumb in the form of a new friend that emerged from where there was previously only a classmate. In the weeks that we’ve been communicating, I have found an endless stream of encouragement and a bottomless well of enlightenment. With the exception of my husband and my family, she is the first to ask why my mood has become one of discouragement and the first to offer words of comfort.

While my gratitude for her presence creeps its way into my conscience I consider my own place in the lives of others … am I being a breadcrumb, ensuring those I love receive an encouraging sign that they are on the right path, or am I merely a spectator. Unfortunately, I feel that for most of those I care for I am simply sitting on the sidelines. I cheer individuals on from the safety of the stands, but I fail when it comes to actually getting involved in their adventure. I’ve been peering over the edge of my cliff with such intent I have forgotten to be truly involved.

With this small spotlight on my selfishness, I am going to attempt to take a detour. As I await for the unknown beyond the edge of my precipice to come into focus I am going to venture outward in both directions. If I encounter other travelers who too feel a bit lost, I will strive to be a signal, a breadcrumb, supporting their direction whether it be wandering onward or making their way home. My hope is that by spending a little less time in anticipation of what life will have in store for me and my future, I will be pleasantly surprised at how I am actually right where I am meant to be … not lost at all.