The Urge To Be Someplace Else
/“When I was very young and the urge to be someplace else was on me…”
I recently saw the movie “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”. It is about a guy who lives a pretty dull life working a 9 to 5 job until a turn of events leads him to go on an epic adventure where he spontaneously travels to different parts of the world, climbs the tallest peak of a mountain, jumps from a helicopter into the sea, and does all of this while essentially becoming a hero.
This movie resonated with me deep down in my bones. I remembered my own traveling adventures and now I am yearning for more.
In the Fall of 2003 I went to Antigua, Guatemala on a whim and it ended up being one of the best decisions of my life. I was truly free. The most free I have ever felt in years. I met people from all of the world who came to that city to learn Spanish. When money started getting tight, I lived in the back of a barbershop for cheaper rent. I went to a beach with black sand, yes...black sand, and then swam in an ocean and nearly drowned from the powerful riptide. I climbed a volcano with friends --I had just made-- in the pouring rain and climbed above the clouds. It was the most spectacular view.
God showed up in my life in many ways. I learned how to connect with God at a deeper level in worship. I learned the power and beauty of silence. I saw his love in service. Oh man...there are so many stories. I made great new friends who I stay in contact with to this day. This was the trip that gave me wanderlust. This was the trip that started it all.
Wanderlust
/wändərˌləst/ noun “a strong desire to travel.”
One of the last messages Jesus leaves his disciples is “GO”. He said “Go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15. I like that. Jesus gives you permission to have adventure for His cause. He gives you permission to advance the Kingdom. Does this resonate with you? What type of adventure is calling your name?