Travel

“Travel much?”  It was an unusual question from the security officer when I arrived for my flight.  As I nodded with a degree of reluctance, he directed me to a different security line.  It seems that the officer was giving frequent travelers an edge of going through the security checkpoint with others experienced in following the steps without additional instructions.  It was a nice touch.
Yes, I travel far too much.  It seems as though I cannot keep my feet or mind in one place.  Even when I am here, my mind and heart are there.  There is one aspect of it all that keeps me grounded, friends.  When I reconnect with friends and family, I find myself rediscovering the core of what it means to be alive.  Each, in her or his way, reminds me of values that I hold close to my heart.  Individually and as a community, they bring me to a place where I can let go of constricting worries and cares.  I find myself energized, restored, and filled with hope because of the experience of being with them.
I am not the first to have this experience.  “Peter went off on a mission to visit all the churches.  In the course of his travels he arrived in Lydda and met with the believers there.”  (Acts 9.32)  Peter was never alone, the hopes and prayers of friends and family were always with him.
It is easy to forget those closest to you.  Maybe it is the routine and the ordinary.  It could also be the familiar.  Whatever the reason, today is an opportunity to rediscover the joy and wonder of relationship.  A simple word or two makes a difference.  A note, virtual conversation, or email can touch another's heart.  A smile and shared laugh can fill everyone with a fresh sense of the possible. 
I long for a time where travel does not shape my life.  Until then, I will always remember friends and family.  They are the heart and soul of living.  Today is an opportunity to walk together in love.