Travel

“The world is a smaller place.” 
 
“The world is shrinking.”
 
“The gaps between people of the world are growing smaller ever day.”
 
Clich?s describe our changing world.  It is as if every new airfare comes with a slogan or mantra describing a new view of our global community.  Evidence supports the fact that we can get from point A to B quicker than at any time in history.  The time and distance within reach by walking, riding a horse, or driving has dramatically changed with the advent of daily flights across the world.  It is often easier and cheaper to fly across the US or from the US to Europe for a week’s vacation then part your car in long-term parking at the airport. 
 
In the midst of this the emotions we carry with us about travel and absence have not changed.  There is a sense of loss, from relationships and familiar surroundings, when one travels.  I once thought that it was hardest on the one who left.  Perhaps I was trying to deal with my own emotions and the struggle of being away from the girls.  Having experienced the opposite recently, I think leaving is the easy part.  How the girls survived all my flights over the years I will never fully understand!  If I could replay the scenes knowing that my travel itself couldn’t be changed, here is what I would want to make sure they know.
 
“You are loved; fully, completely, and unconditionally, just as you are.  I may not be here but my love, compassion, and heart is.”
 
“I will not leave you orphaned.  I'm coming back.”  (John 14.18)  “If only I could explain why I was not with you for a short time, I would.  Walk and sleep in the knowledge I will return.”
 
“While I am gone I will leave someone to guide you and be with you.  I know it isn’t the real thing; yet walk in Spirit together, and this one will be there are my behalf until I return.”
 
Did I remind you that I love you?