I Suppose…

Religious leaders sometimes say they had a “calling” in life that led them to ministering to others. Even though they tried to fight it, a voice was always telling them what to do. There were signs that couldn’t be ignored.

Although I’m not ministering to others, and my whole experience wasn’t really religious-related, I have to say that’s how I came to feel about this trip. The idea had begun nearly seven years prior, and there was a constant voice always telling me to do this. And despite a job, a relationship, or a fabulous apartment two blocks from the ocean, I couldn’t escape the feelings that I should be unemployed, single, and somewhat homeless for a year. I felt that I couldn’t NOT do it. And as the idea swelled in my head, signs (and friends) kept urging me to just do it. I began to doubt that I could ever feel fully happy in life if I didn’t take that year to see the world.

So I did it. And because of that constant voice, after I’d made the commitment, I never once doubted my decision. The voice stopped. There was no nagging feeling that I was supposed to be doing something else. I felt sure of my life for the first time in years.

Now that it’s over, though, I wonder what was the point of it all? I’m pretty scared that all I’ve got to show for it are a few new friends and some envy-inspiring photos.

I have to admit, though, that despite the fact that I’m still somewhat unemployed, single, and homeless, I feel pretty good about having taken this little vacation. I really think there was a reason for it. What? Well, now, that’s just not clear yet. But, really, is life ever?

Jayna Rust at the Great Wall in China
Me…a year ago

5 Responses to “I Suppose…”

  1. candace says:

    what an incredible adventure on which you’ve been!

  2. Kyle says:

    Does there really have to be a reason for it? Or does there have to be something to show for the trip?

    I think that’s such a gringo mentality — what have we got to show for ourselves?!? We struggle to live the moment just because.

    You followed your heart. To that I raise a glass and say, “Go Jayna!!!”

  3. Sheila says:

    I agree with Kyle! :)

  4. unhipla says:

    you’ve inspired me to see the world!

  5. Administrator says:

    Well, I guess I just often compare myself to my peers and realize that while I’m doing things (such as TFA or this trip), they’re off improving their careers, buying homes, or starting their own businesses. And sometimes I feel as though I’m never catching up in these areas (which I do hope to do) but getting behind instead…

    But then again, sometimes I do feel closer to all those things, too…

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.