a soul-reviving vacation

I am now convinced that I need to take it easy more often and find places that bring me back to what really matters in life. And I have found one of those places: Vancouver, BC.

For those who know me well, I am someone with far too much on her plate; someone who over-commits herself to activities and responsibilities. The result is a life lived with adventure and full of experience; but also a life lived on overdrive with not enough time to spend with the ones I love. Sure, I am productive. But is it production that echoes in eternity, or is it just being "busy"?

I am asking myself these questions this week.

I had plenty of time to think on the plane ride here yesterday, and Sarah and I are traveling mainly by bus and skytrain around the city, so there's ample time for reflection. I am realizing that I sow too much time into things that don't deserve my time--and I want to change that fact. I want to spend more quality time with friends, and exert more energy to let those around me know how much they mean to my life. This is a new and on-going goal of mine.

Spending a week in Vancouver is also teaching me the importance of relishing in nature. Why else would God have given us such a beautiful world, but to praise Him for it and enjoy it?! Vancouver is dotted with beautiful parks, beaches, and outdoor activities. I'm taking advantage of the free ones this week! I currently spend too much time indoors, and I want to change that as soon as I get home.

Another lesson that Vancity has unknowingly taught me already is the importance of relationship. I've already seen in other countries how the emphasis is put upon relationships and people, rather than appearances and belongings (and there are of course exceptions to the rule everywhere)--but I am seeing the difference with new eyes this time around. I want to be more real with people and appreciate them even more for who they are.

So far, this has been a wonderful and meaningful visit with Sarah, as well as a glimpse into my heart and God's soul. I pray it continues.

Here is a picture of a bag that I saw while shopping with my Aunt Bonnie in Arkansas last weekend. It verbalizes well what I have been learning this week:

Learning to breathe,

Heather