"I think that wherever your journey takes you,

God is waiting there with divine patience--and laughter."

*Susan M. Watkins*

Today was a good day--after classes & lab I went to visit with a good friend. For about an hour and a half we sat on the couch & chit chatted--about family, friends, & life in general. Somedays, no matter how busy you are or what you have sitting on your plate, you need a little time to just be with someone--to slow down a bit and have a good conversation. There are times when just knowing the presence of somebody can be healing; it can make your day & allows your heart to smile.

The concept of journeys has been very present in my life this year. A Sister told me that we are all on separate journeys---but all journeys are combined---we link arms and walk with one another. Since that moment, I've been more aware of the presence and impact of those who walk on my journey and I with them. Everyone in my life has touched me in some way--whether a smile, a hug, or an hour and a half long conversation--each has in someway aided me in my journey. Though there are so many with me, there are always those who are more influential than others---how does one even begin to express to another human being that they are needed & wanted on your journey? I believe that sometimes we are often hesitant to share with one another the fact that we do indeed need their presence---we need their support, we need to be assured of their love. I am quickly learning that to hold back your gratitude, to be afraid to share that you need someone with you on your journey only creates room for regrets and "if onlys." I used to believe that if you were to tell someone you needed them--it made you weak and was a sign you could not stand on your own two feet. I have, however, come to realize that when you admit you need people on your journey & you make it known you want to be on theirs, you are not weak, rather, you are admitting that you are a human being. I realized a lot of this today as I sat on the couch facing someone who has become essential to my journey. Often, I cannot find the words or the courage to let it be known to that person--or to others that they are needed, they are wanted. I have challenged myself to begin to step out & to reach out my hand for those I want to join me. There is a risk with that; a risk that they may not reach back & that can be scary---but it is one that needs to be taken to soothe the heart & soul & to build a stable community with one another--you'll never have to say "if only.".

I may not know where my journey is taking me---but I am certain that I will never have to face it alone. I also hope & pray that I am lucky enough to walk with other people on their journeys---for that would make a wonderful life.

Picture: I took this picture outside the Forest of Friendship in Atchison. Like most of our journeys, you cannot see the end to the road in the picture. You have to have faith that someone has paved the way beyond your sight. It is sort of how I think of my journey--I have no idea where it will end, but I am hoping someone (God) has paved the rest of the road for me to follow. The trees line the way, providing beauty as you walk your journey, often like the people in our lives.