Unpacking

When I travel, I’m rather adamant about doing something that is the opposite of what Capitalist society would prefer I do: come home with less in my suitcase than when I arrived. Rather than amassing gifts and souvenirs, I try to get rid of objects as I go.

Sometimes it’s as simple as finishing off a toiletry bottle and recycling it, or bringing exactly the right number of supplements so the little baggies are empty by the time I’m coming home. Sometimes it’s giving away books once finished, or leaving them in my accommodations for whomever might like them. Once it was throwing away a torn dress.

On paper it’s about lightening my load, literally. I travel light to begin with, but am always looking for ways to cut weight. But I think there is something spiritual - for lack of a more descriptive word - as well. There is something to leaving what you are emotionally carrying behind you in the rear view mirror each time you travel.

My summer in the UK, from which I’ve just returned, was about processing and releasing some significant residual sadness I had been holding regarding my grandfather’s death. What began with writing THIS post, evolved into weeks of working through grief I didn’t realize still lingered in my body, through writing and meditation. Though I know there is still work to do with what emerged, I have been left with the gratifying feeling of having left something behind me. Something was taken out of my suitcase, released.

I like to think that the physical practice of releasing objects primes me for the spiritual practice, and perhaps vice versa. I look forward to seeing what my next trip (whenever that may be… I’m open for fall guest lecture bookings… hint hint) helps me let go of.

In the mean time - here’s a dreamy, singing cardinal.