I was struck by one realization more than any other while making my way to Iowa. As I passed through town after town I became conscious of the world outside of my own in a way that I have never before. I thought about the millions of people, who, like me, have lived their entire lives in their hometown. Some, barely leaving its boundaries, much less crossing state lines – or into different countries. Someone recently told me that something crazy like 75% of Americans do not have a passport. This really shocked me as I have found my journey has led me to want to explore crossing as many boundaries as possible.
I feel good here – in spite of all the mental trepidation – all the fears that threatened to pull me back and prevent me from moving forward. I am here. Just me. Away from everything that made me feel safe and comfortable. And yet, I feel safe and comfortable…peaceful even. I give thanks…
