Intentionality

 I’m two months away from my journey to the Camino! I’m so excited and anxious to begin! But, I’ve still got a lot of preparing to do! I’ve been walking as much as possible between work and other activities. So, I think I’ll be ready for the days of walking. But, we’ll see.

A few months ago, I wrote about focusing on simplicity and the mindset of living simply. Since then, I’ve been focusing on gathering the things I will need for the trip. So, as I gather with a lens of simplicity, my focus has become gathering with intentionality and valuing the things I will need. 

What does that mean? Well, I’ve never been fitted for a backpack before… but now I have been… twice! And, it’s amazing how the weight I’m carrying feels so different with the right backpack! There are things I thought about bringing but then decided weren’t necessary. I have walked in all of the clothes I considered bringing just to make sure they would be comfortable on long walks. I didn’t buy much. I’ve been gathering what I have. But, what I have bought has been researched and tested to make sure it’s what I want to include in my 13 pounds I’m carrying around for days. 

As I began thinking about my packing, I realized two important things that I can carry into my everyday life. 

First of all, everything I pack, I am bringing intentionally. It’s thought out, tested, and has a purpose. If I live my life that way, then I should live intentionally- having a plan and a purpose. Additionally, I should think about my actions and test them out when I can instead of jumping into things without thinking. 

Second, I need to realize the value of everything in my life. The people around me, the treasures I have, and the things I get to do are all things God has blessed me with. Sometimes I get so busy that I forget to stop and appreciate them. But, just as the things I am packing are all the most important things I need to live for my two week adventure, there are things that I need to remember to value and show my gratitude for.

So, once again, as I am preparing for my journey, I am already learning! So, I can’t wait to experience the Camino journey in two months, but I feel like this journey has already started. It’s teaching me so much along the way!

So, where was God today? He is guiding me through as I prepare.

Blessings,

Jennifer