I have been waiting for something, not quite sure what, but something. Last month, I was sitting on Catalina Island with my laptop, phone, and a cinnamon brown sugar latte. I am writing. Writing while on a trip, on an island, with my laptop, and coffee. It is morning, not even 10:00 am and I am here typing away on a blank screen. Small island, slow living, small town feel, ocean air, walkable streets, quaint shops, and coffee. Watching the shop owners, keys in hand, unlocking their individual treasure chests of wares. Lloyd’s confectionery, Café Metropole, Catalina Seashell Co., beckoning visitors to come browse what they are peddling. And there’s me pecking away at the QWERTY keyboard putting letters together in such a way that this story will unfold right before your eyes.

On the ferry over, a couple sat next to me. They’ve been in California for 50 years; they consider themselves natives. This is their first cruise. Testing the waters with something short and local just to see if cruising is their thing. They booked a tour; I did not. The wife told the husband “She is exploring on her own.” Why yes, I am ma’am, exploring on my own.

For decades I dreamt of being a travel writer. Trip after trip, I would create a social media post, or a blog or two, but all out writing while on the vacation, no. What am I waiting for to step fully into my dream? While I strongly tell others to fulfill the desires of their heart, I take baby steps and retreat into a cave of silence. Do I not believe in myself? Do I not see value or relevance in my work? The other day I came across a post of the Indiana Mass Choir singing “In the beginning was the word….” I listened to it repeatedly. With every lyric, my understanding of the power of words deepened. The words take on a life of their own as they leap from my heart to the page.

As I sit on this island allowing the words to flow, I am telling myself that I can make this my life. I can use my words to touch hearts, to build connections, and to relay ideas. The trips are there; it is up to me to add the writing. Step out on faith by applying myself. I know God has incredible things in store. I trust that. Yes, Lord to opening my heart to this path. Trusting you as I trust myself.