Just go, C!
I'm Charity, a proud auntie, wine lover, semi-nerd, and dreamer who can't stay in one place for too long.
So, it's been just over a month since I left my job and a little over a week since I've started traveling. It feels like it's been at least a year's worth of changes!
I've done a good bit of journaling since I got here, and I was spending some time reading back through my entries the other day and thought I'd share some of the struggles I've had since this whole "journey" has started. I think I want people to understand that there is a more "real" side that you don't see in the pictures I post on Facebook or Instagram. And, I know I've wholly benefitted from reading other bloggers, particularly females, who've struggled with certain issues, so maybe I can return the favor for someone else out there who might feel the same way I do. I have a nasty habit of comparing myself to other people. I think this is fairly common, especially among women, but it's not a quality I'm particularly proud of. I really noticed it recently while I was hiking up a volcano in Tauranga (Mount Maunganui for those interested). Those of you who know me personally know that I am not the poster child for fitness and sveltiness. So considering this was an all-uphill hike, I had my work cut out for me. I caught myself feeling ashamed for having to pause every few minutes to catch my breath. My legs were burning; my already-weak knees were aching. All I wanted to do was get to the top so I could be done with it and enjoy the views at the top. I kept thinking about people who were younger than me, more fit than me, had more hiking stamina than me, and the list goes on. How much BETTER than me they were. Thankfully, the more nurturing side of myself (which I am trying very hard to develop more every day) caught my mind in the act and intervened. This isn't a competition. You're doing the absolute best YOU can. You could have easily just stayed in your room. But, you didn't. Good for you. You can always turn back if you want to. It's okay if you do. Guess what, everyone else around you is thinking the same thing about themselves. Hear all that huffing and puffing around you? Yeah, turns out you're not the only one benefitting from the cardio. I have to understand - and those of you who are relating to this right now, YOU have to understand - that each of us has our own unique journey. Some of us struggle more than others to get there. But, I have to imagine that those of us who struggle more tend to appreciate the results a lot more than those who just breeze through. The point is, I got to the top. Sure, it might have taken me a little longer than I wanted to get there, but damn it, I got there. And when I got back down and walked to this beach and took off my shoes, it felt really f*cking amazing.
9 Comments
Brenda Gibbs
12/2/2016 04:14:35 am
Beautiful!
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Carrington Cusick
12/2/2016 06:14:35 am
I've been in cross country shape and Krispy Kreme shape... I get it. We are our own worst enemy (Lit {unintended}). Glad to see you made it!
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Charity
12/2/2016 10:00:01 pm
Damn. A Krispy Kreme sounds so fkn good right now. HA!
Katie Kimbrough
12/2/2016 06:39:33 am
Charity!!! I'm so proud of what you are doing! I truly am envious of your adventures. Maybe one day I can be just like you and pick up and travel somewhere neat, not because I need to, but because I WANT to. The team misses you!
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Charity
12/2/2016 10:01:29 pm
Of course, I'm going to encourage you to take a trip sooner than later. One thing I've learned is that there is a trip out there for every person and every budget. Be careful though, it's more addictive than cocaine. Not that I know from experience. Tell the Homies I love them and miss them!!
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Kelley Weeks
12/2/2016 10:21:38 am
Charity you are beautiful and amazing inside and out! The will and determination to do what you are doing is amazing in itself, not many people could do what your doing. Always keep your head up and have the time of your life!!! I'm sure I've said it enough but soooooo jealous. Xxoo
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Charity
12/2/2016 10:02:24 pm
Thanks Kell - love you, girl. Thanks for the encouraging words. :)
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Adrienne Cusick
12/2/2016 10:41:56 am
Awesome post and so inspiring! You know how proud we are of you but it should be said we are the lucky people who get to experience (to some degree) this journey with you through your thoughts and pictures. I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge that this post made me pause a few times and reflect inwardly so thank you for that. Sharing your inner thoughts takes a certain level of bravery! Love ya girl!!
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Charity
12/2/2016 10:03:21 pm
You're my boy, Blue! Glad it is making a difference for someone besides myself. Tell Coop I'm missing his cocktails! Booze is very expensive here!!
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AuthorHi! I'm Charity. I'm from Omaha, Nebraska, USA. I quit my job in October 2016 to travel the world. Archives
June 2022
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