I’m not a very touchy feely kind of person. Logic dominates my brain. But Charlotte’s Web, any dog movie where he passes away, or most of Nicholas Sparks novels will have me sobbing uncontrollably. Whatever. I don’t get it. Emotions are sticky and gross.

For the past month I have been saying a lot of goodbyes. Visiting friends and family for the ‘last time’ before I leave has led to some surprisingly sappy moments. I cherish the people in my life so dearly that not being able to see them regularly makes me uncomfortable. Everyone has been so supportive, so positive, pushing me forward in moments of doubt, being my cheerleaders and having my back against the naysayers. I am so fortunate to have this circle of people. I know it’s a simple ‘see you later’ but to me it’s leaving behind my foundational rocks. Honestly, I wasn’t prepared for this. To the point where I have hidden actual tears. I love you guys so much.

I received this message from a dear friend today and it touched me to my core:

“WHAT IF you see things you’ve never seen before? WHAT IF you grow and better yourself during this adventure? WHAT IF you meet the love of your life while traveling? WHAT IF you have the time of your life, doing what you love? — adventuring, exploring, learning, meeting new people!
There are realistic risks, sure … but any single one of us could have something bad happen to us just by leaving our house, right where we are… so if you have the zest for life and the opportunity to enjoy it to the fullest, then you seize it with all your might … and that’s exactly what you’re doing!! Living the dream!
You’re going to have an amazing time! Safe travels and CHEERS, to you!”

This is the kind of person you need in your tribe. To you Nathalie, I am ever so grateful.

As amazing of an adventure this ride is going to take me on there is also going to be the balancing emotions: loneliness, fear, frustration, maybe a little anger, maybe even self-doubt although I’m a fairly confident person. To counter these feelings I’ve asked my friends and family to randomly message me every now and again to give me that extra piece of stability that I may be lacking on any given day. And I know they will because they are more than I could ever ask for.

Yin and yang and finding equilibrium in everyday life. Thank you yoga, mindfulness and meditation for this superpower. Just breathe.