Leaving a place with no idea of return is both exhilarating and daunting. One’s mindset can have a huge influence on how you then handle these two feelings. A few days ago when I was preparing to leave home, again, I had a mini break down of sorts. “Aaaahhhh, this isn’t fun anymore, I quit” was yelled upon entering just about every room of my parents house as I searched for things and packed up odds and ends. As my parents and youngest sister accompanied me to the airport my Dad shared a story of sorts. He told us of a friend of his that when traveling on vacation would not plan her route. She would merely pick her destination and drive in that direction. At first I was stunned. I could never do that. I am a planner. But the 7 hour flight I then boarded gave me additional time to ponder the idea and deeper meaning of the endeavor. Ive decided to implement this strategy. I know where I want to end up, not in specific geographical destination so much as end result. I know what kind of work I want to do, how I want to live my life and what I want and do put value in. So that’s the direction Im heading. I have no job. I have my minimal belongs split between what is currently packed in the two suitcases surrounding me, my aunt and uncles place in Nyon, Switzerland and my parents house. I know I want to work in the human rights and or development field. I have research to delve into and a dissertation to concoct. And this is the direction Im heading.

So as I sit in Stansted Airport with no idea of when or if I shall return to London, I sit content to watch the crowds go bye. People watching is a great skill one should know how to employ. I was taught by my mother, a great people watcher. Tour groups, couples, families, business persons and the single traveler wonder past as I sit on the floor, laptop in hand surrounded by my over the weight limit luggage wondering about my future and learning to be content in the moment.