Joy Ride Musing: Savoring the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Alexander den Heijer said, "Happiness is not found at the finish line. There isn't even a finish line. Life is not a race to be finished; it's a dance to be danced."
RVing is serving as a perfect analogy for this metaphor. The joy and happiness of this RVing adventure hasn't been arriving at a destination or crossing a final mile. It's in the dreaming, planning, winding roads, detours, breathtaking views and experiences, quiet contemplative times, restful moments, breakdowns and disasters that have turned into stories, and all the people we meet and travel with along the way. These experiences are the dance and heart of this joy ride.
Too often it seems focus is on the arrival, the next big thing, milestone, goal, a destination, or achievement. Experience is making it clear that the real magic is happening between the initial dreams and the so-called finish lines.
Even in my powerlifting days, winning or setting records was only momentarily exciting and upon reflection never the real thrill. It was truly the relentless training, the camaraderie, meaningful relationships, the setbacks, and the incremental personal growth along the way that made the journey. This collection of individuals and experiences are not just part of the trip; they are the journey.
The only real finish line in this life will be death. Since that's the case, the question I am asking myself is: "Why rush? Why live for tomorrow, some fleeting next moment, or destination when I am blessed with life and the opportunity to be fully present and soaking it all up?"
And as the crazy person I am, I answer myself by reciting a portion of Dylan Thomas' poem, "'Do not go gently into that good night...' continue to dream, set a course, set big goals that scare you, and strive to be the best human you can. But however tempting it might be, don't miss the dance. Be fully conscious for every twist and turn, every challenge, every sunrise and sunset, and each nuance. Revel in all of the feels: delightful, exquisite, hard, or painful because they are reminders that you are still in the dance."
Hi Lynette, I trust you both are doing well. Your post truly touched me. We've had the pleasure of full-time travel, and I've finally reached a point of deep appreciation for all of it – the highs, the lows, and everything in between. I understand that each day brings something new, so I strive to live fully in the present moment. I'm incredibly grateful for the past 14 years and eagerly anticipate the years ahead.