The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page
– Saint Augustine
The year of 2024, was my year of travel! In March 2024, I was guided to Hamburg, Germany. By the summer, the destination was Lisbon, Portugal for a family trip. When one travels, there is often a feeling of freedom, possibility and to dream. An underlying expectation that each journey will be full of positive experiences, people and culture. However, what does one do when this expectation is not fulfilled?
What guided me to Hamburg, Germany? It was my sister whom I was to visit in Germany. Her family are expats and have lived all over the world. Truly an enriching way to live life! Germany is a country that piqued my curiosity. Historically I knew one day I would venture to this vast land. Hamburg was like a European suburb. It offered an aesthetic of culture, innovative architecture and was surrounded by the sea.
Visiting my sister was an enriching experience. This trip was preordained, as I felt we were supposed to help one another heal and evolve. The reality was, we let our vulnerabilities be seen, spoke from the soul and showed up as ourselves. Germany, especially Hamburg, actually shattered my soul. I am a “wanderlust” and this was hard for me to grasp. The reality of this vacation was that I experienced a cold culture and racial tension. I was not accepted, as I am a visible minority. I became quiet and had to go inwards for reflection. I admire my sister as she has learned German, become resilient by being in another country and has found her way. I am certain there are many individuals who have experienced what I had. Gratitude, counting my daily blessings kept my overall energy intact.
I have always been an avid reader, books are my source of inspiration. I picked up a few novels before heading abroad. I read an incredible novel called “Brida” – by Paulo Coelho. This novel assisted with understanding my soul, I never knew about. That there is a light which always shines no matter what circumstances are thrown our way. The narrative was depicted in Ireland. The storyline was centered around a young woman who was discovering her innate healing gifts – as a new age witch. I have always been drawn to Ireland and know I will venture there at the precise timing.
When you find your path, you must not be afraid. You need to have sufficient courage to make mistakes. Disappointment, defeat, and despair are the tools God uses to show us the way
― Paulo Coelho, Brida
During my travels to Germany – prayer, yoga, meditation and listening to the channeling of Kyron helped me stay nourished. My perspective was that the world is changing and kindness will always prevail. Love needed to be sprinkled on Hamburg. I ventured to Berlin which was a breath of fresh air. My sister and I traveled by train, the European way! We visited galleries, ate beautiful food and saw historical monuments that were embedded deep into my soul.
Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light. – Yogi Bhajan
By July the forces of nature brought me to Lisbon for a family reunion. The energy of Portugal was of light heartedness. I had never been to Portugal and being by the ocean was a healing experience. The moment I stepped off the airplane in Portugal, I knew instantaneously that this would be a unique adventure. The people, history and climate was entrenched with love. You could not help but feel a sense of awe everywhere you went. We celebrated my Mother’s 75th Birthday, ate Portuguese tarts daily and ventured to cities close by. I felt carefree, alive and one with life. Portugal, had a lasting imprint not only on myself but with the entire family. Portugal felt like a hug for the soul, one could feel a vibration of spiritual energy.
Live your life by a compass, not a clock – Stephen Covey
Traveling to Europe last year brought contrasting energies. Germany was eye opening and had a deeper significance. The influence of migration and the socio-political structure has shifted the country not only in Germany but worldwide. I acknowledge that my expectations were not met, and that is ok. I was vulnerable, suffering and kept faith. That one experience will not hinder me from going back. As I am drawn to water, it felt that I was being restored. The universe propelled me to Germany to shine light on a country that needed love. I too had to shed old skin and grow. The relationship with myself was being replenished. Portugal in hindsight was the re-birthing of a new version of who I am. As I felt my soul shattered in Germany, in Portugal I collected those pieces like a tapestry and wove them together.
Our souls are drawn to certain cities, countries and continents for a divine reason unbeknownst to us at the time. Be it past-life or curiosity, there is something mystical with traveling. The soul holds an invisible compass that guides one to particular places. For anyone who is a wanderlust, or a carefree soul – do not let anyone or anything dim your light. Allow this powerful phrase from Mel Robbins to guide you on your way in life – “Let them”.
Your relationship with yourself is the foundation for everything in your life
― Mel Robbins
Butterfly Spirit! 