I have come to an understanding within myself that I collect experiences and moments, not things. This is a practice that has been cultivated over the course of years, It started when I went off to college, I packed all of my things into 4 suitcases and flew to Arkansas for the start of my freshman year, I knew no one. I was taken completely out of the element and environment I had been born and raised in. There was a long and hard learning curve to come that I was not prepared for. I wanted to find safety in the things that I had, things that were familiar to me. I eventually realized that often we seek to stay in the familiar, not allowing the Spirit to do what He will in the uncomfortable places.
I began to realize that my safety and security was not found in things, in places, or even in the people around me. My life is in Christ. That is why I started the blog anywherewithjesus.wordpress.org . That is why I chose to pack a bag and walk across america. .That is why I have chosen the World Race. I do not live a life dictated by the whims of the fashion industry, nor the outdoor industry, or the environmentally friendly granola influencers. My life is to be a collection of experiences and adventures consistent with the “ life abundant” that is cited in scripture. My life is to be lived moment by moment, finding joy in the rain as well as the sunshine. Seeking to worship with each action. Inviting others in, leaving space for grace, and holding myself accountable to live in the freedom offered in Christ.
As I distance myself I think of the things that I am surrounded by. What do the things I deem worthy of remaining in my life say about me? What does the lifestyle I live speak to others about what I value?
I have done quite a bit of minimizing in my short life, and I find that with fewer things around to distract, it is easier to remain focused on the things that matter. The things that I choose to keep around become more significant in my life.Routines are easily found, and the quiet and simple life comes easily. The focus shifts from managing all of the things that you have accumulated, to curating a life that is productive for the kingdom. Practicing good stewardship of both the few articles kept as well as increasing conscientiousness of the impact consumption has on the earth, and society as a whole.
I have lived some of my most fulfilling moments when carrying my life on my back. It has been weighing on my mind as I sit in my apartment in pseudo quarantine. One thing I count as a blessing is that my job is deemed “healthcare” and is not going to be cut, I am not going to be sent home or laid off no matter how bad this gets. If I get the virus I will be quarantined for 2 weeks, and my job will be waiting when I get back. As I am limited to my apartment outside of working hours I am spending my time looking at the small accumulation that has occured as I stayed in one place for 10 months. For 10 months I have been in the same apartment, same job. All of this is about to change, and I am looking to declutter. Why? All of the reasons cited above. I have little in comparison to many, but that isn’t the point. The point is to live intentionally, and I know that there are some additions that I did not intentionally bring into my home.
I am excited to move once more. To have a clean start. To go through the things accumulated, see what things and memories I am holding too tightly to. As I take everything out of its place I see more clearly what the purpose and intention of the things are, and the thoughts and intentions attached to them are. Too often the intention is to please man. It is not necessity, nor ease, but to manipulate the attitude of mad towards me. To cover up who I am, who I have been. To deceive those closest to me.
It is a whole being activity to declutter. And it feels good. It feels light. When facades are shattered, and you are authentically you. WHen you are laid bare before the father, and he accepts you. When the blood of Christ washes pure, regardless of the depth of depravity. It feels light when my surroundings match the person I strive to be. Match the way Christ sees me. I am loved, provided for, able to provide hospitality out of my abundance, but humble in my existence.
I am excited to live out of a backpack again. The nomadic lifestyle appeals to the wanderer in me. It makes the blessings God brings so obvious. It puts me in a position to be blessed and to see answered prayer, it is a lifestyle of faith. And I long to one day be able to live a life where I live by faith despite having more than a backpack to my name. Something I am excited to grow in as I walk through this ever changing uncertain life.
