One must be willing to accept unknowns and risks to enjoy the benefits of exploring new places. Staying put feels infinitely easier and safer. By remaining in place, we believe we can maintain the stability of our comfortable routines and avoid unexpected pitfalls inherent to traveling. But the truth is that whether we physically travel or not, we are always on the move, like herded sheep.

Talking about our faith in God to others can be intimidating on many levels. We may feel awkward, unprepared, and vulnerable when presented with an opportunity to share. Why should we go beyond our comfort zones to tell other people the reason for our hope?

I often plan not out of wisdom and prudence but to reduce anxiety about the future. But no amount of good planning prepares me for "rogue waves," unanticipated and unwanted events that hit me out of nowhere.

We don’t develop separation anxiety - we are born with it. But the unease and stress that comes when we lose earthly loves – not just people, but beloved pets and even treasured comfort objects – illuminates our most significant need and longing.

Though I have spent tremendous energy banking on earthly things to anchor me, I have been known to casually release, or hold loosely, my trust in God.