Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it- Buddha
Stop 1:Charlotte to Miami
The American Airlines check-in desk gentleman was a true gentlemen. He helped check in all my bags no matter the weight or size. He congratulated me on the big journey and had me on my way. I waited with my mom a few more minutes so that we could soak in our last moments together, again as if I were dying. We said our goodbyes with few tears and more excitement this time. I got to say goodbye to my tear stricken dad one last time as my mom got into the toyota avalon and drove away. I know the adventure had begun and could fill my insides swell with excitement.
Plane was right on time. Found the window seat next to a lady that spoke no english and thought, no really the journey has begun now. With the sense of relief having said the final goodbyes to my family, bags packed, and “to do” list complete. Having not slept in forever, I feel asleep for the entire ride. “Welcome to Miami” the flight attendant announced over the loud speaker.
Stop 2: Miami to Quito, Ecuador
The air is blowing on my face but am so exhausted I really don’t mind. I am sitting on the window sit, on a row of three with no one else beside me. Ironic that I felt alone with clarity that this journey is all me. Not that I haven’t had help on the way but am the sole founder of the idea to move to such a beautiful country like Ecuador. I am excited but also feel somewhat empty from the build up of getting the “to do” list complete. I’ve had 6 weeks to prepare for this moment of leaving the USA and am feeling such relief that is finally here.
Stop 3: Quito to Ibarra, Ecuador
Plane ride complete. Standing in line for immigration feeling so nervous. Racing thoughts of “What will they say? Will they let me through? Are they going to accept all of my bags? Who is waiting on the other side of the door for me to take me home? Is there going to be anyone? O dang, this is my home!” I take a deep breath swearing these thoughts from my mind. I settle in the comfort that I have been drawn to Ecuador for over a year now and I belong here.
Pass right through all checkpoints with ease, walking out of airport and true “ecuadorian style” there is no one waiting for me. This has happened to me before in which I panicked but this time is different. I pull over to the side in the newly built airport and let the wait begin. “Should I call?? Alison be patient, they(whom ever it may be) will be here.” Once again feeling alone with clarity, this journey is all me. I wait patiently seeing people reunited with significant others, brothers, sisters, aunts, and uncles. Reinforcing who ever is coming is family and my moment will come soon enough. Finally turning, seeing a good friend smiling knowing he was late to pick me up. We embrace and my aloneness evaporates. With a gentle release he states “Welcome home”.
#thebigmove