Traveling remains my favorite hobby which allows me to explore different locations and cultures. Thus when I get a fresh perspective of life and it rejuvenates my creative mind. When I feel overwhelmed in my life journey, being refreshed my mind, body and soul does wonders.

When you come of age you set goals and ways on how you plan to achieve them. Core values may act as your compass which you refer to for direction. As a Christian I find that testimonials from fellow brethren helps me focus on my goal and encourage me to keep on the path. I am assured of victory in my journey of life. The Holy Scriptures continually points me to the way God requires as we follow the example of Christ.

What I can say is, if you want to embark on any journey you must know exactly where you are, where you need to go, why you need to go there and how you will get there. Sometimes when you lose sight of your final destination you get carried away by some whose sense of direction looks fascinating and more appealing than yours. They may sell it to you with more vigor that you second guess your path and that’s how many have been diverted from the journey they intended to take when they packed their bags.

Such is life. If you are a little confused, remind yourself why you began the journey and get to the root of the matter.

Knowing your present location and where you intend to be is one of the most important things to be aware of before you decide to travel. A conviction as to why to go there and the benefits thereof normally push one to embark on a journey. Maybe those who have travelled the way brought highlights of wealth or inspiration. Maybe they instilled the interest creating curiosity in you. Better still it may be a destination you have always wanted to see since you were young. Whatever the reason, I advise you to pack your bags and essentials and get ready for an adventure.

A journey implies that one is embarking on either a short or long distance trip.   You would need to prepare for it bearing in mind the necessities to make the travel a success. You might need an overnight backpack or something larger to accommodate more stuff. Some people forget the small things which seem insignificant but prove most important- the toiletries. Like these we find some qualities easily sidelined but in the long run cause decay and pain which floss won’t be able to fix.

Everyone has found some form of advice from a variety of sources which shaped them to be who they are now. Keep them safe and close to your heart. These can be kindness, compassion, honesty, courtesy, truthfulness, humility and so much more.

Rarely is life’s journey smooth, unless you already know what will happen next and you have made prior arrangements for it when it happens. But alas! We all experience life as it occurs, no delayed matches here! But to a certain extent, having people in high places always help. In my experience believe in God, you are fore- warned of challenges or circumstances which may occur and possible solutions to them. Sometimes we meet with pain, fear, worry, sadness, hopelessness and but still God’s love helps us to conquer all.

Some people’s experiences also help us be courageous, life serves you with a different meal daily. Daily lessons are learnt but the most important is self-awareness and knowledge. The person I see in the mirror daily is exciting and I can’t wait to know her more. Try to make life enjoyable for yourself as you exhibit traits other people would like to know. Be approachable, smile, take time to listen to others in this your journey of life.

Understand that everyone is on their own journey and you may meet some going along your path. You must therefore respect and be kind to all just as you would have them do to you. We are one people after all. The late reggae artist Lucky Dube in his song ‘The Way It Is’ speaks of how you must be good to the people on your way up because you might meet them on your way down. Basically it reminds us we need people to get ahead.

If I have walked a certain path with broken glass I may be courteous enough to tell the person I meet to mind the glass. It would be a good thing to do since I know the pain of glass on bare foot. I wouldn’t want anyone to go through the same ordeal. But when we think we are the ‘wise men from the east’ who know everything, we will go round in circles of life before can we realize we are lost.

As you journey through uncertainty, may the uncharted territory not scare you but approach carefully yet open-mindedly? If you occasionally close yourself inside a closet or sit with yourself in conversation you will remind yourself where you want to go and why. A goal oriented someone will get things done unlike the one who consults the community for advise without a single idea. Don’t get me wrong, advice is good but ponder on a few possibilities and take time to critically analyze before accepting any idea.

One needs to mentally prepare as well. Maybe you might be expected to climb the Kilimanjaro and must conjure much strength, determination and resilience. The body may be fit for the journey but the mind might not be in tune with the whole idea. Body, mind and soul must be aligned if success is anticipated.

Well I just had to step away from the path to encourage you. I hope it helps as it does me. Next time you see me breathless, wounded, or bleeding on the side of the road, lend a hand. You might just save my life. And so let me get my bag and walk on through the journey of life. Travel well! See you out there!