Airplane life lessons

Wow. I can hardly believe that it has been over a month since I have posted anything. I knew that this summer was going to fly by but I think I underestimated the rate at which it would happen. I am just a little over 2 weeks into summer break and just returned home from my second trip of the summer. I spent an amazing week in Colorado to start the summer off; there is nothing quite like the mountains to make you realize the beauty that surrounds us. My second trip was a family vacation with my dad and sister to Puerto Rico. We spent a week at a beautiful resort and soaked up the sun (I soaked up a little too much) and enjoyed some relaxation time together. On this trip to Puerto Rico I got to do one of my favorite things--yes I do love laying out on the beach, but I am actually referring to the flying part of the trip. I LOVE taking airplanes to various destinations. Actually, if I was to pick my ideal situation, I would get the chance to choose my own seat on the plane next to someone I didn't know. Think about it. Sitting next to a complete stranger by choice...this is where an explanation comes into play. I have gone on many trips whether it be with family, friends or by myself and I have had the opportunity to sit next to some very interesting people. It is crazy how much people are willing to open up to complete strangers about their lives-- family, struggles, beliefs and values. In addition, I have been helped out by many kind strangers when I got stuck in both Cincinnati and San Antonio for a night by myself due to plane problems. Complete strangers have bought me a cab, checked me into hotels and taken me out to dinner. So much for not associating with strangers! Luckily, I have chosen good ones to put my trust in! I think that's how it is a lot of the times with God. We sometimes feel like He is a stranger--someone we can't relate to because we haven't allowed ourselves the chance to get to know Him. The fact of the matter is, God wants to reach out to us even if we haven't made an effort to know Him yet. I think that we are intrigued by this idea but sometimes take a step back in fear of what others say, or our own inner thoughts. Take that leap of faith. Step outside of your comfort zone. Learn more about the people that surround you. Pretend your airplane ticket has seat 27A on it. Now picture God coming and sitting next to you with ticket 27B. Strike up a conversation. Learn what you can. Be open and honest about yourself and your life. However, this flight isn't one that will only last a few hours...this flight is one that will last the rest of your life. Don't plug in your iPod or nap through the trip; God has an amazing life to tell you all about!