On the eve of my first ever trip to Italy to offer a painting retreat, I offer this,
A Prayer for Travelers
May we be open to the lessons of leaving a familiar place.
May we be open to the lessons of arriving in a new place.
May we be reminded of how connected we all are wherever we are.
May we stretch into unexpected moments with a deep sense of openness and ease that all is well and all will e well.
May we be protected within and without from anything that would separate us from love.
May we dwell fully in the present (even the bustling present).
May we be alert and present to the sights, sounds, flavors and energy of this new space.
May we be curious about what love wants to teach us as we travel and explore.
May our bodies be healthy, strong, flexible and resilient.
May we be generous and respectful of locals and fellow travelers.
May we be kind to ourselves and follow the ebb and flow of the need for adventure and safety, connection and solitude.
May we be reminded of the beauty of humanity and this earth wherever we are.
Amen.