Truly a homebody, I love to travel. Why?
I’ve given that question a lot of energy in the past few weeks.
Since moving into my next chapter as a freelance musician (reminder: I’m not retired!), I’ve gratefully had many opportunities to travel during various seasons of the year. This is something I was seldom able to do working full-time within the schedule of academic and liturgical calendars.
Several months ago, my husband and I planned a week in Oaxaca, México, for his mid-March spring break from teaching.
This was way before most of us had heard of COVID-19. Once things heated up (so to speak) and as our departure date drew close, we almost cancelled the trip. After an honest and informative conversation with my brilliant doctor, we decided — with prudent precautions — to proceed as planned with our trip.
All of which intensified my question: Why?
Hierva de Agua mineral pool
So many unspeakably beautiful sights to see
The mineral pools of Hierve de Agua, high atop the natural rock formations which resemble giant cascading waterfalls, formed from fresh-water springs.
The magnificent churches and cathedrals, whose unique grandeur is equally matched by the fascinating histories each temple has to tell as well as the devotion of those who enter to pray.
The stunning gardens, the beautiful tiles, the diverse, creative work of artisans and artists, the astounding textiles — all created with accumulated knowledge and skill of imaginative generations.
So much delicious food to enjoy
(Admittedly, it was a mistake to step onto the scale the morning after our return.)
The colors and taste of the various mole sauces, the freshness of herbs and spices combined in ways that delighted my palate, surprising ways to prepare various meats and vegetables that were delectable.
And of course, los chapulines … the grasshoppers. Okay, not my favorite thing, but I’m glad I tried them, and they’re 72% protein!
Perspective
For me, traveling is about experiencing cultures vastly different from my own, learning about the histories of other peoples, how that has informed that country’s contemporary life, and how that relates to my life as a proud citizen of the USA and also a global citizen.
Talk about a whole lot of perspective on our fragile human existence!
