True wealth is the ability to let go of possessions

I haven't left, but my journey has already begun. I submitted my Peace Corps application in August 2009 and received an invitation to serve about two weeks ago. Now, I'm headed to Malawi in just three and a half weeks! Tonight, my first blog in this series is being written from my parents' house where I have moved until I depart for my 27 months of service. 

I have learned to let go of so many things. That process has been a little difficult but also very freeing. I've kept more than I meant to, but I sold, tossed, or gave away a lot. Now, everything I own except for clothes, toiletries and a few books is tucked away in the basement. I'm so thankful for family and friends who have taken my gently used items and have helped me move. I know who my true friends are when they wake up early to help me rouse the napping guy at the dump so we can toss the mattress! 

Last week, I had a party to give away my things and one of my lovely friends gave me the quote that became the title of this post. I have been thinking about it all week and how it applies to so many areas of life. Just when I wanted to hold onto that Hello Kitty alarm clock or the sweater I wear once a year, I would remember the quote and pass the items along. 

However, there are so many things I claim as my possessions that go beyond concrete items. In my role as grants writer, I sometimes want to hold onto my writing and protect it from critique. When I let go and put my work on the table, I gain so much more. I become a better writer by letting someone else help me see where my writing can be stronger. 

Right now, I'm collaborating on a dance piece for a show on February 13th. (If interested, contact me for show info.) The collaboration can be a tightrope act at times, even though all three of us love each other. What I noticed in my last rehearsal is that when I'm willing to let go of choreography and change sections of the piece I once loved, they become even better. It always surprises me that simple changes can make a huge difference. Sometimes, I just need a different point of view. I'm sure there are more times in my life when I seek to control and possess rather than let go. The first lesson for me on this journey is learning to let go. 

Now that I'm out of the apartment, the trip is becoming even more of a reality. I'm both excited and nervous. I know there are many more learning lessons to come and I expect I will never be the same.