We don’t do this often so it feels somewhat strange, this rendezvous in the Sheraton at the Toronto Airport.
My husband’s flight from Vancouver yesterday was delayed as a change to a smaller plane and fresh crew were required. That meant that I arrived earlier than him, checked myself in and waited. It felt like something from a movie script and the thought crossed my mind that our meeting may mean a solo flight to the Middle East for us both. The plot thickened, at least in my imagination.
Now that we are together and the uncertainty of timing is settled we can indulge in looking toward the adventure.
Yes, we read the papers and are well aware of Israel’s bristly relations with Iran at present. Since my first visit to the Holy Land in 1979 I cannot recall a time when it was a good and perfectly safe time to go.
People ask me if there is a pilgrimage element to our trip and I suppose for a Christian there is. Traditionally pilgrimages have not been ‘safe’ endeavors. I love to travel and so the risks are acceptable at this point. Considerable thought goes into each aspect of our journey and we don’t intentionally put ourselves in harm’s way, that’s for sure.
You may be asking, why go?
Bottom line for me? I travel because I love people. I want to experience all sorts of people, in all sorts of settings, from all sorts of backgrounds. The gift of travel is the expansion of the mind and person. Travel has brought about change in me that is precious in its openness and its wonder at humanity and God’s creative imagination. Humility and gentleness are qualities I long for in myself and travel is helping me get there.
Today we fly to Tel Aviv and pray for peace in the Middle East because, today it’s personal.
Will look forward to being able to travel with you via your blog. This instant communication is wonderful – you won’t seem so far away. You can be sure of our prayers for safety, good health and a wonderful time. Much love, Mom & Dad S.