Wikipedia states that the term “ebb and flow” means are two phases of the tide or any similar movement of water. The ebb is the outgoing phase, when the tide drains away from the shore; and the flow is the incoming phase when water rises again. The terms are also common in figurative use. I am coming up on 3 full weeks here in South Florida. It is the support system within my life that has aided any moments of self doubt.
Yesterday I received an email from an old and dear friend at Penn State. She shared that a student (now alumni) graduated recently is is looking to move to the South Florida area. She has been following my journey via social media, specifically the “South-Burgher” series. She shared that she enjoys and lives vicariously through this experience. Honored by that comment, I am writing to tell you all that a relocation for someone at any age is a challenge.
Yes, I have my organized spreadsheets for the job search. Yes, I have hit the ground running with networking and spending time with the built in support system in Florida. Yes, I have done pretty darn well coming into an unfurnished apartment and with the help of the local support system, good credit (so proud of that) and some great second hand stores – the apartment is becoming something that I can call home. I am just writing to tell readers that I am doing well here in Florida. However, despite anyone’s perception of how strong I may be, there are moments of doubt and insecurity. A huge part and possibly the most difficult part of this project is the time when I actually start to slow down and be with Matt. Well, we are at that part of the journey.
Busyness can truly be a drug that many get addicted to so that they don’t have to face certain things in this world. Well, and again with the help of my support system, I have been taking time to breathe in and amongst the rush of a new chapter. Possibly not for everyone, I have been listening to the works of Thich Nhat Hanh. That is not misspelled. Even while doing things around the apartment or job hunting, I can get little soundbites that bring me back to the ground. No matter what, this journey, with its ebb and flow, is teaching me so much about myself. That, my friends, is why I am on it. If you have a stressful day or moment and need to breathe, Hanh’s work can be found on You Tube. Here is one on “The Practice of Inner Transformation.” Enjoy!