Even a short road trip can go more smoothly if you can remember those comfort items. Laura shares.
“And God said, ‘Let the waters under the sky be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear.’ And it was so. God called the dry land Earth, and the waters that were gathered together He called Seas. And God saw that it was good” (Genesis 1:9-10).
It may be impossible not to think of our creator when we are in the beauty of nature.
I was recently reminded of this while on a family vacation.
We spent a week at the beach. The vast, blue ocean greeted me each morning as I went looking for shells before the summer heat became unbearable.
I also found this morning time perfect for praying. God, thank You for this beautiful day, was a common prayer I said silently in my mind.
Vacations are not always easy. In fact as I write this I am in a car with two teenagers, a 12-year-old, and a husband who has to do the entire drive solo, as I am only capable of driving an hour at a time.
And sitting in a car for eight hours produces symptoms that prevent me from driving. We are a mere 90 minutes from home, but it seems like forever.
This is my third big vacation since dysautonomia snuck in to my life–all after my pacemaker implant. I marvel at the fact I can travel and thank God for this blessing.
But traveling does not come without preparation and stressors. Packing more than a week of medications in itself takes a chunk of time, as forgetting a medicine would be harmful.
Here are a few other things I have learned that may be helpful if you are traveling during the upcoming holiday season, even for a short trip:
Bring a sweater and blanket in the car for weather changes, whether from air conditioning/heat or nature.
Carry medical identification and a list of medications/doctor’s numbers with you.
Bring little snacks and drinks, as well as peppermint candies to help ward off nausea.
Remember your handicapped parking permit if you have one.
If you can read while traveling bring a book you have been looking forward to enjoying.
Music may also help.
Rest upon arrival and throughout the trip. Without rest we often crash physically, which makes our symptoms worse.
And remember to thank God for your blessings, including the beautiful surroundings.
Prayer: Dear Lord, the world is vast and has much beauty. Help us to remember to thank You when we have successes in addition to seeking Your help when we are troubled. Amen.
About the author:
Laura Seil Ruszczyk lives in New York with her husband and three kids. She retired from her job as an elementary school counselor in 2012. She has a neurological condition, dysautonomia, which is a deregulation of the autonomic nervous system. She enjoyed her recent trip to North Topsail Beach, NC.
What tips have you learned for successful traveling?
This is “There is Power” with Lincoln Brewster. I chose this song because every time I am embarking on a trip I truly doubt I will be able to do it. I consider all the scenarios about what could go wrong, who will be disappointed in me, and Plan B. But I also have learned to “go for it” and pray a whole bunch. I ask God that if it is His will for me to be there, He will provide the way. That doesn’t mean it is an easy trip or that bed are soft or that my body doesn’t become sore. That’s just life. But God has gotten me to where He wants me to be… and I believe He will for you too. Hugs, -Lisa
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 