The Unfamiliar

As I look over my life, I realize that for most of it, I have been somewhat curious. Especially about new places, which has given me the opportunity to push the boundaries of my "safe and known" life experiences. I have finally accepted the fact that I desire to experience as much of life as I am able and to learn more about myself in the process.

Sometimes that learning is very, very uncomfortable as I allow myself to stretch into unfamiliar territory and push myself into doing things I have never done before. Then I get to watch myself - and listen to my inner voices as they either attempt to keep me from moving forward or support me as I tentatively do so. Fortunately, the encouraging voices usually win and, off I go exploring.

One aspect of this learning is that I have (finally) become comfortable in asing for help or assistance. People usually are more than willing to help - more than willing to share their experiences - more than willing to shine light ahead on the path. Such is the case here in Baja.

I am in the process of developing a sweet friendship with a woman who has lived here 12 years. She has been more than willing to share her experiences and knowledge of "how things work" here in Baja, Mexico - and I am deeply grateful. There is an ever-present undercurrent of apprehension for me as I learn about this country and its customs (and laws) since I do not speak enough Spanish to be able to communicate and thus feel somewhat vulnerable. That vulnerability (or inner tension) is a good thing for it means that I am stretching; the more I stretch, the more (I feel) I am growing.

Yesterday, for example, I purchased a new cell phone here at the TelCel store. My friend accompanied me and guided me through the process. There are no "plans" here; each phone comes with a certain number of "free" pesos and then you purchase additional minutes with a phone card. The additional minutes are then entered into your phone. So, the only decision one must make is which phone to purchase - which, for me, was pretty easy: simple. No camera; no extra bells and whistles. In addition, there are several ways to telephone someone here (not just their numbers - but the manner in which you dial those numbers).

The least expensive way to speak with someone is cell to cell. So, that is why so many people use cell phones. To call a land-line from a cell is more expensive (and vice-versa). One of the local bi-monthly publications has an entire article this month on how to use phones here in Mexico.

Once we have experienced something new, the next time is easy is it not? That is why when you ask someone how to do something they usually say, "Oh - it's easy", because for them it is - they know how!

So, I am - every day - telling myself that whatever I encounter today that is unfamiliar is going to be easy. I am mentally preparing my mind - and thus the rest of me - to be more relaxed and comfortable in these foreign surroundings.

How are you stretching yourself? Or, are you holding on to the past and what is already known or familiar?

Blessings of joy,
Lynn