Welcome New Subscribers
Let me start by saying a big “hello” to all 34 of the brand new Big Story Living newsletter subscribers. Welcome! It’s such a pleasure to be allowed into your inbox to inspire you towards travel as both a joy and a spiritual practice. This space is full of bits of everything from budget travel tips and tricks to vulnerable storytelling and opportunities to engage with our community in the form of journeys. You’re invited to join us as we travel across the globe, around a city block or even into your coziest chair. With a little bit of intentionality, travel can happen anywhere. Enjoy!
The Gift of Space
I’m leaving on the next Big Story Living journey in six short days, and I keep catching myself with a big smile on my face as I check in with those traveling with me. Can you guess what has been the consensus that’s making me so happy? Everyone seems to be looking forward to having almost zero agenda.
And as they choose to leave space in each day, the freedom and anticipation of the unplanned moments ahead seem to be keeping everyone on the edge of their seats as they prepare to leave.
I feel like such a proud momma. :)
You see, I started Big Story Living with the idea that travel can be a beautiful spiritual practice if the table is intentionally set for wide-open space and wandering at the slower pace of Jesus.
That’s why when someone travels with me, their only big commitments are to be a kind and respectful travel partner, to travel together from place to place with the team, and to lodge together. Other than that, every other moment from the time they wake until they go to sleep is theirs to do with as they please. I give BSL travelers the gift of space. And I have seen that when a traveler is free and brave, open to having no agenda or preconceived ideas about a place, and able to tap into their greatest desires every day… the Spirit within them has a way of saying “hello” in the most profound of ways.
BSL journeys can be faith journeys, yes. But I don’t teach theology or have prayer time or worship nights. No. I simply trust that the Spirit within each traveler knows what they need far better than I do. I set the table, offer space, guide towards curiosity, and get out of the way.
That’s how I solo travel, too…with very little agenda, lots of space, and an expectation that as my senses awaken to the wonder of sights, smells, tastes, and people, Jesus will capture me just as I need to be captured. He will send me in the right direction towards my personal grand adventure both “out there” and within.
So I’m smiling today because an idea developed from my own personal travel experiences of wandering open-handed has rubbed off on my travel friends.
They are all talking about not over-researching or over-planning. They have all expressed that they are hopeful for the wonder and beauty that is going to meet them in the intentional spaces they are opening up. They’re a little bit afraid and a lot excited…as it should be.
And…they won’t miss a thing.
I can’t wait to share the journey with you in the coming weeks.
Speaking of the Journey
My travel begins with my husband, Kevin, in Krakow and Prague. Then I set off to Seville, Spain, to meet a small group of lovely friends whom I get to be with as they take their very first “solo-ish journey.” Watch this space and follow along on Instagram @bigstoryliving to see our adventures.
Happy Travels!
Amy
PS…Here’s an added bonus if you scrolled this far
Let me know if you ever need help planning your next “almost free” adventure. It really is possible!