I’m terrible at goodbyes. I never know what to say. I’m never ready. I already cried saying goodbye at work, once was enough.

I’m moving.. out of Texas.

I’ve spent the past few weeks making my rounds, saying goodbye to friends and their families who have become my family. It’s been bittersweet, but the worst part has been packing. Moving out of state is a different kind of packing. I usually use movers, but they couldn’t even help.

My initial plan was to put the larger pieces of furniture in storage and take just what I needed. I thought, I may need them when I get back, if I come back. I was hoping to transition to a more minimalistic way of life for now. As I was talking to a friend, I shared this plan with her, and she politely responded, “Why don’t you just sell it all?” Initially, I was offended. These are my things! Things I’ve hand-picked with the money I worked hard for!

Then I felt a weight in my chest, it was attachment. I looked around my apartment and thought to myself, these are materialistic things. I’ve been blessed to be able to afford these items, but they are not mine. I do not own them. I don’t own anything. Everything I have belongs to God and is because of God. So I decided, 4 days before my move, to sell e v e r y t h i n g.

First off, I was a fool for coming up with a plan and thinking things would go as planned. The possession I felt over my things was a billboard with blinking lights that read “Danger Ahead!” It was a sign that I was becoming too consumed with things that are replaceable. It was a sign that my value was misplaced. So I sold all my things. Whatever I couldn’t sell, I gave away. I felt lighter. I felt free.

Travel Tip #5: When it starts to feel heavy, it’s time to let go.

Take a moment to look around your space. How attached are you to your things? Are you comfortable with that level of attachment? Why or why not? Be honest with yourself, otherwise, it benefits no one.

Pack light,

Mai