Journey

Going through life is often referred to as a journey. 

Its metaphorical image evokes a road on which we travel: 

Intersections could represent the decisions we are faced with when, at different points in our lives, we need to choose a direction. 

Speed limits may indicate the degree of patience required for a particular experience. 

The number and diversity of places we see when travelling along that path could refer to the richness or to the fullness of the lives we live. 

People whom we encounter on the way are our various relationships and acquaintances. 

Sometimes the road is blocked temporarily due to roadwork, requiring us to make a detour, to take a different path – adopt an unforeseen solution. 

At other times the road may be destroyed because of natural disasters, forcing us to stop, to take the time - perhaps to reflect or to recover ourselves - until it is rebuilt. 

Or we may find ourselves going at full speed on a smooth highway without any obstacles; or, rather, strolling slowly and peacefully, taking it easy and enjoying the scenery on a picturesque country path. 

Some venture far and wide, thrilled to endeavour into the deep unknown; whilst others take comfort in the imagined 'security' and turn continuously around the same block.

The stages of each person's journey are unique. Timing is also a factor. 

Both outward-looking (travel, inspiration from experiences, encounters…) as well as inward-looking (self, spiritual, personal truth…) aspects of a journey are complementary and equally important to our progress. 

Outward-Looking Journey 

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page." 

– Saint Augustine

In ‘non-pandemic times’, we literally step out of our comfort-zone whilst travelling. We are exposed. While we face the unknown, we are forced to overcome our fears and learn to adapt ourselves in cultures that are not necessarily familiar to us. We remind ourselves that 'our way' of doing or interpreting things is not 'universal': one thing is being aware of the theory and the other is having to actually apply it on-the-spot! We gain inspiration and knowledge from the people we meet along the way. Being in contact with diverse people encourages us to view our perspectives from different angles and to express ourselves taking into account the new culture and, possibly, even another language. Praying that we be free to travel soon in a new world order. 

In one of his many quotes, the early theologian and philosopher, Saint Augustine, refers to how fundamental the outward-looking aspect of a journey is and how one's life can be richer in content as a result of travelling: "The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page." 

Inward-Looking Journey 

"The greatest traveller is not the one who has made 10 trips around the world, but the one who did it once around himself." – Mahatma Gandhi 

Consciously or unconsciously, each individual embarks on his or her personal internal journey through life. The degree to which a person learns to discover, know and accept him- or herself shall also partially determine the fulfilment he or she may experience. The journey towards one's 'personal truth' is probably the most complex and at the same time the most rewarding of journeys. The vast notion of 'spirituality' - which of course may transcend any type of institutional religious affiliation - plays an integral role in the inward-looking journey. 

This is well expressed in Mahatma Gandhi's quote: "The greatest traveller is not the one who has made 10 trips around the world, but the one who did it once around himself." 

Both the inward- and outward-looking journeys meet, influence and nourish each other in our quests in life. 

The beauty is that the vast part of our pursuit is in our own hands – even in times of pandemic! We are responsible.

About the author: Jarmila Zá?ická is a multilingual Czech-Australian global citizen having lived and worked on numerous continents - with Germany the current stop on her exhilarating life journey. She is the founder, owner & CEO of Emerald Jaaz. Emerald Jaaz is a purposeful lifestyle platform offering flexible communications, writing and ghostwriting services; mentoring for intentional individuals to live on their own terms; Jarmila’s novel about personal growth called “The Third Suitcase”; an all-European fashion label; a blog; experience-sharing; interviews and more. Both her personal and professional guiding philosophy is the same: "We choose to live our lives with intention, audacity and in full harmony with our own unique personal essence.” For enquiries and cooperation, get in touch with Jarmila.

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