Have you ever asked yourself “why is this happening to me?” Or maybe you speak Friends and instead scream “why do bad things happen to good people?!” a la Ross’ shampoo incident.
Either way, I’m sure you’ve asked the question.
I’m quick to play the victim in any situation. I dwell on the bad while dismissing any good that may squeak into the picture. Throughout this past year I’ve been told (multiple times) that everything happens for a reason. Deep down I truly believe that…I think I’ve written about it before. However, in the midst of a low point, that phrase annoys the crap out of me.
I’ve spent so much time working, waiting and praying for the next “thing” to happen that I’ve become blind to the present. More than that, when something does happen that’s not on my radar, I’m quick to dismiss it. IT’S JUST NOT PART OF THE PLAN, or so I tell myself.
A crazy beautiful sunset from earlier this week!
Recently, an incredible opportunity fell into my lap that is completely unrelated to the job search. It came at a very defeating moment (rejection) yet I was hesitant to accept it because of my current situation. Guilt was the main emotion, but confusion and uncertainty also came into play. How do I know what I’m supposed to do? Is this part of my “everything happens for a reason?” Can I Google this?
I may be confused about EVERYTHING, but I do have faith in God’s plan for me. And while I can’t say for certain that God’s “bigger plan” involves me going on a last-minute trip to Italy (tomorrow), I also can’t deny the incredible opportunity. Yes, you read that right. I’m going to Italy for one week!
Long story short, last month I was in the final stage of interviews for a big time “dream job” when my cousin invited me on a family trip to Italy. If I had gotten the job, I wouldn’t have been able to go on the trip due to the intended start date. I got the rejection call two weeks ago and booked flights soon after. Some consolation prize…
Currently reading and loving
My health/job/foot problems will still be here when I return next week, but to ignore the fortunate circumstance would be crazy. As someone who has ALWAYS been a Point A to Point B person, I’m learning that the journey is equally, if not more important than the outcome. *Repeats previous line to self because it’s so important* I believe Point B will continue to evolve and grow as I continue to evolve and grow. Instead of viewing the middle as the roadblock, I want to start viewing it as life. A life that is happening for me, not to me. I may not like what happens all the time, but I’m trying to see things in a new light.
With that, I say arrivederci! This will be my second time in Italy but first time in Tuscany (aside from a cruise stop in Florence). I hope to get up a post or two while I’m there, but follow along on Instagram. Full recap, details, etc. to come!
*Linking up to Thinking Out Loud*
Oh my gosh Emily! That is so exciting! Great way to look at the bigger picture :) Have SO much fun and I can’t wait to hear all about it!
Thank you so much, Brie! I had such a great time! Ready to be off this plane (6 hours left) but can’t wait to share some photos next week :)
I need to ready that book, first off. ANd secondly-ITALLYYYYYY
I like the idea that the universe has got your back. I usually think that things don’t happen for a reason, but that they happen, and they get you to where you are, so you can’t have anxiety about that, you just have to keep moving. For whatever reason, thinking that it is out of my hands gives me great comfort to just keep moving forward.
Susie @ SuzLyfe recently posted…Reach Out Before You Break (Mental Illness Awareness)
That mindset gives me comfort too, which is odd because I like to be in control. Somethings (like life!) can’t be controlled.
It was an amazing week! <3
O my goodness! Have fun!! This will be such a great adventure and I bet exactly what you need!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…Freedom Feature: Nicole & Rob “88 Acres”
It was a fantastic trip and much needed change of scenery! Thank you so much <3
Aww have fun! I’m so glad you went for it. Also, that beginning phrase makes me think of Ross when he goes for a spray tan! hahahah
Heather @Lunging Through Life recently posted…Happy Birthday, Dad!
Ah such a classic episode. Thanks, Heather!
P.S. I just saw on FB it’s Annabelle’s first birthday! Sending her (and you guys) all the wishes for a great year :)
Have an awesome trip! And that sunset picture…incredible. I guess you could always read interview tips or go over your resume on the plane? Sounds like SO MUCH FUN (sarcasm). Safe travels!
Gretchen recently posted…What’s New With You #9
Thanks, Gretchen! Haha I laughed at that suggestion ;) I can’t even search for jobs online because the webpages keep translating into different languages.
Have a fantastic time in Italy! Travel can be such a great mental break too – and come back home refreshed! I went through a similar sort of feeling a few years ago. I graduated university and lived at home for 2 years working. I struggled so hard trying to figure out what to do next – what career to pursue, if I wanted to go to grad school, what to study. I stressed myself out so badly trying to choose the perfect path and the perfect career. Finally my parents, kindly but firmly, were basically like just choose a plan and go do it! Haha. And so I did, and it while it has been incredibly random it has led to so many fantastic experiences, just being open to whatever comes up!
I really appreciate you sharing your experience, Danielle. I’ve definitely become more open to experiences over the past few months (this trip included!). It was the best mental break I could have asked for.
Ok, so I love ALL of this, because I have totally been that person where I’m not seeing the bigger picture, the bigger blessings of jumping into the unknown and trusting God’s perfect plan for my life. I know it won’t always be easy, but HIs plan is GOOD for His kids. And wow, that is a leap of faith and so exciting that you are going to Italy. ENJOY it so much! You will love it.
Emily recently posted…WIAW: Why Stress Kills My Appetite
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, Emily. Sometimes I find myself looking for signs of what I’m supposed to do when really, God doesn’t work that way. It seems like the best (and hardest) thing to do is trust that I will end up OK, regardless of the exact decision.
Oh my gosh! have so much! I just ordered that book and can’t wait for it to get here. LOVE anything by gabby Bernstein.
Megan recently posted…Five Things
I’ve followed Gabby on social media for a while but this is my first book of hers! She is incredible. Hope it arrived :)
If only you could stop off in London on the way!
The change of scenery will be a fantastic opportunity to relax, refresh and put that particular job out of your mind before tackling other things when you get back home. I’ve probably said it before but I know that the right role for you is out there and it is only a matter of time before things WILL fall into place.
Have an exciting week :)
xx
I flew over London a few hours ago and thought of you! That is DEFINITELY the next place I visit in Europe.
It was really an incredible week. It gave me a renewed appreciation for what I DO have going for me (things may not be perfect, but there is so much good).
Wow that’s awesome. I hope you have an amazing trip. Also, that sunset picture is incredible. It looks like one of those insane stock photos that you are 95% sure aren’t real.
Megan recently posted…The week in review
Right?! It was a “pinch me” moment.
I’m definitely a believer in when God closes one door, somewhere He opens a window. Have fun in Italy! I recommend Real Talk Radio with Nicole Antionette. It’s a fabulous podcast to listen to.
Ellie Pell recently posted…3 Ways To Restore Racing Confidence
I agree. Sometimes it’s not a window close-by, but it’s there. Thank you for that suggestion!
such a good outlook girl :) I hope you have an amazing time in Italy!! Can’t wait to see pics :)
Alyssa recently posted…What an Instagram photo can’t capture
Thanks, Lyss! I had an incredible trip but I’m happy to be making my way back home :)
Have fun in Italy! Eat some gelato for me please :)
I struggle to see the big picture, but I firmly believe that things happen for a reason – you just may have to deal with disappointment and THEN see the positive. Glad you’ve found this perspective.
Catherine @ A Cup of Catherine recently posted…My Struggle With Anxiety (+ National Depression Screening Day)
Thanks, Catherine! Not to say I hold this perspective 24/7, but it’s becoming easier with time :)
Sometimes, I find that stepping out of our current environment and situation can really help. Plus, with the beautiful sites and delicious food in Italy, that can’t hurt either!
Sarah @ BucketListTummy recently posted…Iron For Runners + Friday Favorites #8
This trip was just the “step back” I needed. I could have gone anywhere to disconnect, but being with family in Italy was pretty darn awesome. Have a great weekend!
I hope you have safe travels and the best trip–Tuscany is incredible! Two books I’ve read lately that I love are “Eating on the Wild Side” and “Death by Food Pyramid” if you’re still looking for suggestions. :)
Claire @ My Pink & Green Life recently posted…Fear, Love, & Hard Choices
Always looking for suggestions :) Turns out I only read one of three books I brought…and only read it on the plane over! Go figure. Hope you have a great weekend!
So happy for you! Sometimes a change of scenery is the best when you are stressed or anxious about something. And you can’t beat Italy! Have fun!
Sarah recently posted…What You Gain in Recovery (It’s NOT Just Weight!)
Thank you Sarah! I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity :)
I need that book. And that perspective. A change of scenery can be the best thing ever, honestly, and I know you’re going to have a great time. Have an amazing trip!
Ellen @ My Uncommon Everyday recently posted…Five Friday Favorites 10/07/16
I feel like I’ll reference this book for a long time! Very impactful words. Let’s catch up soon <3
So happy for you girl!!!! Have fun <3
Edye recently posted…31 Pumpkin Treats For Fall!
Thank you, Edye! I had an incredible trip.
Love the saying and totally understand how sometimes it can be frustrating to believe it!! You just have to move along and that better opportunity will come– aka going to Italy. Have a blast!
The eye-rolls come easily sometimes, but I know that saying holds meaning. Thank you so much, Amylou!
I hope you have such an incredible time in Italy. Everything does happen for a reason, even when we REALLY can’t understand it. But accepting that takes effort every day so it seems like you’re on the right path. PS loving the Friends reference
Cayanne Marcus @healthyezsweet recently posted…You Don’t Have To Love School To Be Successful And Smart
That’s exactly it…it takes effort and reminders almost everyday but I know things will happen (soon!). Another Friends fan…love it!
I love that line “A life that is happening for me, not to me”. I hope you have the best time every in Italy!! Also Friends is the best show ever and will never get old :)
Kerri McGrail recently posted…WIAW: Running, Fall Foods & Studying Drugs
Thank you so much, Kerri! So glad you get my Friends references :)