Craving Connection

It’s amazing how quickly plans can change. One minute you’re on a four day hike (which was super challenging and epic), and the next you’re back in the reality of the world where an epidemic has hit and people are panicking. My plans to start a blog highlighting connections with the people I meet on the road has suddenly started to feel a little silly during times where we are being cautioned away from frequenting public places and being advised to practice social distancing. But perhaps it’s during times like this that the need for connection are even higher. Not connection in the sense that I want the virus to spread. Let’s be clear on that. I am grateful that governments are taking precautions and closing borders. That air travel is being restricted. That non essential services are shutting their doors to prevent people from getting sick. This is actually why I have chosen to stay in New Zealand, rather than scramble to get on a plane and travel back to Canada. It's been a tough decision, as there is a part of me that wants to be back with family, but I also recognize that most of the cases have been spread by international travel, and I wouldn't want to risk it.

So how do we make sure to stay connected? For those like me who are traveling in a van, it’s times like this that social media are increasingly important. I feel so grateful to have this laptop and cell phone that can instantly connect me with friends, family and strangers, and I intend to use them for these purposes over the next while. Interestingly enough, my plans aren't changing all that much. I was already taking a break from work and living in a self contained camper van, spending the majority of my time on solo adventures. My days will still be spent on my own, living in my van, reading, journaling and breathing fresh air in nature.

During these emotional times, I am going to focus on staying healthy physically, mentally and emotionally. Allowing myself to feel the ups and downs and everything in between. I am embracing the tears and urge to cry one minute, followed by laughter and gratitude the next. The deeper connections with friends and family, as we all go through this together, taking it one moment at a time. For those of you who may be feeling a bit isolated, please do not hesitate to reach out and chat. My wishes are for everyone to be happy and healthy. I hope that these times will allow us all some extra space to reconnect to the things that matter most. To pause and reflect on what we can learn from this experience to create a more positive future. To experience all of the highs and lows with open hearts, remaining connected with friends, family and our community.