This year, the month of October was a little different. About the beginning of the month, Mary's mother who is now ninety-three years old decided that it is time for her to move from independent living at Brethren Village to assisted living. We were delighted that she made this decision on her own. However, this meant that a lot of work had to be done to get her moved before we left for Florida. Fortunately a room was available for her, and the move could be made.

So, we decided that the first thing we need to do is pack our own stuff to take to Florida. What usually takes several weeks we did in one day. Then we had to go over and help Mother sort out her stuff. She would only be able to take some of her things with her to her new room. The family was very helpful. They came and carted off all the stuff she couldn't along. We didn't even have to take anything to the auction house. It was also helpful to Mother to know that most of her stuff would stay in the family. We made the deadline and got everything packed and ready for her big move.

This still gave us several days to finish our own packing for the trip south. The whole thing got me to thinking about the baggage we carry through life. This was the second downsizing for Mother. Mary and I went through a major downsizing when we moved into our condo. Mother still has too much stuff, and so do we. Eventually we will have no need of any of it, and when we finally leave this vale of tears, it will all be left behind. Owning stuff is really very temporary. Why do we hang on to it with such tenacity?

But what about the personal baggage that we carry with us? There are those little hurts that we hold so dear. We hold grudges that should have been forgiven long ago. Then there is the sense of failure because of the many mistakes we have made. Good grief! We did the best we could. Why should we continue to regret those mistakes? But most of all, there is the pain that has come into our lives from time to time over the loss of opportunity, jobs, friends, and loved ones. We don't deal with loss very well.

Our journey through life would be a lot easier if we could find a way to let some of that baggage behind. The problem lies in finding a way to do this. When it comes to taking things along to Florida for the winter, I ask myself the question, "Did I use it last year?" If the answer is "No," Then I leave it behind. When we downsized into the condo, I asked a similar question, "Have I used this item recently?" If not, it was left behind. Perhaps we could deal with our personal baggage in the same way. We might make a list of the things that weigh us down, and ask the question, "Has my life benefited by dwelling on this?" If not, then we should leave it behind.

I think it was St. Paul in one of his letters, who said something like this. "Forget those things which are behind, and press on towards the mark, etc." Without all that baggage, our steps would be lighter and our hearts would be gayer. We might even be able to do a little dance as we continue to run the race. At the very least, sing or whistle a little tune today. Music helps to free the soul.