Step 2: Get rid of all your shit

Identifying, sorting through, and discarding my emotional shit was an essential prerequisite to getting to a point in life of trusting the Universe enough to get rid of the job, home, and material excess that gave me a sense of security. It has been a long journey, and I couldn't have done it without intense and honest 12-step work, loads of support and encouragement, and discovering a Spiritual Source that has reconnected me with faith in the Universe, joy, and my "soul self". A wise man once said, "All growth comes through pain."

As far as material shit goes, I left my marriage with almost nothing in August 2020, and I am absolutely shocked and dismayed by the amount of stuff I managed to accumulate in just 5 years. I would not have realized how much a part of the consumer culture I really am without this cleansing. Now that my property is sold, my total worldly possessions are either in that 5'x15' storage unit or in my car.

I house-sat twice and stayed with two different friends over the two weeks between when my home sold and my last official day of work. I'm finding it surprisingly easy to live out of a little pink carry-on suitcase and my travel backpack. I have my car, too - so I'm also not without my favorite pillow, some extra shoe options, a warmer jacket, and some dry goods for meals. I've spent the last several days playing house with Matt in Oregon, and it's been wonderful!

I flew out of Portland (gorgeous airport redesign!) this morning and landed in Phoenix about 30 minutes ago. I have a few hours to kill until my son's flight arrives. We will drive together this evening to SW Arizona to visit my parents. My son ships off for a new career as a Marine officer shortly after our visit. I'm so lucky and grateful to have this time with my son and parents before Matt and I leave on our big trip!