Monday, June 9, 2014

Visiting the Past

So last week I was visiting places of my past.  It was my 25th Reunion from Georgetown University. It was wonderful to be back on campus, sharing my love of Georgetown with my family. It was also great to connect with friends, listen to some great talks and enjoy being back on campus.  I found myself thinking a lot about who I was at Georgetown, what opportunities I took advantage of and which ones I didn't.  I had to really fight the impulse to be filled with regret with all I didn't do.  There is an element of the bittersweet - on the one hand it was great to be back and on the other I realize all that I didn't do, all that I did not explore while I was there.

Photos by Mollie Sequeira, design by me using Canva!

The second place I went was to worship at the Washington National Cathedral.  I worked for the worship department at the National Cathedral in the early 90's. It was the second full time job I held after graduating from Georgetown.  It was an amazing place to work, that I don't believe I fully appreciated until later.  I had the opportunity to meet Jimmy and Roslyn Carter, participate in the ordination and consecration of Jane Dixon, the 2nd woman bishop in the Episcopal Church and hear the Dalai Lama.  No regret here.  It was truly an encounter with the past when the Rev. Frank Wade was the celebrant and I worked for him at St. Alban's Episcopal Church while I was attending Wesley Theological Seminary.

Both Georgetown and the National Cathedral have changed tremendously since I walked their grounds.  Of course I have changed too.  In some ways it is true that you cannot go back, you cannot go home again and on the other hand, it is good to go back, to see how things have changed and it stirred within me things I have let go of over the years.  Am I being called to re-visit these things - is there a way I need to integrate them within my life now?

I struggle with this notion of living with no regrets for in some cases the regret does not come until later.  It is true as Maya Angelou says "when I know better, I do better."  For example I had always hoped to travel abroad but since I transferred into Georgetown I did not want to be away from campus during any part of my three years.  Later, much later, it dawned on me that I could have done a summer abroad.  Again, a regret, and one to let go of since I didn't know to do that at the time.  Now I think about what it might mean to live and work abroad so perhaps I can still turn that longed for dream into a reality.  I am not sure any more if regret should always be avoided, certainly not something to get stuck in, yet it can serve as a catalyst for new dreams.  Hey I didn't do that, I wish I had, is there some new way I can imagine it now.

The trip to Georgetown was also an affirmation of so much that I know be essential to who I am. This picture taken in front of this sign captures this well.  I took my very first theology class at Georgetown. Thank you Monika Hellwig and all my other teachers at Georgetown who seeded my life long love of theology. Thank you also for giving me a place to doubt, to question my faith, to wrestle with it.  Truly I would not be who I am now without the guidance and teaching I received at Georgetown.  I am forever grateful and forever proud to be a Hoya!

So visiting the places of my past has been an opportunity to reflect with both gratitude and to let the regret come. Because from those seeds of longing come new dreams. I am not letting go of my dream of travel, living and working abroad.  I don't know what shape it will take yet, but I am feeding this dream.  One day I will post here that my further posts will come from abroad!

What places of your past have you visited?  Do you have "regrets" that could become new dreams?

31 comments:

  1. I think this is an informative post and it is very useful and knowledgeable. therefore, I would like to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this article.Honeymoon Tour Packages to Neelum Valley

    ReplyDelete
  2. Another important thing is your company. Is this a solo vacation, an adventure with your friends, or a slow and relaxed journey with your family? Either way, your company will affect your trip a lot, so it should be carefully planned so everyone has a good time.Tanzania Safari Tours


    ReplyDelete
  3. This program is state approved. Remember certification only comes after the student successfully passes the state exam.mykonos rent a car

    ReplyDelete
  4. The road trip for great things always, I am getting the useful crashed programs with us, the beach shops and following the great events. Better features and road trip concepts always on finding skills.turks and caicos all inclusive adults only

    ReplyDelete
  5. The road trip for great things always, I am getting the useful crashed programs with us, the beach shops and following the great events. Better features and road trip concepts always on finding skills.boutique hotel in Cairo

    ReplyDelete
  6. As business travel costs nose upward, organizations are understanding that better expense the board methods can have an effect. Lulus nearby

    ReplyDelete
  7. That sounds interesting. You’ll have to share your blog link. Travel seems a bit like a fantasy at the moment. Would be nice. :-fly now pay later

    ReplyDelete
  8. The information that you discuss in the article is really helpful for me. Thanks for sharing an article like this. The information that you discuss in the article is really helpful for me.hawaii

    ReplyDelete
  9. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often .Car hire in Manchester

    ReplyDelete
  10. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your points and have come to the conclusion that you are right about many of them. You are great. A wide range of workshops, tours, and concerts round off the fortress experience is a good change. esta usa

    ReplyDelete
  11. I really liked reading your ideas, and I agree with a lot of them. You're awesome! The fortress experience gets even better with various workshops, tours, and concerts. It's a nice addition. Vespa food tour siem reap

    ReplyDelete
  12. I've enjoyed the freedom stepping back for a while as Write For Us + Travel.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Absolutely captivated by the vibrant colors and rich culture showcased in these travel photos of Mombasa, Kenya! 🌴📸 #Wanderlust #MombasaAdventures. Travel photos of Mombasa Kenya.

    ReplyDelete
  14. If you're looking for a taste of the islands right in your neighborhood, Tropic Bowls Cafe is the place to be. Tropic Bowls Cafe

    ReplyDelete
  15. If you're in the market for a customized Sprinter van, you've come to the right place! Finding a custom Sprinter for sale can be a game-changer for businesses and adventurers alike. custom sprinter for sale

    ReplyDelete
  16. These services offer a range of benefits, including expert guidance, research assistance, and a structured approach to thesis development. thesis writing service

    ReplyDelete
  17. Cabs Oxshott is a reliable and efficient taxi service in the Oxshott area. The drivers are professional and courteous, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey for passengers. Cabs Oxshott

    ReplyDelete
  18. Finding a reliable car exhaust repair shop is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's performance. Look for a service that offers skilled technicians and quality parts to ensure a lasting solution. car exhaust repair shop

    ReplyDelete
  19. Visited the vegan bakery in Alpharetta last weekend, and it exceeded my expectations! The cakes and pastries were not only visually appealing but also incredibly flavorful. vegan bakery alpharetta

    ReplyDelete
  20. Just stumbled upon this Caribbean grocery in Atlanta and it's a game-changer! From exotic spices to rare Caribbean snacks, they've got it all. Friendly staff too, ready to help you explore the flavors of the islands. caribbean grocery atlanta

    ReplyDelete
  21. Exploring Peachtree Industrial Blvd for dining options? From cozy cafes to trendy eateries, this bustling street is a food lover's paradise. Don't miss the chance to savor the delicious offerings from the array of restaurants here! peachtree industrial blvd restaurants

    ReplyDelete
  22. Love starting my day with a refreshing acai bowl! This place near me serves the best ones - packed with fresh fruits, crunchy granola, and a generous drizzle of honey. acai bowl places near me

    ReplyDelete
  23. Discover the ultimate in comfort and design with our sectional sofas in Atlanta. From contemporary to classic, our selection caters to diverse tastes. Elevate your living room with our stylish and functional sectional options. sectional sofas atlanta

    ReplyDelete
  24. Indulge in a romantic escapade at these private dining restaurants, where the ambience is as delightful as the cuisine. Perfect for anniversaries or just a spontaneous date night, these venues create an intimate atmosphere that is sure to kindle the flame of romance. romantic private dining restaurants

    ReplyDelete
  25. Absolutely delighted with the catering service! The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented. Definitely the best catering service in town! Best catering service

    ReplyDelete
  26. Atlanta's culinary scene is rich with diversity, and American cuisine takes center stage at these restaurants. From classic Southern comfort food to innovative twists on traditional dishes, these American cuisine restaurants in Atlanta offer a delicious journey through flavors that define the nation. american cuisine restaurants in atlanta

    ReplyDelete
  27. When it comes to finding top-quality chains, look no further! This website offers a curated selection of the best chains, ensuring both style and durability. A one-stop-shop for all your chain needs! best website for chains

    ReplyDelete
  28. Product photographer - the unsung hero behind stunning visuals! Their meticulous attention to detail and creative eye bring products to life, capturing the essence of each item in a single frame. product photographer

    ReplyDelete
  29. Craving the authentic flavors of Mexico? Look no further! This Mexican food restaurant near me is a culinary gem, offering a mouthwatering array of tacos, enchiladas, and more. MEXICAN FOOD restaurant near me

    ReplyDelete
  30. Visited Wing Place Atlanta last night and was blown away by the quality of their wings. The atmosphere is lively, the staff is friendly, and the wings are simply delicious. wing place atlanta

    ReplyDelete