Most people don’t know how to respond when you tell them you’re going to spend 6 months hiking the Appalachian Trail. However, this is usually their first response.
Is everything all right?
This is a very normal response, especially if you’ve known me for a long time.
I have spent my entire life caring for and serving others. Growing up, my mother was sick. As an elder, it was my responsibility to take care of my siblings. And I must say they turned out pretty spectacular!
I married my husband when I was 19 and we had three wonderful children together. They are all grown up now and I am very proud of all of them.
Side note: Moms, I see you. Hang in there.
I became an administrative assistant to four different (male) bosses, all with different opinions. Yeah, that was fun, until it wasn’t.
When a job opened up at my church, I began working there, serving others, and have been there for the past 16 years. Name the job, I’ve done it. (They like to say I wear many hats.)
Eight years ago my grandmother fell at home. We moved her to our house and I started taking care of her. Health professionals and CNAs. I see you and thank you.
And after COVID, I started my profession as a chaplain in the market. Life is difficult, sometimes we just need to know that we are not alone. We all need someone to process difficult things with. Oh really!
Don’t get me wrong, I love caring and serving people. But you know what? I’m willing to do something for myself. Or as I have told many…
I’m being selfish.
I said it. This word gets a very negative reaction, but so often we don’t take care of ourselves. Because we are so busy caring for others, we are suffering. I know I’m not alone.
I know there are many people who are tired. Search. Or maybe, like me, you need an answered prayer. I just want you to know that you are not alone.
I had to wait 12 years for this dream to come true. This prayer has become a possibility mainly because it took me a long time to realize that it is okay to make myself a priority. I’m worth it and so are you!
So yes, everything is fine. Actually, it’s all pretty incredible.
Here’s to the AT Class of 2026! Let’s do this!
**This photo was on my 49th birthday in Yellowstone. Here’s to summiting Mama K when she turns 50!
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