“That step, the heroic first step of the journey, is out of, or over the edge of your boundaries, and it often must be taken before you know that you will be supported.” Joseph Campbell
Did I really want to move to Paris? But this was one of the biggest risks I would take. I had planning it for months, quit my job of 8 ½ years, got rid of my car, put everything in storage, and now was ready to make the Great Resignation during the pandemic to start my new life. This was all because I was tuning into listening to my intuition and not just following out the logical path.
But there were numerous tests along the way. I would have to get a negative covid test 24 hours before, my dogs needed their health certificates, I would navigate sleeping on the floor for five days as the movers came, and numerous other minor details. But the massive test came several days before. On Thursday December 16th, France made a declaration that the only people from the UK that could come to France were those with a “compelling reason,” this meant residents, French citizens, or those travelling for a funeral. I was going to be a new resident, would that count?
We had to think quickly. My mother had flown from the US to assist with the move. Decisions were made for her to fly back in two days to Philadelphia to not chance it of being rejected into the country. The taxi driving me and my dogs from the United Kingdom to France cancelled on me without giving any alternatives. I chose instead of freaking out to think of other solutions, I could freak out later. I called the taxi company pleading to ride with another family days earlier. I then phoned my moving company to see if my dogs and me could ride with the boxes to France. Both said no, but I was eventually able to find a company that assisted with ease.
For one week, I lived in shock, mania, and extreme caffenation. I knew I could do this. I knew I could empty out a four floor house and squeeze into less than 300 square foot apartment. I made too many sacrifices to quit now. And I pushed through.
I took the risk and it paid off.
In the midst of this, everyone is asking the following questions:
What do you want to do first thing when you get there?
Answer: sleep and rest (which works because I have to quarantine for 48 hours)
Do you speak French?
Answer: No, but I will learn.
Do you know anyone?
Answer: Acquaintances, but I will meet people in my French classes.
How does it feel to be here?
Answer: relief, joy, and gratitude.
And so it is…
Whatever dream that is pulling at your heart, know it’s possible. Adversities will arise, but so will angels to help you out.
“The big question is whether you are going to be able to say a hearty yes to your adventure.” Joseph Campbell
It Only Takes A Smile 