Bucket List

I’ve never really had a bucket list.  My husband, John, had one, which I discovered after his death.  We had covered it pretty well.  With the anniversary next month of five years since his passing, and the recent death of my brother, I’ve been doing some pondering.  At the age of 77, I do not feel old.  But lately I’ve become aware that in earth years, I am.  

So, what would I put on a bucket list?  

I would like to take a road trip that includes Crazy Horse, Mt. Rushmore and Devil’s Tower.  John visited them on a motorcycle.  We had discussed returning there with me…in a car.  Didn’t happen.  And since I would be in the area (relatively), I would like to swing by Yellowstone.  My brother mentioned on more than one occasion his love for Crater Lake.  As recently as November, he talked of it again.  That would go on my list. I have some of his ashes to scatter there.  

Traveling to Israel had been a desire of mine for years.  I just felt drawn to that area.  Five months after John’s passing, I visited for the first time.  Two years later I returned.  In a conversation the other day with a daughter, I mentioned that the big 80 would be coming up for me in a little over two years.  

“How about I go to Israel for my 80^th?  

And now that thought is in my head.  I’ve gone with two different tour groups, but would love to see some non-tourist sites.  There are so many variables between now and then.  Right now, Israel is on lockdown.  That hurts my heart.  There is always the issue of finances.  And for “old” people; health.  

I have a feeling the longing to go to Israel will percolate for a while.  Like maybe two and one-half years.  

But there is more to a “bucket list” than just travels.  My physical health goes on there.  I would like to live out my days in relatively good health.  I do what I can to take care of me, but I know the results are beyond my control.  My mental health is another area to ponder.  Again, I do what I can to keep my mind in shape.  People  already tell me I’m crazy, so how will they know?  

But most important is my spiritual health.  My list includes a deep longing to know more about Christ every day.  As time passes, I’m amazed at the depth of His love and peace available to me. As we currently experience a worldwide pandemic, my soul is at rest.  But I will never be able to place a checkmark by that one.  

I will always be a work in progress.  

“Finally, brothers, rejoice.  Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.”  2 Corinthians 13:11 (ESV)

 

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