Don't mistake the inn for home

The "inns" of life can restore our vitality and supply bursts of happiness, but lingering too long can impede our progression toward a greater goal.

Life is a journey, and this implies that one cannot stay in a single moment or place forever. We are on a grand adventure–a winding and oscillating path that is dynamic, not static. We cannot forge virtue and self-actualize in lukewarm stagnation.

Our course in life will be plentifully dotted with “inns”–points of refuge, comfort, and indulgence. And these rest stops can refresh and invigorate us throughout our tiring trek. Conversely, we can sometimes settle too deeply into these “inns” and lose sight of “home.” Complacency can overtake us and cause us to delay or completely abandon the journey.

In a sense, we are all refugees searching for a promised land–and while the way stations along our quest can be invaluable in delivering happiness and restoring energy, they are only intended to offer temporary lodging as we travel toward a more permanent destination. We shouldn’t avoid the inns–the often profound pauses in our journey–or scorn those who visit them; rather, we should be mindful not to overstay our welcome.

Sometimes our fear of the uncertain road ahead sequesters us in the familiarity and ostensible security of the inn. But by taking up permanent residence in one place, you are closing yourself off to more exhilarating moments and beautiful experiences up the road. 

There is so much to see–there is so much more to learn about yourself. I’d posit that too many of us die knowing only a fraction of who we are. The “inn” can mimic “home”–it can even bear many of the noble qualities associated with home. But we must keep walking and not fall for that deceit. 

And I promise when we finally step across the welcome mat into the glorious foyer that wraps us in the warmth of ultimate belonging, we will wonder why we ever considered cutting our journey short and remaining at the inn.