Marilyn, a divorcee, never remarried and her daughter wanted to know why. "The men I know would bring too much heavy baggage to the marriage and I simply don't want to put up with it," she explained. Taking her mother's hand in hers, Marilyn’s daughter said sweetly, "I hate to break the news to you Mom, but you're not exactly a carry-on yourself."

We hurry to board the airplane first, even if our zone hasn’t been called. We’re anxious to snag the overhead space for our bulging roller bag, settle into (preferably) an aisle seat and unpack our laptops, iPhones and Kindles. We no longer travel light. Is this how we approach our relationships?

Let’s lighten up! Sure, we’ve all got baggage. Every day we face problems and complicated situations. But now, more than ever before, it makes good sense to get rid of all the stuff that’s dragging us down. Lose the drama, mama, and move forward in your relationships with a clear mind, clean body and a pure soul.

Rendering

I come to pray, but sit in silence.  
I am listening for You to talk to me.
You whisper:

Come, let go your heavy burdens.
Raise up your weary arms,
all the light and yearning they hold.
Into my hands, rest your hunger and hurt.
Believe all you seek is not beyond hope.
Trust it is not outside your being.

- Miranda Claudius