Pebbles in my Boots: There's No Place Like Home

You know that feeling you get after having travelled a good amount of time and finally return home? "Ah...I'm home". You're comfortable again, happy, safe. It's a great feeling! I didn't return home yet to the states...but I did return to another home this week.

I made it to the temple.

London England Temple

This week I have been in England. London for a day, hanging around hyde park and feeding parakeets and eating ice cream. Sheffield for a couple days, hiking around the Peak District (which, by the way, was INCREDIBLE and SO pretty!). And then down to Newchapel where the London England Temple is.

During my hikes in the Peak District (I don't know how far I walked...but enough to give me some bloody heels!) and 3 mile walk from the train station to the temple, I had a good amount of time to think. Often my thoughts turned to, "What am I doing here? Am I shirking all responsibilities? Should I be here in Europe for so long? Should I go home and try harder to find a career I want to do? Is this really what I'm supposed to be doing with my life?" I was starting to feel a little overwhelmed, frustratrated, downtrodden and alone. I have had these questions ever since I booked my one-way flight to Europe, and since have had reassuring conversations with family and friends. But when you're alone for so long with no one to talk to except yourself, those thoughts tend to crowd out what you've already discussed with others.

However, as I walked into Newchapel, not knowing exactly where I was going, I saw the sign "London England Temple. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Visitors Center this way". Surprised, I just about broke down crying, suddenly feeling overwhelmed with that "Ahhh, I'm home!" feeling.

I was able to check in and get a room and go into the temple, still just feeling overwhelmed with gratitude that I felt at home. I felt safe and not alone. I felt comletely encompassed by the love of God. That familiar feeling I get when I go home to my parents to visit was there - knowing that I am surrounded by people who care and love me, even though, in this case, they didn't know me personally. I am grateful for my church. It is the same in every city, country, and continent that I visit! No matter if they speak a different language - that familiar feeling is there.

As I was there, my questions from earlier in the week and day went away as I felt that everything was fine with what I had decided to do - to travel Europe for a couple months. I felt that it's definitely okay to take advantage of whatever stage of life you're in. Jobs will still be there when I return. Do things that make you happy as long as you are continuing to choose the right and be diligent in reading your scirptures and praying. My questions had been answered and the overwhelming and frustrating feelings that went along with those questions were replaced with a calming peace and assurance.

So, here's to a renewed faith that it's all good! I can keep on keeping on here on my own and not feel bad that I'm not back in the states figuring out what job I should get next. Adventure's out there! And I'm going to take advantage of my life's situation and go find some more! :)

Thank you Danica for meeting up with me in London and Kadee for letting me stay with you! Thank you England for your delicious crumpets and little snacks, fascinating countryside one-car lanes, pastures of sheep and cows, enchanting countryside and castles, and magnificent views. On to Sweden!

Oh, and here's some pictures of my adventures in England. :)

Hyde Park, London