We took a vacation out west recently to the 5 National Parks in Utah and then to a ranch in Wyoming. In addition to startling a mother moose, learning a lot about geology, and seeing the Milky Way in all its splendor, I learned (was reminded of) three things:

1. Taking a break from screens opens up space for laughter. Our kids only used their devices for the plane rides, but for all our (many) drives together, every night back at the cabin, every afternoon of hanging out, we had each other, books, and movies only if we all agreed to watch it together. 

2. My husband’s favorite view in the world is the Tetons in Wyoming. (Second place is the New York City skyline.) Who knew?

3. I like hiking more than riding horses. I think it’s a control thing. But either way, being outside in nature with a little bit of fear and a lot of beauty every day speaks to the deep, shy parts of my soul.

I heard a very simple message over the course of those two weeks: Love is patient. Love is kind. Love keeps no record of wrongs. I learned that I am invited to receive that kind of love in the depths of my being.

I suspect I will need to learn this again and again for the rest of my life.

Learn more with Amy Julia:

• What 7 Nights in an RV Taught Me About a Cotton Candy Life
• Sabbatical Announcement and Learning to Rest
• How Beauty Brings Peace, How Peace Brings Beauty

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