Journeying With Wisdom

Choosing Slow in a World of Fast

We live in a world obsessed with speed. The fastest route from point A to point B is always the preferred one. Forget about enjoying the scenery—we have appointments to keep. We go out for a cozy dinner and complain when the service is slow, missing the entire purpose of the outing: quality time together, away from the rat race.

Despite the tourism industry’s efforts to promote slow travel, we chase vacation packages that promise the most benefits in the shortest time. Time to truly explore a different culture or way of life becomes secondary to ticking off sightseeing and adventure. When shopping online, we’re quick to pay extra for faster delivery. Why wait, right?

Maybe you feel none of this applies to you. But ask yourself: When was the last time you sent a postcard? When did you last pause on vacation, pop into a souvenir shop, buy a postcard of the place you’re in, write a personal message, and go through the “trouble” of mailing it?

A Postcard from Zeeland

Just a day or two ago, as I sorted through my postbox, a postcard from Zeeland in the Netherlands fell out. And what a sweet surprise it was! My immediate reaction: “A postcard! Wow!!!” Turning it over, I found the most beautiful gesture—a personal note from friends who took time out while enjoying Rotterdam to send a postcard to little me, far away.

I was flabbergasted. Then came a wave of deep appreciation for how special these friends are in my life. Gratitude beyond words for being blessed with authenticity—friends who are original, who savor the little things. I mean, really, do you even keep your loved ones’ physical addresses in your contact list anymore?

The Joy of Little Things

Isn’t it the little things that bring the most joy? And so I ask myself: In this world of fastness, is it worth it? When our journey ends, what will stand out most from our time on Earth? The postcard from Zeeland, or a dinner with superbly fast service? The handwritten message, or a text saying the same thing?

My Choice

I choose the handwritten postcard—the one that traveled via snail mail and brought sparkle to a dull day. I choose to live with gratitude for friends who embrace slow travel in a fast-paced world.

And you? What’s your choice? When you reflect on your life, what will delight you in the end? The text message on your mobile phone, or the postcard in your mailbox?