The Set-Back Is a Set-Up

We can’t imagine how what we’re doing now will benefit us later

Recording the audiobook for my recent book, When the Sky Opens and the Answers Shimmer

Sometimes what seems like a set-back
Is really a set-up
I studied journalism in college
But had no intention of being a writer
I chose journalism because I thought I wanted to get into broadcasting
It wasn’t for me
Yet my school, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Made it nearly impossible to change majors (a blessing in hindsight)
Instead of broadcasting I opted for the news-writing track
The journalism oddball
Out of place
I didn’t belong
Each interview filled me with dread; the teachers intimidated me
I powered through and got my degree
But left college without direction
I began to journal
What the hell do I do with my life?

After a few trips to foreign countries
I realized traveling excites me like nothing else
My desire for understanding interwove
With my longing to explore
I’d travel, take photos, and write stories of my journeys
This was something I could get behind
I…