(This post is being republished because it was deleted or lost, maybe on Gilligan’s Island. If you receive this twice, my apologies, and if you have never seen this, enjoy!)

Many great questions have been contemplated throughout the ages: What is the meaning of life? How can we have world peace? What is the purpose of our work? Can world hunger be eradicated? I have a question: Why did Mrs. Howell have all those changes of clothes if she was only going on a “three hour tour”? This past week was the 50th anniversary of television’s “Gilligan’s Island.” The conundrum of Lovey Howell’s attire came to mind. I might have found an answer.

This past weekend I went to Blowing Rock, North Carolina, for a weekend with some girl friends from my college days. This same group of friends has met together for years to celebrate life and friendship. We met in our sorority house at the University of Florida 40+ years ago, which is barely shy of Gilligan’s anniversary!

My plans were to leave for North Carolina, on Friday, and return on Sunday, to Virginia. Packing for this trip, I was reminded that when I fly to a destination I only take a carry on. Some trips have taken over a month yet I managed with only a carry on. Driving in a car should make things easier. September, however, can be an “iffy” time in the mountains. You do not know whether it will be hot or cold, summer or fall. Of course, we were planning to go out to dinner a couple of nights. Ah, would it be casual or resort casual? I knew we would have lots of time lounging around–comfort clothes. There might be a hike–I’ll need my old tennis shoes. You can see where I am going as the options for clothes multiplied. Laboring on what might be best to pack I just threw everything I was considering into bags- five tote bags! I was going for two nights and I looked as if I were moving in for the season. Of course I only wore a a fraction of the items from my five bags, but I was prepared. Also, I had a new appreciation for Mrs. Howell.

Driving down the interstate I began thinking of other areas in which I overpack. I can put too much on my schedule and pack my “to do” list. I crowd my mind and fill my heart with emotions, information and considerations. It is wasting needed space.

Sometimes I need to unpack my bags and leave them in a place where God can dress me with what I really need. This weekend I met with lifelong friends who helped me unpack some of my bags that made my load lighter. Everyone shared joys and hurts knowing there was no other agenda than to love unconditionally and cheer one another along the way.

I am ready to unpack my bags because I know the burden of hauling them around from place to place. God is interested in the baggage business. My burdens can be put in a place where God can work so I am free to travel with a lighter load. I do not have to be stranded on this island of concern dragging around my stuff–and everyone else’s!

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV).