Marked

Normally, I would not be so apt to broadcast a self-taken picture of my face on the internet. I promise there's purpose to this picture.

This morning, I woke up with a new freckle. Those of you who know me, know that I have always had a mole under my left eye. Today, though, it was joined by a new dark freckle located on the most dominant part of my already dominant left cheek bone. The picture's purpose, thus, is to introduce my new freckle.

Since I've had a day filled almost entirely with pondering (an eventual 20 hours of traveling is a catalyst for thought), I've attempted to interpret the message my new freckle, gracing me on the day of my departure to Haiti, may be sharing.

I've concluded this: I can be marked, whenever and by whatever. The most dominant (physically) or secure (innerly) part of me can be marked. These marks do not taint me, but instead enhance me. These markings are what create me, they individualize me. My freckle is a physical mark, probably brought on my sun exposure and my irresponsibility relating to sunscreen application. Regardless, I still like it. I still think it enhances a feature I didn't think could be enhanced. Other marks, the ones that ink my inner self are brought on by adventure. The connections with people that change my mindsets or broaden my perspective, the markings that inspire me to learn the stories of others and the markings that fuel my moving spirit.

I am happy to be marked, not simply by freckles, but by people and their pens on my story. I am two flights into my trip, a taxi ride from one DC airport to the other, and about to embark on a tile floor sleepover next in close proximity to a man with really smelly feet (I need the outlets in this locale). When I awake in a few short hours, I'll fly to NYC and then to Haiti. In Haiti, I will eagerly pursue pens of people who will mark me, continue my story.

My newest freckle is my newest reminder to embrace change. Beautiful change.