As Gloria and I walked off the airplane (15 hours after getting on it) all 5 of our senses were put on high alert. It is interesting how a new place can do that. Sensory overload can easily happen in new places but sometimes it happens in those places that are most familiar and maybe even nostalgic to us.
The smells of a foreign country are always just that, foreign. It is like a wave of smell is not just hitting your nostrils but every bit of you can feel the smell. Maybe this happens to you for more familiar smells. You know, like the one that hits you when you walk into your grandma’s house. That smell can go one of two ways; it is either a little bit musty or like homemade biscuits!
As you walk through the airport in a foreign land we often stick out as the foreigners that we are. We look different, wear different clothes, and have a different language. Think about it, we smell different, sound different, and look different. We are foreigners here.
One of the most helpful parts of travel like this is that it reminds us of what our son, Zeke, might feel in just a few days. He will be leaving the familiar sights, sounds, and smells only to encounter a complete sensory overload of his own. This transition for him will likely take some time to adjust but eventually, the smell of his mom’s fresh-baked cinnamon rolls will be normal. The sounds of his siblings playing in the yard will sound good. The sight of his family will be a sweet delight.
Until then, we will try and help him adjust with each new interesting encounter.
This reminds me that, as believers, we must remember this world is a foreign land to us. Do not allow yourself to become so accustomed to the sights and smells around you that you forget to look forward to the beauties of Heaven. May we be people who long for new sights, sounds, and smells as we enjoy the glories of eternity with Christ.
Chad Hunsberger
