Faith, Carry-Ons, and a Stuffed Giraffe
A Travel-Themed Reflection From Always Toward the Light
People sometimes ask what else I do besides writing reflections, wrangling my own spiritual life, and trying not to accidentally break my Lenten fast five minutes after waking up.
Well… I also help people plan trips. I’m the founder of Harbor Close Travel, part of the Liberty Travel Network. It’s one of my great joys—helping others discover places that nourish the soul, not just fill the itinerary.
Now, I’m not telling you this because I have your tickets to Aruba in hand (though let’s be honest… sunshine is tempting right about now). I’m sharing it because faith is something you absolutely need to pack when you go on vacation.
Let me explain…
One time, I watched a mom with twin toddlers attempt to board a plane while juggling a diaper bag, two juice boxes, a stuffed giraffe, and a child under each arm. As we made eye contact, she whispered, “Please pray for me.”
I nodded solemnly and said, “I already started when I saw the giraffe.”
That’s when I realized: vacation may be a break from work, but it’s not a break from grace.
Faith belongs in your suitcase right alongside sunscreen, chargers, and snacks.
Long lines? Perfect for a decade of the Rosary.
Delays? Unexpected moments for silence and surrender.
And if you’re headed to Disney? Let’s just say… you’re going to need a lot of prayer.
In my travel newsletter, I often share reflections like this—because wherever we go, whether to the Azores, the Amalfi Coast, or your cousin’s backyard BBQ, God is already there, waiting to meet us.
👁️🗨️ Today's Gospel: Seeing Things Clearly
In John 9:1–41, Jesus heals a man born blind. What starts as a stunning act of mercy turns into chaos—Pharisees grilling him, neighbors questioning him, and people demanding theological footnotes.
And yet, this man—the one who had never seen anything in his life—says the simplest, most powerful thing of all:
“One thing I do know is that I was blind and now I see.” (John 9:25)
That line hits home.
He didn’t have it all figured out. He didn’t have the “right words” or a doctrinal thesis.
He had experience. And courage. And new eyes.
This is Lent at its best—not achieving perfection, but slowly starting to see differently. To notice Jesus moving in the ordinary. To recognize our blind spots… and let Him gently restore our sight.
✨ Lent Encouragement (and a Gentle Eye Roll)
If you’ve tripped, stumbled, or faceplanted your way through Lent so far, you’re in good company.
If you gave up sweets and found yourself holding a brownie halfway through—welcome.
If your prayer life this week included yelling “LORD, HELP” in traffic—that still counts.
If your spiritual journal has one line that says “try again tomorrow”—yes. That’s holy too.
Jesus isn’t asking for Pinterest-perfect faith. He’s asking for a heart that keeps turning back. Even if it’s messy. Even if it’s tired. Especially then.
🙏 A Word to New Subscribers
To those of you who’ve recently joined us here at Always Toward the Light—welcome! You're officially part of a community of faithful, flawed, and funny people walking together toward something better. I see the notices that you’ve joined, and it makes me smile every time!
Thanks for being here. You’re a gift.
🛍️ A Quick (and Honest) Word About the Store
Okay, real talk. I don’t like pressure-driven sales tactics. If I were any worse at sales language, I’d start every promo with, “Feel free to ignore this entirely.” (Oy.)
BUT.
If I don’t tell you about the Always Toward the Light Store, how will you know it exists? It’s a true dilemma!
The store is simply an extension of the goodness we’re building here on Substack. It’s filled with reflections, guides, and digital resources designed to support your journey of faith. And it’s just the beginning—there is so much bubbling in the creative pipeline, including courses and other opportunities for personal growth and mastery. The store gives us a place to spill into—a space to offer more for hearts that want to go deeper.
Prices are intentionally low.
If cost is a concern, just reach out—we’ll discount or gift it. Truly.
The goal is not to sell stuff. The goal is to share light.
Take a peek if you're curious. We’d love to share more with you.
💬 Comments = Giant Smiles
I can’t say this enough: I love hearing from you!
Your thoughts, questions, insights, or even gentle eye rolls bring giant smiles to my face.
Got something on your mind this Lent?
Wrestling with a passage?
Want to see a reflection on a specific topic?
Drop it in the comments. Ask me anything. Challenge me if you must (I’ll pray first and then reply). Let’s keep this community honest and alive.
With hope, warmth, and maybe a stuffed giraffe in the carry-on,
John Henry
Always Toward the Light
P.S. If you enjoyed the little travel story at the top, you might like my travel newsletter too. It’s where I share faith-filled reflections from the road, destination inspiration, and reminders that God’s grace travels with you—whether you’re heading to Portugal or just packing snacks for the car ride.
You can subscribe at Harbor Close Travel if your heart ever feels ready for a little journey.