Finding Harmony in the Dance of Power: A Lesson in Humility Learned While Traveling

In the rhythm of life's dance, sometimes we find ourselves stepping on toes without even realizing it. For many years, I waltzed through life thinking I was being helpful, unaware that my well-intentioned actions were causing discomfort and resentment. It took a journey to Mexico, a mosaic of experiences and a prayer for insight, to unveil the lesson that would reshape my perspective on power, control, and the delicate balance between them.

As a woman who prided herself on being proactive and organized, I often found myself labeled as bossy or controlling. Men would express feeling disrespected, a sentiment that puzzled me for the longest time. In my mind, I was simply offering my intelligence and talents to ensure the best outcomes for everyone involved. Little did I know, my genuine desire to help was being perceived differently.

The turning point came during a meticulously planned trip to San Miguel Allende, where the stark differences in behavior between the men and women in our group became glaringly apparent. The men effortlessly found their spaces, embracing the freedom to explore, relax, and immerse themselves in the experience. Meanwhile, the women tended to gather, creating an unintentional hierarchy with a leader emerging to set the group's pace.

This dynamic became even more pronounced when one woman, with the best intentions, started planning additional trips within the trip. While she saw it as disseminating information and helping, I felt a pang of anger and disrespect. It seemed as though my efforts were being overshadowed, and someone was taking ownership of what I had worked on for three months.

But the defining moment arrived during our departure. Faced with a logistical challenge, the van looked to small, the women in the group began yelling orders, attempting to control a situation that wasn't theirs to manage. It was then that I realized the impact of unsolicited advice and the importance of knowing our place. I spoke up, asking for quiet and allowing people to find their seats without unnecessary interference.

As the van rolled towards the airport, the contrast between the men's calm and the women's hyper-vigilance became strikingly evident. The women, always on edge, offering solutions and ideas, while the men found their seats and let the journey unfold.

The lesson was clear – offering unsolicited advice can feel like disrespect. It's crucial to recognize our place, understanding that our intentions might not always align with how they are perceived. Assigning ourselves to our own happiness and respecting the leadership of others fosters harmony. Our way is for us, and everyone is on their unique journey.

This newfound wisdom led me to reflect on my past behavior in relationships, friendships, and various circles. Today, I extend a letter of apology to those I may have overpowered with my opinions – my ex-husband, children, friends, and anyone who felt the weight of my unwarranted guidance. Today, I stand humbled and grateful for the lesson bestowed upon me by a journey to Mexico and the divine insight gained through prayer. Life's dance is intricate, and in learning to step lightly, we find the true rhythm of self-help and harmony.



Stephanie Ward is the intrepid explorer and storyteller known as Curious Travel. With a heart full of wanderlust and a spirit eager for self-discovery, Stephanie embarks on a journey across the globe, seeking not only the wonders of the world but also the profound lessons that travel imparts. Follow me on this journey.

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