A Plane Ticket and a Leap of Faith: What I Learned Traveling Solo to Hawaii at 73
There’s something about the beginning of a new year that always stirs something in my heart. A sense of fresh beginnings, a little courage, and a whisper from God saying, “Let’s go.” Recently, I did something I never thought I’d do: I planned and booked an entire trip to Hawaii, by myself, at the age of 73, with the expert help, of course, of Travel Agent Diane Webb from Tour Plan International.
Now, I do live with some physical challenges, but I truly felt led to take this leap of faith. Although I’d never traveled alone like this before, I knew in my heart that it was time to step out in trust. What I found was not just sunshine, beaches, and rainbows (though I did see all of those!)… but empowerment, spiritual renewal, and the loving presence of God.
Though I traveled by myself, I was never truly alone.
My First Solo Adventure
I chose the Big Island and Kauai for my Hawaiian destinations, and every day felt like a gift. In Kauai, for instance, I saw God’s fingerprints everywhere: a vivid rainbow one morning, a rare spot rainbow the next day, and later in the week, a breathtaking double rainbow. These weren’t just coincidences to me, they were sweet reminders that the Lord was with me, smiling over my shoulder.
My journey proved to me that we are never too old to try something new, to go somewhere we’ve dreamed about, or to take a step that feels brave. Planning everything myself felt daunting at first, but once I arrived, a sense of peace settled in. I had time to rest, to reflect, and to simply enjoy where I was.
What the Hawaiian People Taught Me About Kindness
One of the most touching parts of my trip was experiencing the warmth and generosity of the Hawaiian and Polynesian people. Their culture emphasizes kindness, hospitality, and respect. There’s a deep understanding among their people that how we treat one another matters. Those who sow goodness will reap goodness, just as those who plant discord or unkindness will inevitably see that grow as well.
It reminded me so much of the Golden Rule and the Biblical teachings of sowing and reaping. It’s one thing to read it in Scripture, but it’s something else to see it lived out so openly.
It reminded me of why I wrote my book, Are You Stuck in the Dance of Conflict?. So many of us are caught in cycles of drama, division, and pain. But we don’t have to stay stuck in toxic patterns. We can step out with grace, choose kindness, and find healing through God’s truth.
Sharing Stories and Faith With Strangers
One of the most unexpected blessings of my trip was the conversations I had with people I’d never met before. Maybe it was the slower pace, or maybe it was just the openness of the people around me, but I found myself talking with fellow travelers, locals, and restaurant servers about life, faith, and even my testimony.
I didn’t go to Hawaii expecting to share my story, but of course, I was willing. In that willingness, God opened the door for connection. These simple chats reminded me how important it is to always be ready and have our testimony close to our hearts.
That’s why I’m so proud of the collaborative book I compiled, Sharing Our Journey of Coming to Jesus. It features the stories of twelve believers (including my own), each telling how they encountered Christ. Every story is different, but every one is powerful. It’s one of those inspirational books for women (and men) who need to know that God still reaches for us, no matter where we are.
Encouraging Women to Step Out in Faith
If there’s something on your heart or your bucket list, don’t wait. If God is calling you to do something, don’t let fear or age or uncertainty hold you back. I didn’t know how this trip would go. I could’ve made excuses. Instead, I prayed, planned, and took one step at a time. I’m so glad I did.
Maybe you’ve been waiting for someone to go with you, or maybe you’ve felt like your time has passed. I want to gently tell you that it hasn’t. Your story is still being written, and God can do amazing things when we trust Him.
You don’t need to have all the answers. You don’t need a perfect plan. You just need a willing heart.
It doesn’t matter if you go alone, He goes with you.
What This Trip Showed Me About Healing and Wholeness
This wasn’t just a vacation. It was healing. I’ve survived trauma. I’ve walked through the pain of abuse. I’ve lived through seasons that nearly broke me. My past is filled with chapters I wouldn’t have chosen, but God has used each one.
As a domestic violence survivor, I’ve written my story in books like Joy in the Valley and A New Song Rises Up because I want others to know they’re not alone.
Healing happens in layers. Sometimes it happens in quiet hotel rooms, sometimes it happens in conversations with others, and other times it happens by taking long, relaxing walks in paradise.
Don’t underestimate what God can do with a willing heart. Whether you’re 33 or 73, there is always purpose in your steps. He is still writing your story, so be open to what He may do next.
If you need encouragement, healing, or just a reminder that you’re not alone, I invite you to explore the books I’ve shared and to find Christian authors, domestic violence survivor stories, and books about hope and faith that speak to the heart.
Your next chapter may begin with one small “yes”. And don’t worry, God will meet you there.
