"I won't need this. Will I?" Better pack it, just in case.

I'm making preparations for our weekend trip, deciding what to pack, what to leave behind. As I was making my list I thought about how I mentally pack and unpack.

I'm worried about a friend who seems distant lately. (Better pack that.)

Budget issues at work are a major concern. (I won't need that until Monday morning. Leave it behind.)

I have friends directly affected by the evacuations happening in Houston. (Certainly want to keep that close by.)

I had hoped to lose another 10 lbs before this trip. (No need to worry with that now; unpack it.)

As I throw my favorite jeans and my must-have hair paste in my suitcase, I rifle through all the concerns and worries I carry with me. I lay a few aside. They will keep. But I hold a few close, knowing I will find time on the drive to say a prayer and think good thoughts for those I love.