Welcome to Holland and Since I Caught My Breath

Many of you are familiar with the poem by Emily Perl Kingsley, "Welcome to Holland".  I wanted to share with you a poem I wrote as a continuation to that poem.  It is entitled, "Since I Caught My Breath."

Since in Holland I’ve caught my breath, accepted the shock and adjusted to something different than I'd planned. Years ago my plane took an in-flight detour, and landed in Holland. I remember those feelings; the fear, the anger - the pain and uncertainty. At first, I tried to get to Italy, but all planes were booked, and Holland is where I stayed. Today, I have learned much more through a journey of patience and time. I bought new guidebooks, learned a new language and labored hard, sometimes both night and day, but I found my way. I made connections with others who also had plans change and who understood. They taught me to open my eyes to the gifts of Holland. Now I am a veteran guide to wayward travelers coming to Holland. This journey has been challenging and I remember my tantrums; kicking, screaming and crying in frustration (sometimes I still do).However, Holland has been an unexpected gift. I have learned to look at things with a new awareness. My child and I, walking hand in hand, experienced together the magnificence of Holland tulips, windmills and Rembrandt’s. We love Holland and call it home. We have discovered that it doesn't matter where you land. It is what you make of your journey.