Before my recent trip, I searched the internet to find safety tips for women traveling alone. My established practice on previous solo vacations was never carry a purse that pickpockets could pull from my hand. Instead, I kept my credit cards and cash in a money belt around my waist. Believing I was super savvy, I always wore cargo pants with zippered pockets for my passport, another pocket held my cell phone, and the lower pocket was perfect for my hotel key.
Then I read an online post from another traveler who asked, “The cargo pocket, then, on the outside of the leg. Good, right?”
The travel advisor’s answer surprised me. “Sorry, no. We’ve seen pickpockets who specialize in cargo pockets. Pickpockets use razor blades to cut away pockets on cargo pants.”
Yikes! All those cute little compartments on cargo pants were not pickpocket proof.
Money belts and cargo pants were not the only things I employed to keep things orderly and safe. Codependents like me often compartmentalized as a way to avoid the instability and constant feelings of dread.
We categorize because we need a foolproof way to insulate ourselves from the painful truth. We did not realize, however, that denial was the master organizer who specialized in deceit and had pigeonholed us into avoiding the truth.
Thankfully, we no longer have to remain ignorant. We can search the web and find safety tips as to the real dangers of addiction and co-addiction.
I did wear my cargo pants on my trip, but the pockets did not hold any important personal items. Because I searched ahead, I gained valuable insights.
And thanks to the insights from my 12-Step programs, I have learned that as long as I continue to take my own inventory I will not box myself in by denying the truth when I feel it.
I’ve commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9 CEV).
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