Ever since I started focusing on my personal growth, I noticed I am taking more challenges. I feel that when I take on more challenges, I grow in experience which I am able to share with others.
Two greatest challenges I have taken this far is flying during pregnancy and flying alone with an infant. I believe those two challenges have moulded me into thinking nothing is impossible.
Fear brings forth faith
Earlier this year, I flew to Seoul for a work conference and I was seven months pregnant. I knew many people questioned my decision and were worried for me. With the reassurance of my midwife, I decided to go ahead. And of course, at the time I had not visited Seoul so I really wanted to seize the opportunity.
I prayed for safety before I flew and that gave me some peace. During the flight, due to the difference in air pressure and some turbulence, baby was kicking real hard. To be honest, I was afraid deep down. I questioned my own decision and worried about baby's safety.
However, the other side of my mind was telling me, if there was no turbulence, I would not have gone through the fear and knew what to do, or who I entrust our lives to. I had a safe flight in the end but I was incredibly exhausted because sitting for eleven hours was not the most comfortable for a pregnant lady.
Silencing doubt with action
The second crazy thing I did was to fly with my now already born infant and take a ten hour flight from Auckland to Singapore. I had not planned to return home so soon if it weren't for my best friend's wedding. When I booked my flight, I believed strongly that I was going to be okay, I was a tough mum and I could handle baby by myself.
As days went by looking after the baby, I gradually doubted my decision. What if he makes things difficult for me on the plane? What if some passenger wants to steal my boy? How am I going to go to the bathroom with a baby? All these crazy thoughts were running wild in my mind.
Alas the day arrived and I boarded the plane with excitement. However, I quickly find myself counting down to the plane arriving in Singapore. Baby was excited and stimulated on the plane and did not nap much.
I carried him while having my meals because he did not want to sleep. He wanted to move around when I just wanted to sit down. I could not even finish a 1.5hour Aladdin movie on a ten hour flight because I was busy walking baby up and down the aisle, changing his diapers and everything I can to keep him entertained.
Thank goodness he was happy throughout the whole flight so I safely avoided all the judgmental eyes on a crying baby. I thanked God that we arrived safely, and quickly realized I got to fly back with him alone again in two months.
Up for a challenge
These two experiences were definitely challenging, and to a certain extent, crazy or risky. I personally do not recommend flying during third trimester nor alone with an infant because it really takes a big toll on your body.
However, if you are always up for a challenge like me, make sure you consult a medical professional before you fly or your spouse if you want to travel alone with a baby. But otherwise, hopefully you enjoy this light read.
Amy Ching enjoys fellowship with people and seeing their lives changed because of Jesus. Her passion is to influence others and speak into their lives. She loves spending time with family and friends and would love a good meal on top of the fellowship. She enjoys travelling and would love to travel all the time if she can. If you want to know more about her, check out her instagram account @chingamy, where she posts about life, her revelations, and hopes to inspire.