"Not all those who wander are lost."
-J.R.R. Tolkien
Living
abroad was the best education I’ve ever received. It was my exposure to the world, the vulnerability of being alone which instructed wisdom and strength.
The flexibility of going from one place to another, without a plan or guidance, was liberating.
The flexibility of going from one place to another, without a plan or guidance, was liberating.
I
understand that roaming isn’t suitable for all people. It may not work for the
average person, but it fits for the earthly observer. The individual
who loves the work, work, work model, may deem those without a permanent
residence, as irresponsible or running away. Actually, it’s the opposite. It
administers liability while adhering for the individual to rely on the
self; which is something that the corporate realm is completely, incapable of
teaching. The very concept of running is noted, yes, but running towards something.
That something is only defined by the
runner, not the viewer.
For
those that don’t accept this alternative way of life, the unnecessary
disapproving comments should remain silent. The griping resentment is, in
truth, connected to a deep-rooted, miserable onset of issues that should be
discussed with a therapist. Not the one who chooses the road less traveled.
If
you’re a person who loves to float around and finds comfort in random
excursions, then the corporate daily motions will stifle your desires. The M-F offers
a pension, 401K, and stability for the future. True, the periodic professional sphere
lacks thrills, neglects passion, and doesn’t give enough time off; but the
money is good, the people treat you right and the benefits package is awesome.
This day-to-day schedule will work for you, should you decide to exchange the
wandering voyages, for 5 star hotels and the expensive hamster wheel. 
I’ve
reclaimed my American citizenship and transitioned to the land of comfort and
security, while giving the piping American dream, a Greek anecdote. I’ve become accustomed
to crossing the Adams Street Bridge over the Chicago River, which is a
challenge to do in the midst of an icy, cold, freezing winter. Whenever I
venture across that bolted, slippery steel, I’m reminded of a time when I was in Chang Mai,
Thailand, and I became scared to walk over a bamboo bridge, that was high above a waterfall. My good friend convinced me that bamboo was strong, so he jumped on it, assuring me that it was, indeed-y, tough. 
I
used to have great adventures and amazing events that I’ve experienced with
people I didn’t know. I once rented a motorcycle to drive through the streets
of Langkawi, Malaysia. During this feat, I got lost in traffic, and along with the unorganized street patterns, the congestion of cars, my heart rate increased with panic.
I ended up getting into an accident. Next thing I know, a 17 year-old girlie,
with a naked baby hanging off her left boob, and a basket perfectly balanced on
top of her head, came by and guided me back to my hostel. I bought her lunch and
we talked about all the lovely topics that only girlies discuss.
It’s
those accidental events that remain absent in my life. Unfortunately, they have
become replaced with the superficial, the ignorant, and the insane. Luckily, I
have the influence of friends, who are still abroad, to continue to inspire me with
their wonderful endeavors. Here’s a few:
- A girlfriend of mine just landed a job in Antarctica…I’m serious.
- Another continent-jumper-friend of mine, has been roaming around South America, documenting the difference in ass sizes, thus becoming well-acquainted with the curvier species. Needless to say, he has joyfully, extended his stay.
- A good buddy of mine has been flying between South Korea and Thailand for the past few years, and loving it.
- Two girlfriends have been teaching in Guatemala for the past few years, and thoroughly enjoying their lives.
I’ve
been reading a lot about expats never wanting to return home, and there’s
nothing wrong with that as their bold undertakings continue to stimulate and
inspire those who dream of the world beyond the white picket fence. There’s a
world to acknowledge, an earth to investigate, and these people I’ve mentioned
above, are whole-heartedly, running towards something great.
Keep running towards the object of affection, the place of your dreams. Even if it’s for a few weeks, a couple of months, or several years, go for it.
If
anyone tries to stop you, smile and politely, give them the middle finger, as you board the plane to your next stop.
