WHY TRAVEL?

WHY TRAVEL?

With our two-week vacation in Greece slowly dwindling away, I've been pondering why I enjoy traveling and reflecting on the peculiar things I've learned over the years.

I didn't grow up in a family of jetsetters. My childhood idea of travel meant going to a Twins game in Minneapolis during the summer - a thrilling adventure in its own right! Those baseball outings fueled my passion for the sport and my quest to explore new horizons.

Fast forward a few decades, and here I am, still married to the same person (surprising, I know), and we're continuously plotting new escapades across the globe. I've developed an appreciation for the fabulous life many Americans enjoy compared to others worldwide. I've also figured out that money and possessions aren't the keys to happiness. We've met people with next to nothing compared to their American counterparts who are remarkably cheerful and content. Maybe it's because life is simpler for them. Could it be that they're happier because they're not obsessed with collecting stuff?

Now, how have these worldwide wanderings molded me into a different person, you ask? I genuinely believe that once you stretch that metaphorical rubber band, you're never quite the same. I know I've changed because of my travels.

First and foremost, I always return with a heightened sense of humanity. I'm exposed to how people of different colors, religions, and cultures are essentially just like me. We share more in common than you'd think. They want to enjoy their family and friends, provide for their children, and find success and happiness in their own way. Sound familiar? We may speak different languages, but somehow, we manage to communicate. A smile and a bit of effort bridge many gaps of understanding. Plus, it's incredibly humbling to be "the other" and not quite fit in. This has given me a newfound empathy for those in our country who are part of the minority. When you find yourself in a sea of Peruvians, Chinese, or Koreans as one of the few Americans, you gain a better appreciation of what it's like to stand out.

Secondly, I've become more curious. Observing other cultures has inspired me to question my own beliefs. Why do I believe what I do? Why do I assume that my way is the right or only way? I think being able to challenge your own beliefs is how we all grow and improve. If I assume that my way is the best way, why would I ever seek out a better way? I don't think I would. Many people in our country are stuck in their beliefs. They won't even entertain the possibility of different perspectives. The more you know, the more it should encourage you to reconsider previous thoughts. Admitting that you may have been mistaken about something can be challenging. I know it is for this stubborn firstborn! However, I believe wise individuals are willing to embrace new information and arrive at different solutions to problems. We live in a world that requires fresh approaches to problem-solving. Addressing current issues with old ways of thinking could be our downfall. Some of us over 50 may yearn for simpler times, and while that's a nice sentiment, it's not realistic. It's better to accept that the world is different and figure out how to adapt than to pine for the past.

Now, let's not get too serious here. Let's lighten the mood and touch on one more reason I love to travel. Whether it's standing on the Great Wall of China, hiking to Machu Picchu, visiting the Acropolis in Greece, or simply dipping your toes in the ocean, these experiences can be life-altering. It's challenging to put into words, but it makes you feel small in the grand scheme of things. It helps you realize that you are not the center of the universe and that your problems, for the most part, are inconsequential. There are countless adventures awaiting you if you're willing to seek them out.

Travelers are inherently curious creatures. My wife introduced me to travel many decades ago, and it's the greatest gift I've ever received – other than marrying her!  It has stretched my metaphorical rubber band and changed me forever. So, where will we go next? It's so much fun to contemplate.

Travel, my friends! You won't regret the things you'll see, the people you'll meet, and the adventures you'll have - and who knows, you may find a renewed sense of hope for the world.