Coming Home After Traveling (A Brief Summary)
If I had to choose one word to sum up my travel experience, it would be freedom. Freedom because of not having any commitments, being solo, and indulging in my desire to explore. I had the option to go anywhere. After experiencing this kind of freedom, I was dreading coming home; but by the end of my trip, my body was run down and I needed a break. I was excited to see my family. I expected certain things when coming back to the US, but there were also things that surprised me.
Coming home, I knew I would get frustrated with the American mindset, and I did. I was offended by ignorance, selfishness, and a lack of awareness. But through these things is where I found something beautiful. I was able to share my new experiences and knowledge in a way that diminished these cultural barriers and reconnected people to compassion. I was able to see people’s surprised expression when I shared. I was afraid of getting sucked back into the mindset after being home for too long. I have become hyper-aware of the “comfortable living” lifestyle. I notice when I am tempted by it, when it’s okay to be comfortable, and how to live “comfortably” through a minimalist lifestyle.
After being home for six months now, I understand my travels better. I have the full picture. I still have a free spirit, a drive for adventure and exploration, and a heart for those less fortunate. But I have also begun to understand the concept of a support system, I don’t have to do everything on my own. I have also started to grasp the need to build yourself up. For example I am looking into different entrepreneurial directions and possible online degrees/careers to better support my travels.
What has traveling taught you? Where has it taken you in life?
