So why go?
Why leave a job I love, salary, benefits, kids and co-workers that challenge me and keep me laughing? Why leave a community of friends and a living space that I adore? Why leave the safety of what I know and feel comfortable with?
I have never been one to choose the easiest path. When I was a senior in high school I moved to France to be an exchange student with only about two years of weak high school French under my belt. Twice I have moved across country to places where I knew only one or two people. And most recently, I moved to western Massachusetts to help open a school, not knowing anyone but the person who hired me.
But this feels different. Friends love to make fun of me and my endless list making. If nothing else, I am practical and pragmatic. I love making lists. I love planning for the future. But now, all I know is that I will be traveling for 9 months. I know there is no way to plan out all of the trip. I cannot foresee every change that will come my way, every bump in the road. Or what exciting adventures I will find out there!
This adventure is going to be a challenge. I anticipate that I will see and learn and grow in endless, countless ways. But really…. so why go? Here are my reasons – both big and small.
1. because it’s there. Like Mallory, I want to go for the sake of going – for the adventure. I want to see what’s out there. I want to climb and trek and hike all over the world.
2. I want to learn spanish.
3. I love my job, love my work – but there is a whole big world out there – ready for me. I don’t want to be that disgruntled teacher, going through the motions year after year. I hope to return after this year fresh and ready to jump back into the hard work of teaching.
4. There is so much cool stuff out there — I need to see it! Being a biology teacher, I am continuously in awe of the world and natural wonders. I cannot wait to see the Himalayas, the Andes, the beaches of Vietnam, Thai temples and Patagonia.
Hi Aurora. This really resonated with me. I will be traveling for all of those reasons. The world is so fascinating. I just need to get out there and breathe it in.
This is impressive. I truly understand your reasons and your desires. Good for you!
Crap, just realized the comment I wrote on the “About Planet Aurora” page I should have added here…