We live in an amazing and great nation but we also live in an incredibly interesting and wonderful world.
I started traveling globally as a young man to many countries, often backpacking and often staying in youth hostels throughout Europe and the Middle East. At my current age, I must confess that now I usually stay in hotels (except last year in Barcelona). But I still use many of the techniques learned over the years to travel at greatly reduced rates, like using Skiplagged.com for broader flight options.
Last year I rented a car in the Ukraine and after two blown out tires, due to terrible potholes that are hard to describe as a result of years of communism, I found myself stranded.
Consequently, I spent the night sleeping in a small car on the side of the road in a foreign country in the middle of nowhere enjoying the cool fresh air. It was one of the most memorable times of my life.
As it turns out, the Ukrainians are extremely nice and helpful and they love their Vodka. I turned down their Vodka and they turned down my American dollars to repair my wheels.
Every single one of my journeys has had importance and impacted my world view on many different levels.
When my kids were growing up, I instilled within them the importance of “seeing the world”. And later, sometimes with trepidation, saw them go off on their own to places far beyond our borders. Now that they are adults, I appreciate the value of how their personal experiences helped shaped who they’ve become.
If you’ve never been abroad or it’s been awhile, give it a try or do it again. Whether a vacation or mission trip, I truly believe it could change your life and at the least will broaden your horizons.