It is in the nature of adults to say things like, “If I were in your place, here’s what I’d do…” or “When I was young, I did…”, or any number of variations on the theme of what you should do based on what they did. Being an old person myself, I can’t help but say just one thing…appreciate the time you have and use it in a way that makes you happy. This time in Ecuador has helped me to reassess what is important to me, what I like to do, and what I don’t like to do. It taught me how to power through the "not fun" things, so I can savor the "fun stuff." I’m better at being alone, and I also value my family and friends in a whole new way. I’m so grateful for all the people in my life who care about me and love me. I am also getting better at trying new things and not feeling so self conscious, or worried about what other people might think. I’m proud of the work I am doing here to support my partner organization and everything I’ve learned from them. Mountain climbing helped me find a braver part of myself that I didn’t know was there, too.
My last thought, which might fit into the category of unsolicited advice, is about the power of travel. I’m especially glad that I took the chance, and dramatically rearranged my life, to spend this year in Ecuador. Aside from the obvious fact that travel is about new experiences, stamps in your passport, and great photo opportunities, it has the power to change you for the better. You will discover strength and resilience in yourself by venturing beyond what you know.
I’ve been reading a book about British travel literature between WWI and WWII, called Abroad by Paul Fussell. I am amused by how people in the 1920s and 1930s had the same frustrations about their home country as people do today.
