There's something to be said for living an interesting life. Nothing teaches you what's important quite like being put in an unusual situation. Such moments force you to develop as a person – building your problem-solving, interpersonal and creative skills. Life tends to foist these on us, but there are some people who purposely seek out the thrill of unknown circumstances.
My father left post-secondary to travel, initially through the Middle East then India. After a brief return to Canada he set off again, this time with my mother, and they visited Greece along with a smattering of European countries. The stories he brought back – some Terrifying, some Humorous, all with at least one gem of Wisdom – expanded the viewpoints of those who heard them. He always said that traveling provided the best education and I can certainly understand why.
One does not have to cross borders to grow. Being open to new experiences and people, even just in one's home community, can have similar results. The biggest hurtle is getting out there. As adults, we're often pursuing financial stability and working towards the next goal. This can lead us to sit in the comfort and safety of routine. Keeping yourself informed is critical. While the news is usually viewed as a way to do this, engaging in meaningful discussion – and not being afraid to look at something from all sides – is just as important. Such interactions, that reach beyond the superficial, open our eyes to the world.
My dear friend leogrl19's life has been very different from my own, yet that difference – respectfully shared – has provided me with a wider world view. I will never completely comprehend what it's like to be in someone else's position, even if I can empathise with their experience, but it's still affected me. The experience forces me to look at myself and my life differently. It's easy to become wrapped up in your own world – but far more rewarding to push beyond it.
I may not be as inclined to travel to unfamiliar places like my parents did, but I know that Experience is the greatest teacher. Do right by yourself by placing the same value on Personal Growth that you do on Economic Empowerment. The diversity and knowledge we uncover is what makes life Rich. Ultimately, our legacy lives in Stories. What does yours look like?
My father left post-secondary to travel, initially through the Middle East then India. After a brief return to Canada he set off again, this time with my mother, and they visited Greece along with a smattering of European countries. The stories he brought back – some Terrifying, some Humorous, all with at least one gem of Wisdom – expanded the viewpoints of those who heard them. He always said that traveling provided the best education and I can certainly understand why.
One does not have to cross borders to grow. Being open to new experiences and people, even just in one's home community, can have similar results. The biggest hurtle is getting out there. As adults, we're often pursuing financial stability and working towards the next goal. This can lead us to sit in the comfort and safety of routine. Keeping yourself informed is critical. While the news is usually viewed as a way to do this, engaging in meaningful discussion – and not being afraid to look at something from all sides – is just as important. Such interactions, that reach beyond the superficial, open our eyes to the world.
My dear friend leogrl19's life has been very different from my own, yet that difference – respectfully shared – has provided me with a wider world view. I will never completely comprehend what it's like to be in someone else's position, even if I can empathise with their experience, but it's still affected me. The experience forces me to look at myself and my life differently. It's easy to become wrapped up in your own world – but far more rewarding to push beyond it.
I may not be as inclined to travel to unfamiliar places like my parents did, but I know that Experience is the greatest teacher. Do right by yourself by placing the same value on Personal Growth that you do on Economic Empowerment. The diversity and knowledge we uncover is what makes life Rich. Ultimately, our legacy lives in Stories. What does yours look like?
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