See the World, Change the World

 

 

 

I love this travel agency motto, “See the world, change the world, and I believe it’s true.

Travel, Domestic or International–is my favorite kind of learning.

I once got a Chinese fortune cookie saying, “Adventure is its own reward.” I didn’t eat that cookie.

An unknown traveler said, “The world is a canvas to the imagination.”

Mark Twain said, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” Amen!

I’ve loved having students from foreign countries stay in our home for usually a year and in one case three years. What could be better than visiting them in theirs? It looks like I’ll soon be going to Denmark to do the same, but I’m not a tourist there—I’m a privileged extended family member and get to experience their nation from the inside.

I have a bright, hardworking, now retired friend who is probably the most skilled traveler I know. She tries not to visit most places twice, and researches her trips thoroughly in advance. She usually goes with friends or a tour group, but in addition usually hires a personal guide for a day or more to absorb the personal eperiences and stories group tours can’t tuck in. I am beyond blessed that she read my A Traveling Grandma’s Guide to Israel: Adventures, Wit, and Wisdom before it released last November, only days before her own trip to Jordan and Israel. She says that tidbits in my book made her add some lesser-known,  fascinating destinations to her itinerary. She even endorsed my book! One day we hope to travel together.

Another attorney, nurse, writer friend says, “I believe the planning and anticipation of a trip is as much a great delight as the actual trip.” I agree with that, too, and we’ve shared notes recently on places I’ve been where she’s going soon. She’s agreed to send post cards. I’ve collected those since I was a kid, and my grandkids know they’ll receive them from places I go.

I recently bought this large gemstone globe for one of my sons. It showcases delight for this beautiful world the Lord has fashioned for us to learn about and enjoy its people.

What about you? What’s the best trip you’ve taken? Or where do you hope to travel and why?

Until next time,

Delores