Wow. While I am not surprised at this in a way I am kind of disappointed, especially that only 30% of Americans have a passport. I know not everyone shares my values or even desire when it comes to international travel. Educating myself about the travel industry, there are even definitions for different types of travelers. America indeed is a beautiful country, with a variety of things to do and experience. However, part of me wishes that everyone HAS to leave the country at some point in their lives to go somewhere different, experience something beyond their comfort zone. I know there are a lot of obligations people face that may prevent them from doing some of the things they would like to do in terms of making trips, especially with the work culture. But geez, 30% of Americans have passports? Compared to 60% and 75% of Canada and UK, respectively???? I guess it is something that if you value you will make a regular part of your life just as anything else. I am not a billionaire (yet, ha!) but I make it a point to get away simply because I feel as though travel is so enriching. It is a natural high for me. Well, the stars were aligned in such a way when I was born that it is inevitable that I make it a part of my life, but I think a large part of that passion has been imprinted in me because of my upbringing.
So much to see, so much to learn, so much to do! Going the distance in search of whatever it is you may be searching for, the discovery that other people, while they may be of a different culture, religion, and ethnicity, you have more in common than you may think. Their stories are not that different. Their experiences are not that different either. I sometimes think about language barriers Americans may experience when we go other places or even come in contact with foreigners in our own country. I find it amazing that other cultures require English as a second language but that as *we*reside in a superpower of the world, it is common to see Americans frown on foreigners who cannot speak English.
So much to see, so much to learn, so much to do! Going the distance in search of whatever it is you may be searching for, the discovery that other people, while they may be of a different culture, religion, and ethnicity, you have more in common than you may think. Their stories are not that different. Their experiences are not that different either. I sometimes think about language barriers Americans may experience when we go other places or even come in contact with foreigners in our own country. I find it amazing that other cultures require English as a second language but that as *we*reside in a superpower of the world, it is common to see Americans frown on foreigners who cannot speak English.
Without going any deeper, it is really my goal to bring at least one person that comes into my life at some point, OUT of their comfort zone. If I can find that one person who maybe has never even left their city limits and pull them away to another place for at least a day, I feel as though I would have made a huge accomplishment in life, even if they didn't see the point or don't enjoy it as much as I would. Seriously!
Ok, rant over.....
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