A moody look at ireland
Living a nomadic lifestyle is quite different than being a tourist or even an expatriate. After having roamed for multiple years, I'm finally able to back that statement up with enough experiences to explain my thoughts on the subject a little better. My natural inclinations are toward slow travel, the kind that allows me to even live in a special location for up to 90 days on my American passport. I have had the opportunity to do so and always end up wanting to return to these places because of the connections that I made in the process.
Have I discovered paradise?
Ronda, Spain
The quick answer to the question is “NO”. However, that’s not exactly the complete truth. What I have found along the way are places that literally break my heart with sheer natural beauty. In addition, I have had the luxury of developing a more intimate relationship with communities and local residents which has given me the opportunity to discover what daily life is really like for them.
What have I learned?
I have finally learned that there is no such thing as paradise on earth. Most countries, regions and communities offer many pros and cons for choosing to live there. As an outsider, I can never have the exact perspective of the natives, since I come with my own cultural expectations, limitations and privileges. I can sense, however, that those born and raised within the boundaries of wherever are usually not anymore or less content than those born and raised within the boundaries of elsewhere. That may be my most astute observation and wisest original saying.
Guatemala early morning
Why do you go?
For those of us who have experienced travel outside the comfort zone of our own country, our reasons for doing so, no doubt, vary tremendously. Some folks work hard all year and plan their great escape where they can relax or stay busy doing the kinds of things that most tourists enjoy. Others may go so far as to actually relocate permanently outside their home country for a whole slew of reasons ranging from economic considerations, to weather conditions, to enjoying a higher standard of living for less money.
But what about the nomad?
Some say that the nomad, the eternal restless spirit, may be running away from something. I cannot speak for all nomads. I have examined my own spirit of wanderlust on more than one occasion though, and still do not know exactly the forces within that drive me to go to such lengths. Yet, realizing that there is no such thing as paradise on earth gives me an edge, making it possible to consider living anywhere or nowhere.
Overlooking the city of Prague
Am I cynical?
I hope not! Nor am I naïve, I trust. What I cannot seem to overlook is universal suffering and universal joy, not always in equal amounts. As I bask in a four-star hotel, I am always aware that there are neighborhoods, often right outside my door, where people live in abject poverty. I am fully aware that the nice, rather reserved woman that cleans my house or the gardener that takes care of my yard, have families, hopes and dreams that may never be fulfilled because of low wages and lack of opportunity. Even in the streets of my own home country the poor are seen and most frequently ignored. A vague niggling thought that I’m so glad that doesn’t have to be me posing a threat to my peace and tranquility.
On the other hand, I also can’t help but notice the love and adoration in the eyes of parents from all over the world as they proudly show off their babies. I see love in the parks and town plazas where young girls holding the hands of their handsome lovers sit on benches and share a bite to eat. I celebrate the individuals here and there who persevere at growing a small business and succeed at any level. I see people in good health and sound mind enjoying a beautiful summer day and I am reminded that when I have my health, I have it all.
View From the Isle of Saba
Joy and suffering are everywhere
I still have many exotic locations on my bucket list to visit, none of which will ever be paradise. Yet, I can’t bring myself to permanently stick close to home quite yet. Not because home is any better or any worse than many places in the world, but because as long as I have my health, I will feel an irresistible urge to see what lies just around the bend.
First published May 19, 2013 on Creative Paths to Freedom
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