So this first post must be dedicated to one of the strongest reasons why this trip is even possible. The people in my life. From all the people who got their haircuts and talked about travel, to the friends and brothers who urged this move into reality. From all the new people I've met and been invited to their families homes by just saying "I'm traveling around the world," to my rock solid family who helped me prepare for something like this in more ways than one. I officially feel ready...as ready as I can be. As fear and doubt always hold me close, it was and is-no doubt- these people who perpetuated my determination in at least attempting to live out this dream. And for them I am truly thankful.
I hope that everyone enjoys reading this. I feel that writing is one of many gifts of expression...one that I happen to love and I hope that I am half way decent at. I've kept journals before as well as blogs...but I have never been faced with the idea of a full years writings depicting so many different places and experiences. It still numbs me to think of the idea of eating Pho in Vietnam or catching a cab in Casa Blanca. Praying in the desert, or hiking in the Himalayas. In preparation for this trip I've been faced many times all ready with the fact of the possibility of death. But the truth is is that death is always among us and we can only prevent it by making healthy decisions...beyond this there is nothing we can do to avoid it. I've become very comfortable with this idea...at least in theory...I definitely won't be taking this one to the lab to experiment. Not everywhere in the world is a safe place anymore but people remain the same in the sense that even in all of the bad there is at least some good.
Here's to all of the wonderful people who make it easy to find the good in life.
About Me
- Al-Rihaala
- Somewhere, Planet Earth
- No worries, you're in the right place. This is Thomas' blog page. For those confused with the name Al-Rihaala, it is an Arabic title (please don't be afraid...no terrorists here!) It means "the explorer" or "the traveler." Guys like Ibn Batuta, Marco Polo and the likes of Lewis-n-Clark would have donned this title. Quite an appropriate name for this type of thing don't you think? This blog will document my one year backpack excursion around the world...ready? Well alright then!
3 comments:
Let me be the first one who give you a comment :P. To tell the truth, I envy you so much. I will definitely update your journey all the way until the end. One year seems so slow but actually quite fast, hope you enjoy these valuable moments with laughing and happiness. :)
Hey Tommy!!! This sounds so cool. Can I go with you? ; ) I’m sending your message out to a few friends who have families in places on your list. I’ll look forward to reading about your adventures.
Much Love,
Shannon
P.S. Have you seen the Michael Franti film "I Know I'm Not Alone"? It seems relevant to some of the ideas in your first post.
Peace brother. I am glad that you are doing this for YOU. This is your time, your adventure and we are all proud of you. I want to leave you with some words from Chuong Tzu. Use them to remind yourself of the reason "why" you are doing this trip for you.
Do not seek fame. Do not make plans. Do not be absorbed by activities. Do not think that you know. Be aware of all of that is and dwell in the infinite. Wander where there is no path. Be all the heaven gave you, but act as though you have received nothing. Be empty, that is all.
The mind of a perfect man is like a mirror. It grasps nothing. It expects nothing. It reflects but does not hold. Therefore, the perfect man can act withought effort.
Love ya bro.
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