International travel, exploration, and interdependence

Picture taken from: travelmaestro.wordpress.com

Feet. Bicycles. Motorcycles. Cars. Trucks. Semis. Skis. Dogsleds. Helicopters. Planes. Jets. Rockets. Blimps. Hot Air Balloons. Trains. Trams. Buses. Subways. Taxis. Horse-drawn buggies. Boats. Ships. Jet-skis. Submarines. Tanks.

We have found all sorts of ways to get from one place to the next. It is a beautiful thing because we as individuals are more aware and we as nations are more dependent. However, having access to so many regions isn't something we should exploit without wisdom and consideration for others. Let's be mindful of our impact on others and their societies. Are you actions endangering others? Are your comforts enslaving others? From a glance, these things never seem to be the case. But take a deeper look. Stand up for the rights of others as loudly as you stand up for your own.

Exploration and Experience

In wisdom gathered over time I have found that every experience is a form of exploration. - Ansel Adams

I have done a lot of exploration in my life, but I don't feel very experienced. Or sometimes I feel somewhat experienced, but I don't appreciate the opportunities to explore. But looking back at my time overseas, my time traveling, my time in various jobs and vacations and outings and relationships, I do see how each experience was in some way an exploration. Exploration doesn't always have to be linked to actual places, but can include exploration of the soul, of character, of faith, of anything that helps you better understand yourself, others, the world, and your impact on these things.