Jun 17, 2015

By yourself?

This year, during my summer break, I decided to take a road trip to Montana and Wyoming.  I had initially planned a trip out to California, but plans changed, and I was equally excited to see two states I hadn't visited.  By far, the question I got asked the most was, "By yourself?"

Yes, I planned a trip by myself.  If you think this is weird, or if it offends you in some way, please stop reading now.  Nothing I say about the adventure I had will change your opinion.  Being alone on a trip makes you grow and learn.  It makes you depend on the kindness of others.  It makes you stop, slow down, and appreciate the little things.  It gives you the opportunity to connect with nature, meet new people, and reflect and think for yourself. In short, it makes you a stronger person.  I think more people should travel alone, clearly. 

Also, newsflash!  I manage to wake up and get dressed every day, "by myself."  In fact, as an adult, I think that's one of the first qualifications: to be able to do things by yourself. =)  Men travel alone all the time and no one thinks this is weird.  No one was able to go with me, but I didn't want to regret not taking the trip, not seeing the world when I had the time and resources to do this.  

For me, it comes down to one thing: Will I live a life filled with regrets, or will I LIVE a life?

I choose B.