...That wasn't too difficult. This is my nephew Ryan at 8 months... Adorable, just like his uncle. He is a big part of my inspiration to set out on my journey. I see him about once a week or so and we hang out and have good times but afterward, I go home, to my mortgage-less rented apartment, by myself to no wife. Lonely? can be...but liberating. Many of my contemporaries dread this life style and often lament their singleness in their 30's with me over adult beverages. I'd be lying if I said I didn't at times, however, Ryan strengthened my realization that life is life and every situation provides opportunities (ohm). My brother has the joy of fatherhood and having a family, but he has traded the liberation I have to do so. While I look forward to this time in my life, it isn't here yet. So I must take advantage of my lack of attachment and lack of responsibilities. Passing it up would be regrettable to say the least.
I've always loved travel and always will, but now is the time I am physically able to take the beating to see and do some truly amazing things; climb Kilimanjaro, raft class 5 rapids (which I did in Costa Rica..Awesome), dive the Great Barrier Reef, live in shitty accomodations. I likely won't have the strength, ability or desire to trek the Himalayas in my 50's, 60's and beyond. Those years are probably more amenable to visiting muesums and vineyards with my wife.
So thank you Ryan for giving me the viceral understanding that I am liberated, and it is a gift and an opportunity which may be fleeting. God knows, you may have a cousin in a year or two and my liberty will be a memory. But today I have the ability to step on an airplane and just go
