I had an adventure. An unexpected journey at an impressionable age, that propelled me FAR beyond my physical and psychological limits. Had I known what would happen, I never would have left home.
“I can’t do this, I’m afraid, I’m not cut out for this sort of thing …” were familiar refrains that populated my thoughts.
But days passed and I had survived. I was doing it! I was doing that thing I was so certain I could/should never do: travel throughout southeast Asia and India - by myself!
The days turned to weeks and weeks turned to months. Until I was getting low on money and realizing this life-changing experience had to come to an end. I was finally done with the most significant journey of my short life. It was time to go home to whatever would be next. But I wasn’t the same woman who had left eight months earlier.
“From Saginaw to Srinagar” is more than simply my diary of travel experiences. It is a retelling of my personal renewal that left me braver, more empowered, and more confident. I want my memoir to be a force, an inspiration, a catalyst for anyone curious about the world. Curious about how other people think and thrive and survive. Curious about how they dress and dine, how they travel and transact, how they play and pray, and how they love and live in environments vastly different from ours.
Whether you’re 24 or 74, there’s so much to experience beyond our borders. And so much to learn.
Yes, there are obstacles: money, time and those uncomfortable airplane seats spring immediately to mind. We’re taught to be cautious, to play it safe, to not take chances. But what is life, if not to really live it?
As the great philosopher, Dr. Seuss, famously said: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”
Please enjoy reading about my experience. Then, go create one of your own!
