Oh, The Places You'll Go!

Oh, The Places You'll Go!

I remember when I first read the Dr. Seuss book, "Oh, The Places You'll Go!" I was probably in grade school, and I thought it was the greatest Dr. Seuss book ever written! Now that I look back, I can honestly say that book has impacted my life in more ways than I ever could have imagined. It is a book of hope, living, optimism, fun and spontaneity - something a lot of us could use more of in our lives.

In some respects, I can understand why a lot of people are not all too fired up to travel. With all of the news on the war, riots in Libya, cartel crimes in Mexico, safety issues with Southwest planes - the list is endless. I will not try to sugar coat any of these very real issues, but what I will say is that there are so many wonderful places in this world to go and see! Safety notwithstanding, travel is a way to go out and see the world, and in so doing, you learn so much about yourself. Some things you learn will be positive; some, not so much, but the experiences will last a lifetime, and can never be taken away.

During the past few weeks I've been plotting out my travels for the year, and it's a daunting tasks, because there is only so much time and money that I have, so I must make good use of both. In my selection process, I take into consideration places I've been before, and places I would like to go. In this business, it's imperative to stay up on the old places, as well as the new "gems" that are out there. Sometimes those "gems" are in our own backyards (so to speak), and some are in far flung places across the world. It is important to step out of our comfort zones and take a leap of faith. Yes, I know that is easier said than done, but I know in my life, the experiences I have learned the most from were not the easy and safe ones, but the ones that stretched me, and made me become the individual I am today. When I read about the individual who has packed up to hit the road on their own private exodus; or the families who have chosen to take their children out of school and travel the world - I say, "Kudos to them!" It is not necessarily the most practical thing in the world, nor can everyone afford to do it, but for those few who can, I tip my cap and wish them the best of luck, because they are embarking on an experience of a lifetime that will be filled with cultural education and a personal journey that can never be duplicated.

Happy trails my friends.

*photo of fountain in Tuileries Garden - Paris, France - taken by That Chick Té

(www.chicksthattrip.com)