Finding Excitement in Life's Quiet Moments
It is a common belief that a fulfilling and exciting life is one filled with constant change and thrill. However, as I reflect on my current situation, I realize that my life is not exceptionally thrilling, yet it carries its own unique brand of zest and contentment.
A Balanced Life
Despite the lack of constant excitement, I have a lot to be grateful for. I am surrounded by good people who lift me up when I need them, and I am blessed with a life that is comfortable and meaningful. Retired life, with its freedom from the constraints of a daily routine, has its charms. Recently, my wife and I embraced our life in a motorhome, allowing us to travel the nation for half a year, enjoying the quiet pleasures that life has to offer.
Adventures and Learning
Our recent adventure in Idaho, specifically the drive up the Salmon River, was a thrilling experience, filled with natural beauty. Despite the challenging road conditions and potential danger, the sights and sounds of the natural world around us were simply astounding. The peaks of snow-topped mountains, the winding river, and the wildlife like ospreys and a grizzly bear added to the excitement.
Geology and Nature's Wonders
While on our journey, we had the opportunity to explore geology and learn about the planet's natural wonders. We witnessed fault lines, lava flows, slate with fossils, and a wide array of rock formations. These experiences provided a deeper understanding of the Earth's history and the fascinating processes that shaped it. The up-thrusted bedded mountains, hogsbacks, and intermixed rocks like basalt, anorthosite, and obsidian were just a few of the geological features we encountered. Each stop offered a new lesson, making the journey educational as well as thrilling.
Daily Activities and Personal Growth
Despite the excitement of these adventures, there are days when the quiet moments seem to reign supreme. Walking with trekking sticks, which serve as our "human 4WD", is a daily activity that brings its own sense of joy and fulfillment. We strive to reach a daily goal of 6000 steps, with July 4th as an unofficial milestone, to keep our bodies active and our spirits high. Our wanderlust has led us to explore different terrain and places, where we continuously learn about geology and build a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Living in the Moment
Our life in a motorhome is not just about traveling and seeing new places. It is also about the deliberate choice to live before we die. We plan our trips based on the weather, prioritizing good weather to avoid the discomfort of heavy storms. We avoid political discussions and only socialize with kind people, as we value our time and the peace of mind it brings. This lifestyle suits our needs, providing us with the freedom to enjoy life on our own terms.
Encouraging Others to Explore
As I look back on this life I've chosen for myself, I am filled with a sense of satisfaction and gratitude. I hope that everyone gets the chance to experience a life of their own choosing, free from the constraints of what society or others might deem as normal. If you miss out on such a life, you truly don't know what you're missing.