Uncle B.

Wrapping up in Central America…. And shifting gears. What is next?

As I reflect at 14,000 feet above the earth, in the frigid 30-degree mountain air, far from the nearest cell signal and 2,000 miles from home—ironically closer to truth and those most important to me. The truth in reality in what is important in life becomes as apparent as my breath cutting through the air and the endless silence and expansive horizon which surrounds me.

During this near-winter-long trip, my inbox and comments have filled with people who are curious, envious, and appreciative of being able to share this journey with me. As I close this chapter and begin the trek home, I'm reflecting on the many moments and lessons learned while I plan my next moves—and rest my sore muscles. I will share a bit beyond what pictures and videos cannot capture or express. I encourage you to take these words as a small seed to sow as your own, finding your own truth and path to a life well lived no matter who you are, what you believe, who you love, what language you speak or where you choose to call home.

My time here has opened my mind, eyes, heart, and soul to what's possible—and perhaps most importantly, to what is not necessary. Whether it's "things" money can buy, emotional, political or petty battles, or relationships in your life that don't bring value, none of it will matter when it's your time to meet your maker (or whatever you believe). What matters is the life you choose, the lives you touch, the people you help and love, and the memories made on this short trip around the sun—a trip we too often take for granted while dwelling on trivial things that don't matter.

I have found these authentic moments between complete strangers bring more value than some we choose to allow in our lives or our thoughts day to day. Even if they are strangers speaking different languages, sharing a moment in life as short as a flash in a pan.

Many have said to me, "I wish I could," "Maybe someday," or "You're so lucky." The reality is, it's not about a magical wish or luck. It's about a series of life choices, hard work, committing to a bit of the unknown, and daring to live—and to look at the way you interact with the world and those around you—differently. You don't have to travel halfway around the world, climb a volcano, or test your bodily limits to find peace, challenge the negativity, or envision your pathway to the life or love you want and deserve. Whether you choose to take your version of this journey or simply reflect in your place of comfort—dive in head first to the world and the positive people around you. Live, laugh, love, and dance like no one is watching. In the end, nothing else matters. I wish each of you who follow along my life’s journey the best in yours…

Volcano eruptions…

Where has this been all of my life??