Richest Man in the World
While in L.A. last week, I stayed with my buddy Ryan, who I met in Argentina a year or so ago. I was just back from my Antarctic expedition and he was on his way. In typical traveler style, he joined me for a cup of morning coffee in the hostel and we ended spending the day hiking Tierra del Fuego National Park and became fast friends.
Ryan was heading to Antarctica as part of his plan to visit all 7 continents in a year — which he did. And then last year he visited all 50 states in a year. (He is obviously a very goal-oriented guy!). He wrote about what he learned on his travels and I persuaded him to let me post his thoughts as a guest article. And here it is:
The Richest Man in the World
In the past 14 months I have been lucky enough to be able to go to all 7 continents and now all 50 states. I may not make a million dollars, but the experiences I’ve had, and the friends that I have met along the way make me the richest man in the world. Throughout my travels I have come to realize a few things:
Good Nature – People in general fear what they don’t know. But if you give people a chance I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. I challenge you to assume the best in people! Does that give you the right to travel like an idiot, no. But a smile and a kind gesture go a long way, no matter what language you do or don’t speak.
Truth – This is going to be a touchy subject, but I’ll tackle it by saying that this world was created without borders and man’s greed and desire to be the best has made us all hoarders of what we think is a precious commodity. Each person is entitled to his or her own truth. Whether that be race, creed, sexual orientation, religion, politics, whatever it may be. People have the right to their own TRUTH. So many people die in this world in useless fights over differences its sickening. So be respectful and mindful of others and don’t try and force or browbeat anyone into believing what is your truth (this is different than a critical discussion).
Perspective - The moment you step into an underdeveloped country and realize no matter how bad your day is going back home it is a million times better than 90+ percent of the world, so quit whining and enjoy the day! One of my favorite things to tell a person is you’re either a Tigger or an Eeyore. Choose to be the Tigger and enjoy life no matter what.
Carpe Diem – Seize the day! Get outside. Step out from behind the keys of your message board, and put the phone down. If you spend your whole life behind a desk and remain in this rat race you’ll miss the whole point in life. Get out of your comfort zone. Be yourself, love what you do and you will never have to “work” another day in your life.
People always ask how I’m able to travel so much. It’s easy to find an excuse not to travel for most people. You have to find the money and make the time. Traveling is an investment in yourself, after all you can’t take it with you.
I have a new appreciation for “America The Beautiful.” It is my opinion that we live in the greatest country on this earth. That is why I have carried this flag with me to ALL 7 continents and all 50 states.
“Life is a book, and those who don’t travel read only one page”
BANGARANG,
-Ryan “Higgy”
This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 12th, 2014 and is filed under Travel Favorites.