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Fly Away

 “Until you spread your wings, you’ll never know how far you can fly.”

For as long as I can remember, there has been a relentless pull within me; a desire to fly away, to explore beyond the boundaries of familiarity, and to immerse myself in the cultural richness of our world.

It all started over 15 years ago with a pivotal moment: my first international trip to the Dominican Republic for humanitarian purposes. Little did I know then that this remarkable trip (*along with teaching in a challenging multicultural school) would set the stage for a life defined by adventure, discovery, and personal growth.

Since that transformative experience, my life has been a whirlwind of movement and exploration. I've been blessed with the opportunity to experience living and working abroad, both in the UAE and in Vietnam, and along the way, I've had the privilege to traverse more than 40 countries, each offering its own unique blend of culture, history, landscape and perspective.

Looking back, it's fascinating to trace the evolution of my aspirations. Initially, my heart yearned to simply travel abroad; to learn about other cultures. Then, came the idea to move abroad; to break free from the familiar and embrace the unknown. After that, came the ambition to witness the world's wonders firsthand; to stand in awe before ancient monuments and natural marvels. As my journey unfolded, another goal emerged; to tick off as many countries as possible from my travel bucket list.

I can’t deny that amidst the exhilaration of exploration, there have most definitely been moments of uneasiness. It's quite common for people to ask how I manage to navigate the world solo and to venture into unfamiliar territories, without the comfort of companionship. The truth is, behind the lens of adventure lies vulnerability, uncertainty, and occasional loneliness, but it is precisely in these moments of discomfort that I find the greatest opportunities for self-discovery and resilience. Traveling, particularly alone, has been a catalyst for personal growth. The years of exploration have taught me a multitude of lessons and I am beyond grateful for the opportunities I've had, the people I've met, and the perspectives I've gained.


Most recently, I embarked on a two-week journey alone to Thailand as I was looking for an opportunity to pause, to rejuvenate, and to reflect before beginning a new chapter of my professional teaching career. While Thailand wasn't a new destination for me, it still offered new experiences, as well as countless moments of clarity and introspection. I reminded myself throughout my travels that every step, every detour, has brought me closer to where I am meant to be; a testament to the transformative power of taking risks and chasing one's dreams.

Travel, for me, is not only about visiting new places or collecting passport stamps, at least not anymore. It's a journey of personal evolution; a continuous pursuit of growth and understanding. It's about pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and finding beauty in the unexpected. Each experience, whether alone or with company, serves as a reminder that growth often begins at the edge of one's comfort zone. 

So, to those who dream of flying away, of venturing beyond the horizon; take the leap and you may discover wings you never knew you had. Embrace the journey and embrace the unknown. It is in taking risks and pursuing dreams that we discover the true extent of our capabilities and the limitless potential of the rich world around us. Fly away, and let each adventure shape the person you are destined to become.



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