I get on social media and what do I see? I see the hashtags "#WeAreOrlando" and "#PrayersforParis." I see pictures of different countries' landmarks lit up in another country's colors to represent mourning of what horrible events took place. A sea of tributes fills my feed. I realize that loved ones have been lost, and among all of this, so has your adventurous spirit.
Today I sat down in my living room and turned on the television, once again being bombarded with the heartbreaking events that had taken place in Istanbul, Turkey. I instantly felt a place so far away from where I was become close, all at once. These emotions overcame me because what was happening in Turkey had a connecting source to a recent event that took place in my own country: Terrorism.
I am about to embark on one of the biggest adventures in my life thus far, and I'm often asked the same question, whether it is from friends, family members, or a random person I met in the Starbucks line: "Aren't you scared to go over there, since ya' know all of the crazy stuff going on?"
My answer is no. I will always answer with a strong and confident no. Responding with this answer holds meaning, this small word is creating a movement to not let terrorism win. It is important to not let their actions define how you carry out your life, whether it is where you travel, live, or explore.
I want to represent the adventurous souls out there. I have intentions to spread awareness that we should not let distress of others hold us back from seeing and experiencing the world. Every time you stay home or cancel your flight, you are letting them win. Once you have stopped enriching yourself and learning about different cultures, you have lost all chances of overcoming these individuals who are carrying out these hideous acts.
The beauty of our earth is tremendous, and the power we hold as individuals is prodigious. You will never feel the true fulfillment in life hiding out in fear. Why should we let such behavior impede on what some of us have set out to do, which is make the world our own? As you venture out into the unknown, people will try to stop you, friends and family will try to stop you, but there will always be war and acts of terrorism, and just everyday accidents. But you have to remember; great things never came from remaining in our comfort zones. Now, I am ready to make an impact. Are you?
