Some people are content with letting life live them, taking things as they come. If they can be happy living that way, fine by me. I totally support that. I, for one, am not the best at sitting still.
Young people nowadays have been using the term “wanderlust” quite frequently in a desperate appeal to be understood. I don't blame them.
In a world that predominantly encourages practicality, those of us who desire nothing more than to continually experience new things are stifled.
Traveling isn't impractical. It isn't just for the old and rich. The already cultured and experienced. People with fancy cars and nice clothes.
If only people that fit into these stipulations were the ones traveling, culture would stagnate.
We need more young people out experiencing the world! Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, ready to take on the world! Too often, the kids who start off with this attitude are told that they have to wait until they're rich and famous, that they're being naive, that they should focus on a career.
WHY DO ADULTS DO THAT?!?!!
Why on earth would you take away their dreams?
I just don't understand. One moment adults are complaining about the lack of creativity and drive in younger generations, and the next they condemn those who possess those qualities. Makes zero sense.
By allowing young people to explore the world around them, we allow them to gain more insight, more maturity, more drive to contribute! I see no harm in that.
Before someone says it, yes, the world isn't a big, happy, safe place. I get that. Stop sheltering your kids. Eventually, they need to go live their lives. Most things worth doing require effort and risk-taking.
Kiddos, don't be afraid to explore those jungles, climb those mountains, jump out of those planes, swim in that ocean. Even if it scares you! Face your fears and conquer them! Listen to stories told by an elderly tribal leader in a faraway land, or work alongside archaeologists. Heck, explore outer space. Do what you want to do! You CAN make it happen, I promise you.
God created this beautiful planet and creatures to inhabit it. I'm sure he never intended for us to become dull creatures that choose to ignore all the truly amazing things the universe has to offer.
My earnest plea is that we can keep curiosity alive. That urge to know more and understand the world around us is one of the most beautiful parts of being human. If that dies, part of our humanity dies with it.
So don't be afraid. Curiosity doesn't always kill the cat, and besides, we aren't cats. Go get 'em, human!
