As I begin to wrap things up before I head off to college, I’ve started to reminisce and recollect on times when I have been given the opportunity to travel and venture out. I think of family vacations or day trips to the beach, but something’s missing. Whether it’s the same old repetitiveness or a lack of breathtaking, eye-opening, or even head-turning thrill, I yearn to explore more. So as I am soon alone and away from home, out in the real world for the first time, I know it’s time for a change of scenery. It doesn’t matter to me if it’s walking, running, climbing, or flying; I want to branch myself out as far as I can for as long as I can. I no longer have anything holding me back from trying unique things and taking on new adventures.
These dreams are now in reach as I begin the next chapter in my life. I aim to make the most of the years ahead of me and live my life to the fullest. Appreciating the journey has allowed me to experience more and become a better, well-rounded person. There’s beauty in taking in all of life as it comes at you and reciprocating it out towards the people you love and meet. This way of thought has helped guide me through my recent years, and I can clearly see the effect it’s had on me and others.
I see myself reaching heights beyond my imagination as I cross borders, trek hills, and admire landscapes. I don’t think of needing a reason to go travel, but I think about where to go next. Why not try to accomplish these exciting interests and make everlasting memories along the way? The most available option to see out these goals comes with college, which is approaching quicker than ever. Getting to meet new faces and learn an area from scratch is an opportunity I wouldn’t trade for anything else. College provides a source of community and relationships that can connect people for life. I want to travel abroad during my tenure studying in order to learn new cultures and pioneer countries surrounded by friends who share the same “Jack Napolitano outlooks” as I do.
On this trip, my dream is to visit the snowy mountains in Chile in order to hike Patagonia. The views and atmosphere there are breathtaking to say the least, and I am dying to visit. Getting to feel the fresh water and climb the jagged edges are something I know will be amazing to do someday. Capturing that early morning sunrise across the horizon and camping out in a tent to catch the sunset. These are just some of the experiences I’ve finally set my mind on, and every day is one step closer to them coming to fruition.
The more I travel, the more outgoing and giddy I am to try and attempt new skills or activities. Being away from home gives you a different perspective and a refreshing sense of freedom that you can’t find anywhere else. I can’t wait for the path that is laid out in front of me and where I choose to leap towards next. I say that now is a better time than ever to be bold and pursue those lingering thoughts, those what-ifs? Take hold of your life’s younger years and live like you were dying. Be creative, be compassionate, and be loving. Don’t try to live forever, just live today.
