Time for some traveling! I’m hanging out with a kindred spirit today, Sarah Bowdidge. She has created a new blog called Reading the World with a mission that is near and dear to my heart. In her words, “My personal goal is to get people thinking (or rethink) their beliefs and to promote a greater sense of world citizenship. Too many people are stuck in the box of nationhood and forget they are first and foremost a citizen of earth.” Hallelujah, sister!
I invite you to read my post about busting past the ‘government view’ of the world to get down and dirty with real people. You know, like, talking. Also, check out Sarah’s book reviews (she even did a fabulous review of Tro-tros and Potholes that made me want to weep) and just give this great new voice in the blogging world some love in general.
First, accept hugs from me. Next step, click here: http://www.sarahreadstheworld.com/guest-post-laura-zera/
Caleb Pirtle says
Laura: Sarah has a fascinating idea and approach to her ideas. It is definitely something we should all consider. We live a live with so many news organizations constantly blasting us with their opinions and agendas that it becomes difficult to really know what we actually believe any more. It’s time to step back and take stock. It would be a healthy exercise for us all.
Laura Zera says
Absolutely, I agree. And also helpful to remember is Bill Gates’ proclamation that all human beings on this planet are equal. Period. When you think of it that way, a lot of crap falls away and understanding what is right and fair becomes a lot clearer.
Jack Durish says
I have met more people, had more meaningful conversations in the virtual world than I ever had in the real one. There always seemed to be a wall between tourists and the indigenous population when travelling in the real world. We visited museums, statues, restaurants, hotels, and other tourist “attractions” while “they” lived their lives in offices, homes, and shops. The only indigenous people we interacted with were trained to put on a show for us. The only time we met “real” people, we exchanged looks of curiosity like we were seeing bare-breasted natives beating their laundry on river rocks. However, in this virtual world, we only see each others words and sometimes a photo. We exchange ideas and dreams. I like it.
Laura Zera says
Hi Jack, thanks for your comment. The virtual world has been fabulous for allowing us to talk to people around the world. I love how I’ve been able to meet people and chat, although there are a lot of really cool people in the world who aren’t online (yet!). And I totally get what you’re saying about ‘the wall’ between tourists and locals. I am a huge proponent of the unplanned, off-the-beaten path kind of travel as a way to get past that wall. Go places that tourists don’t go, e.g. once, I picked my next destination in a country by spinning around in circles and jabbing my finger at the map with my eyes closed. The place I picked was awful, but I have some funny stories about my time there as a result! I have also met soooooo many great people by taking public transit and talking to the drivers and passengers (and then sometimes ended up going home with a passenger and staying at their house). It’s harder to do that when there’s more than one or two of you, but still, the opportunities are there if you’re not afraid to strike up a conversation with anybody and everybody. Some will look at you like you’re a weirdo and some will engage. You have nothing to lose!
Jodi Lobozzo Aman says
Loved it! Hugs!
Laura Zera says
Thanks, Jodi! Hugs back to you.