“I am a passionate traveler, and from the time I was a child, travel formed me as much as my formal education.” ~ David Rockefeller
When I was a teenager, I desperately wanted to travel abroad. My dream was to see Australia, because it was farthest away from anywhere that I knew, and it was filled with wildlife that could be found nowhere else in the world. I never achieved this dream, but I did eventually travel after I married and before children. I've been to Germany, Hungary, Austria, and England. As much as I loved traveling and exploring with my husband, I do regret that I never was able to travel in my teens. It's the one thing I believe is important for a young person.
Nothing connects a child to their studies like traveling. Museums may display the basic artifacts of ancient civilizations, but nothing can compare to actually seeing the remnants of that civilization. I will always remember my own trip: the Roman ruins in Germany and England; standing before churches and castles that were built 800+ years ago; wandering the streets of Budapest; and the impressive structures of Stonehenge. I'm thankful my artist, Marina, has seen the artistic accomplishments of Michelangelo, DaVinci, Raphael, and Giotto, to name a few. Florence, Italy was her favorite, where she had the chance to do the most wandering.
Now Chase will be traveling. He will be heading to Italy, but going south, instead of north like his sister did. Then he will be going to Greece. Each of us sees a bit of what the last traveler saw, and then adds a new country to our family's list of countries visited. I'm grateful that the kids have relatives that want to travel with them. My sister-in-law, who took Marina to London, will be taking Chase on this trip. While I'm nervous for seeing my young man off on Tuesday, I'm excited for him and can't wait to experience these countries through his eyes.
When Sierra's old enough, I hope I can travel with her. I still need to see Australia.
“Travel, in the younger sort, is a part of education; in the elder, a part of experience.” ~ Francis Bacon
3 comments:
Good luck Chase! Have a great time.
And yes, you do need to visit Australia, Cristina - in particular the Hunter Valley so we can meet :)
In his own quiet way, he looked quite excited! I wish him an exciting trip experience.
Buelo
I agree wholeheartedly. When you are in these ancient places there is a feel, a presence, that can only be experienced in person. This is education that lasts! I am so happy for Marina and Chase. And you WILL get to Australia some day. Love, Mom
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