Saturday, January 12th, 2013
A few days ago, I flew to Chiang Mai, Thailand to attend a
gathering of around the world motorcycle enthusists. Some were mid-trip, having
ridden here from Europe. Other’s, like me, were simply curious. It was exciting
and terrifying all at once. I went to ask questions, and poke around. Also, I
had to kick the tires of a bike I’m considering buying: a 2003 Honda Africa
Twin – a legendary bike in these circles.
I’m was terrified by the size of the bike, and its cost. The
logistics of the ride were overwhelming; everyone there had planned for so
long. I was excited by the prospects I saw that, if I apply myself, I can
probably make this happen.
Which begs the question: what is this? What is it I plan to
do? What am I doing at this meeting, and why am I here? My intent is to find
happiness in the minds of people across cultures, and this will require that I
ride from Vietnam to Portugal and talk to people about it. I will then share
what I've found, and open new pathways to happiness for other people.
At times, the idea and its purpose are so clear. Other
times, I feel like I’m fooling myself.