Finally, a night without much rain. Slept nicely. Hearty breakfast!
Still feels funny for me to have something of a routine, see the same places and people, have regular wifi and AC. I like this town of Monte Cristi, Republica Dominicana! Scenic, friendly.
I'm thinking of maybe going to Haiti around December 10. If it's dangerous or disgusting, then maybe a quick ten or so day tour of the larger cities. If it's safer or interesting, then maybe a month or so.
I think I may be an "explainer." For years I've wondered what my role is. I'm not a visual artist, an accountant, etc. I think I'm finding out more and more that I'm good at understanding complex things and putting them plainly.
It's so convenient in many respects to stay in one place for a while, instead of traveling. However, I'm already starting (as I had predicted) to feel somewhat ready to leave. Travel is so rewarding, it makes for consistently fresh experiences. I think it's worth the extra costs.
From now on, until my next development of this variety, I want to do more of a mix of travel and work. It's something I've been trying to do for a while. Now I feel more committed to it. Instead of travel first, fitting in work, more of a balance of work and travel.
Sitting in the shade throughout the hottest, sunniest parts of the day, I remember some of the mental travel adventures I've had, getting stuck way out in the middle of nowhere in the middle of the day, having to ride through the sun. One more advantage of staying in one spot.
Despite so many comforts in stasis, the hardships of travel can actually be valuable in their own right. At least in hindsight.
I think it's important to maintain a mix of confidence and doubt. Without confidence, one won't go out there and take on worthy challenges that one can accomplish. Without doubt, one becomes too comfortable, taking things for granted. I think it's hard to strike an appropriate balance. It takes an ongoing commitment to awareness of one's self, one's environment.
I think it's important to ask tons of questions!
What do you think makes for success, in travel or in life?
