Washington, DC… and then Home

Back to the US after a fast-paced tour through an amazing variety of places.

How rewarding the trip was….. the appeal of this kind of travel is waking up every day knowing that you will see or learn something you have never seen or maybe even thought of before. We met a lot of fascinating people….. and were reassured that there are still many thoughtful, caring citizens in this increasingly-polarized world.

On the other hand, we got a little tired of trudging around in a group, off and on buses big and small for long trips and short trips. We were happier skipping some of the planned activities in favor of simply walking around. And nobody seemed surprised that most of the travelers came home with a small case of Covid… since recovered, in our case.

Accolades are due to National Geographic for putting together a broad array of experiences and seeing to a jillion details so that we could concentrate on developing more understanding and respect for cultures and histories so unlike our own.

We return to Washington, DC and from there take a road trip back to the desiccated husk that is East Texas after many weeks of oppressive heat and drought.

Until next time, please…. Go in peace. And you don’t have to “go” in a private jet…..

… You can go instead to the new Ethiopian restaurant across town, or go to a nearby archeological site (there are more than you think!) or go to the local library to learn something about a culture you have never heard of (ask a librarian!) or go to a music or dance performance for sounds and rhythms from another corner of the world. Take yourself away from the familiar with an open mind and be prepared to be deeply affected….. You may feel a little diminished in the process, but also more integrated with the richness, history and variety of the people who populate this precious, fragile planet.

Go! …. In peace.