Charles Dickens once wrote in his classic novel A Christmas Carol that "It is required of every man, that the spirit within him should walk among his fellowmen, and travel far and wide, and if that spirit goes not forth in life, it is condemned to do so after death..."
Perhaps a bit grim sounding as a start to The Mediocre Wanderer's Christmas edition, but it encompasses my thoughts and ideas on Joie de Vivre, or the joy of living.
For the last 12 months, TMW has been far and near to see the sights, enjoy cultures and meet new people. It was quite an experience, enjoying the beauty of the Philippines, the wonders of nature and how innovative and great the Filipinos are. To a certain degree, we have "walked among our fellowmen, and traveled far and wide". However, this Christmas, (and each and every day of our lives), a new journey is in order.
Dickens sure got it right when he urged his fellowmen to reach out to others while one is still able to do so. Helping those who are less fortunate, being kind to others and respecting each and everyone's rights must be our maxim in life.
There's so much beauty in life and in others to let that opportunity pass us by. What good is a life half lived? What good is a life that is but self-centered and devoid of purpose? Let's not put it off till the end. Let's not live a life full of "what ifs" and "if only".
Perhaps, the best travel destination is bringing one's self to a utopia of sorts. Getting there isn't done by booking online, or scouring the net for promos, but doing a kind deed or saying a kind word to someone else.
This Christmas and always, may all your interpersonal wanderings NOT BE mediocre.
For those with itineraries here and abroad, for business or for pleasure, this one's for you:
From TMW, may all your wanderings be better than ours!
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