I didn’t get on a plane for the first time with my family like most do. Instead, my first time on an airplane was with a friend to visit a family that had moved to Florida from our small Illinois farmtown. I have been obsessed with traveling ever since. I will jump at any opportunity to explore somewhere new or just be in a different place than home.

I was with my dad and brother when they saw the ocean for the first time in Punta Cana. At that point in my life, I had lived ACROSS an ocean for half a year. When I wonder why I don’t belong in my family, I look at my experiences. It is hard to view the world the same after the many experiences I have had. I am in awe of what the world has to offer and am so incredibly grateful that I have been able to go, do and see so many places and cultures. I don’t make the most money but somehow I make travel a priority.

And I think I am a better person because of it. When I get frustrated at small thinkers or those stuck in their ways, I need to remind myself that others do not have that desire or opportunity so their view of the world is limited and that is okay. I have a hard time though when those people think their way is the right and only way. This world needs more empathy and less closed mindedness.