I’ve become convicted of the belief that life is based upon relationships. Of course, we know this in rudimentary terms, as it is human interaction that creates an evolutionary world. Though, I’ve come to look at human relationships as being something much deeper. After all, it is the loving relationship that we yearn for most. The deepest part of our “self” wants to be lovingly accepted by those we interact with. For it is such loving relationships that bring the greatest joys to our lives.
If we are of right mind, we will surely pursue such joys on a consistent basis. Everyday, we have the opportunity to deepen relationships or begin new ones. They can be basic or complex. They can be brief or lengthy. Whenever we interact with another person, we have the choice of whether to be authentic with that person. You might ask the supermarket clerk about her family or the janitor about his hobby. You might compliment your colleague on his work or ask your children about the emotions they felt during the day. These are the people in your life each day that you can draw closer to by simply being sincere. Were you thinking about this as you spoke to others today? I’m often not.
Upon accepting that life is founded on relationships, we must assess our lives to see if we are living out such a belief. We must become completely relationally minded. Our actions should be guided by our desire for loving relationships. If we wish to be loved, we must love. This law of nature must be adhered to.
As I personally began to reflect on these truths, I realized that an aspect of my life had drifted far from this thinking. The bulk of my day is presently spent working on business projects or meeting with businesspeople. My mind is inundated with thoughts about business. Rather ambitious, I envision lofty ideals and the creation of widespread impact based on altruism. As is the case, I have made these goals the center of my agenda. When I meet with people, my mind is set on how we can work together so as to achieve our goals.
I must reverse this thinking. I must begin to look at business and these goals as being a relational gateway to the greater purpose. That is, business must act as a tool that is a means to the end of forming loving relationships. Therefore, the true aim of business is to form authentically selfless relationships – not to achieve great things in the future. Though, I do believe that it is through such types of relationships that revolutionary change manifests!
Is your life guided by the desire to have sincere relationships? I hope that it is, and I encourage you to deepen this desire. Take an extra minute today and learn about the life of the janitor, store clerk, secretary, banker, child, boss, etc. I promise that you will be rewarded – as will they!
TS
December 4, 2008
November 3, 2008
Reflection of a Skull
Staring into the deadness of a human skull, I find myself falling into a deeply meditative state of reflection. My inner self seems to connect with the reality of this skull. The skull is completely dead; I am full of life. Yet, there is a human skull presently within me. The paradox only comes full circle as I clearly see the life that has been breathed into me. Soon, that reality will vanish.
A young Rwandan man once inhabited this skull. His life was seemingly cut short at the hands of Hutu rebels. He was slaughtered to death by machete in the 1994 genocide that claimed nearly 1,000,000 lives in a matter of 100 days. The breath of his life vanished without notice. Now, only his skull remains as a testament to his existence.
One day his skull will disintegrate, following the path that nature has carved. My skull will also follow this course. As I relate to these truths, I’m forced to realize the spectacular moment that is before me. It is the precise moment in which life has been breathed within my seemingly dead body. And I find myself wasting much of this precious time.
My mind runs rampant with ideas of how to create positive change and in search of exploration. I’m distracted from the deeper realm of reality and the temporal nature of my being. I ambitiously set out to “accomplish,” setting aside thoughts of the nature of my existence. Everyday, I tend to fail in connecting with these fundamentally important truths. I get carried away with what my mind deems to be “life.” Incredibly, I miss out on the simple truth that life is simply “breath.”
It is written in Genesis, “for dust you are and dust you will return.” These words speak to me strongly as I look into the lifelessness of the skull. I sense the dust that I am. Yet, I find a connection with the Divine – that which breathes life into me. This is the only basis for life.
I find myself called to live in stronger connection with the Divine by holding a heightened awareness of the breath of life within me. My mind’s scattered and convoluted thoughts must be set aside. The simplicity of life must always remain present within me each moment of my day.
Remember; your skull will soon lack the breath of life as well.
TS
A young Rwandan man once inhabited this skull. His life was seemingly cut short at the hands of Hutu rebels. He was slaughtered to death by machete in the 1994 genocide that claimed nearly 1,000,000 lives in a matter of 100 days. The breath of his life vanished without notice. Now, only his skull remains as a testament to his existence.One day his skull will disintegrate, following the path that nature has carved. My skull will also follow this course. As I relate to these truths, I’m forced to realize the spectacular moment that is before me. It is the precise moment in which life has been breathed within my seemingly dead body. And I find myself wasting much of this precious time.
My mind runs rampant with ideas of how to create positive change and in search of exploration. I’m distracted from the deeper realm of reality and the temporal nature of my being. I ambitiously set out to “accomplish,” setting aside thoughts of the nature of my existence. Everyday, I tend to fail in connecting with these fundamentally important truths. I get carried away with what my mind deems to be “life.” Incredibly, I miss out on the simple truth that life is simply “breath.”
It is written in Genesis, “for dust you are and dust you will return.” These words speak to me strongly as I look into the lifelessness of the skull. I sense the dust that I am. Yet, I find a connection with the Divine – that which breathes life into me. This is the only basis for life.
I find myself called to live in stronger connection with the Divine by holding a heightened awareness of the breath of life within me. My mind’s scattered and convoluted thoughts must be set aside. The simplicity of life must always remain present within me each moment of my day.
Remember; your skull will soon lack the breath of life as well.
TS
August 25, 2008
Uganda
It is a place I’ve never been. It is a place where I have only one personal friend. It is a place I rarely think of. Uganda will become my home in one week. I know only where I will stay my first several nights. I have no job nor do I know exactly what work I will seek. Though, a deep sense of spiritual peace resides within me as I prepare to make this move. Such peace also seems to be the source of the energy that drives me. In many ways, this is a step of faith as the order of unknowns does not cease. Yet, my adventurous spirit also intervenes and guides my steps.
My heart’s current calling urges me to learn business in the African context. The physical suffering on this continent holds an unprecedented stake in the world’s history of man’s failures. You know the statistics. You’ve seen the pictures. Africa needs change. I believe that such needed change is to come. Business will be the driving force. At a time like no other, Africa is poising to become the next “economic boom.”
I envision an Africa of opportunity. I envision the West investing money in entrepreneurial ventures throughout the continent. I envision economic development bringing prosperity, which may be defined as simply having three meals per day.
As this next step in my life has come clearly before me, the following step remains in complete darkness. I dream that through business I may bring prosperity to others. That is, I dream that prosperity of the heart will come forth within those that I interact with. By mutually sharing in the love that Jesus brought into this world, I rest confidentially that such spiritual prosperity will follow! And, just maybe, this love can be shared over three meals per day with all Africans. This is my dream!
TS
The Escape of Certainty
It was all but certain – I would live and work in Oklahoma for the near term. A six-month apartment lease was signed. A new car was in my mind’s order. The desire to establish a community of friends was pressing. Life would settle for the time being. Peace was within me. That was May 5th of this year.
It was that day in which I began a three-month stint of contract work for Dominion Farms. Owned by Calvin Burgess, Dominion Farms stems from the spiritual calling that this serial entrepreneur had as a young boy. His knack for business truly met his altruistic heart when he began this $25-million agribusiness project. Visit www.dominion-farms.com to gain further insight into the company.
Excitement loomed within me as I first stepped into the office and into the entrepreneurial role of developing a youth training center in West Kenya on the company’s property. Day by day, I was driven by the faces of the Kenyan youth I had encountered last September while there. They deserve hope, and that is what our effort is to bring them. Yet, slowly, I found myself being drained of energy. My body and mind were not thriving. Something needed to change.
As I finished the contract, I searched for what would be best for me to do next. I deliberated on staying in the States or going abroad. I inquired into the knowledge of others and asked for advice. Uncertainty became a rather close companion. In one month’s time, I knew not where I would be or what I would be doing. Though, I was content with this. “It is all part of the adventure,” I would tell myself.
TS
It was that day in which I began a three-month stint of contract work for Dominion Farms. Owned by Calvin Burgess, Dominion Farms stems from the spiritual calling that this serial entrepreneur had as a young boy. His knack for business truly met his altruistic heart when he began this $25-million agribusiness project. Visit www.dominion-farms.com to gain further insight into the company.
Excitement loomed within me as I first stepped into the office and into the entrepreneurial role of developing a youth training center in West Kenya on the company’s property. Day by day, I was driven by the faces of the Kenyan youth I had encountered last September while there. They deserve hope, and that is what our effort is to bring them. Yet, slowly, I found myself being drained of energy. My body and mind were not thriving. Something needed to change.
As I finished the contract, I searched for what would be best for me to do next. I deliberated on staying in the States or going abroad. I inquired into the knowledge of others and asked for advice. Uncertainty became a rather close companion. In one month’s time, I knew not where I would be or what I would be doing. Though, I was content with this. “It is all part of the adventure,” I would tell myself.
TS
May 3, 2008
The Next Corner
Journaled: 4.24.08
Astounding beauty? An extended pathway? Curiosity drives my step. The body is tired, but the mind is alive! All is new that is before my eyes. Soon, the next corner in this pathway will reveal itself as the moment turns.
I stand in rural Guatemala. Our destination is Semuc Champey. It is known that this place is of extraordinary beauty, yet our eyes have yet to see it. We know not what is around the next corner. Will it be Semuc Chamey? Or will our path continue? It is the former that drives us. In these moments, we are explorers. We thirst for adventure. And it satisfies. This is the quench that fuels us. Without it, our bodies would surely convince us that they hold no further energy. Instead, we push forth!
Corner after corner – more pathway. The forested mountains hold no pity on us. Glistening with perspiration, we trek onwards. The beauty must be near! Our minds assure us of this. Softly, flowing water can be heard. It soon sounds as rushing water. A spat of fresh energy eases our muscles. We must be close. The sound of a river strengthens. For a moment, there is a small glimpse before us. The excitement builds. Physical fatigue is now an afterthought. A new discovery is to be made!
In our lives daily, we must realize that we are always turning “the next corner.” Life holds a large element of exploration. Thus, it is the explorer that lives life to the fullest. This is the man that sees adventure in each step of his journey. Though, his mobility does not confine him. True exploration occurs in what most men consider life’s monotony. It is the man that can live through such circumstance as an explorer that attains true excellence. Fatigue holds less resolve over him than ordinary man. His curiosity drives him. There is a vibrancy that emanates from him.
I return to Oklahoma with a renewed desire to explore each moment as a new moment. This rudimentary logic seems to typically evade me. If such a mindset holds, I will surely maintain a heightened level of energy. This is the same curious energy that ignites your sense of adventure.
Are you living the life of an explorer in your daily life? I urge you to! Discover the nuances and intricacies of your day. Develop an unparallel curiosity about life and its many facets. Look for understanding and knowledge throughout life. Monotony of all sorts will soon fade. Life will begin to radiate!
April 30, 2008
Gunpoint!!!
Journaled: 4.26.08
Location: Guatemala City
Stepping to check the air of a tire, our minibus driver indicated a flat to the group of 13 foreign passengers. The seven-hour journey had already taken us through rugged terrain and unending switchbacks. Our legs were cramped, and our minds were tired as we were nearing the end of our arduous ride. If only we knew what was to come…
The driver hopped back into the extended van and guided it to a small, street-side repair shop. As cars zipped by on this main thoroughfare, we pulled in closer to the tire shop. The van parked along the side of the garage on the street, effectively blocking off the garage from outside world. Everyone inside the van stepped out into the small repair shop to wait for the change. Squeezing between the shop’s wall and the van, Dad and I headed down the street to the ATM at the gas station.
Gatorade and bottled water in hand, we returned to the repair shop expecting the tire to have nearly been changed. With the jack still lifting the van, I inched between it and the shop’s wall slowly, knowing that work was still to be completed. Peering around the corner and into the shop, I had a fleeting thought of ponder as to why everyone was standing together, focusing their attention on two men. I dismissed the thought with reason. Dad followed me in.
The man being watched quickly came towards me. Reaching down, he patted my shorts’ pockets, demanding “Dinero! Dinero!” He then threw up his other hand in demand. Its possession? A nine-millimeter handgun! Without hesitation, I gave him my iPod, hoping this would suffice. A Blackberry and $200 remained in my pockets and a $650 camera strapped my neck.
The gunman and his newly introduced armed accomplice weren’t satisfied. They demanded Dad to give them “dinero”! He took out his wallet; they took out the $250 from it. Turning back to me, the gunman called for my watch. It was quickly in his hands. We were then all told to huddle in the corner, which allowed the robbers to make a clean getaway.
This was a perfect robbery. We had no options. It was completely concealed. And it targeted “wealthy” tourists. The team effort included our driver and three car repairmen as accomplices. Thankfully, everyone in our group remained fairly calm and composed. As a result, violence was not needed.
Experiences like this are bound to happen every once in awhile if once spends considerable time in the third world as a tourist /backpacker. The key is to simply remain calm, realizing that these men are after money – not lives. While crimes such as this do occasionally occur, it is a mistake to be discouraged from traveling to such places. The rewards of Guatemala far outweigh the minimal potential of danger!
TSApril 4, 2008
Malaysian Surprise!
Crouched behind a three-foot cement wall, I waited for Tara to arrive at the ferry terminal in the port of Penang, Malaysia. Tender #1 arrived from the Semester at Sea ship - no Tara. Tender #2 arrived - no Tara. Tender #3 - no Tara. The excitement built for me as well as for her. Tara was excited to finally meet the Masnah family. I was excited because there was no Masnah family - only me.
Stepping off the small tender, Tara released a smile as her feet struck Malaysia. My binoculars revealed this to me. Realizing that I could potentially be seen, I was quick to reposition. Though, my feet did not follow my mind’s quickness. Catching the top of the wall as I jumped over, my left foot caused me to leverage my forehead straight into the pavement. The impact was full. My adrenaline inhibited any thoughts of pain as I knew that I must locate Tara.
She was not to be seen! I scoured the crowd – nothing. Surely her bright green backpack would stand out, I thought. Then, my eyes locked onto her. My video camera was rolling. The fun had begun! Slightly disoriented, Tara wandered amongst the strangers looking for the Masnah family and the “Tara Schooley” sign that they would be holding up.
Only an hour ago while on the ship, received a text message from me saying, “Sorry to hear that it isn’t going to work out anymore. Just got the email from Mrs. Masnah.” Tara dismissed the message as a joke, responding, “Ha. You’re full of it! Not funny. I’m about to get off the ship.”
Now, the concern on Tara’s face became evident. She began to see the validity of the message I’d sent her. As expected, Tara pulled out her cell phone in distress. I stood 30 feet from her, cell in hand, waiting for her call. Soon to vibrate, my phone acknowledged Tara’s angst.
Bewildered and frustrated, Tara demanded that I tell her what was going on. I plainly said, “Didn’t you get the email”? Tara responded hesitantly, “Nooo, what email”? I began to explain how the Masnah family had been forced to cancel on Tara because of the illness of one of their daughters. Tara’s anxiety grew. She insisted that I tell her if I was being honest. I slyly responded, “Well, didn’t your receive the email”? This peaked Tara’s anger! “ Tyler, you have to tell me the truth! I need to know. I’m in Malaysia”!
Walking directly to her as those words were sounding, I spoke loudly, “Tara, it just isn’t going to work out”! Shock struck its pose on Tara as she saw my face. A look of disbelief followed. Then, the tears of joy came. We embraced. The moment was special. Tara had deeply desired to see a loved one but knew that it was not going to work out. Overwhelmed by the fulfillment of this desire, Tara emotionally expressed her gratitude. This surprise par excellence was clearly worth all costs!
Preparing to leave the port, Tara asked, “So when are we going to meet up with the Masnah family”?
TS
Stepping off the small tender, Tara released a smile as her feet struck Malaysia. My binoculars revealed this to me. Realizing that I could potentially be seen, I was quick to reposition. Though, my feet did not follow my mind’s quickness. Catching the top of the wall as I jumped over, my left foot caused me to leverage my forehead straight into the pavement. The impact was full. My adrenaline inhibited any thoughts of pain as I knew that I must locate Tara.
She was not to be seen! I scoured the crowd – nothing. Surely her bright green backpack would stand out, I thought. Then, my eyes locked onto her. My video camera was rolling. The fun had begun! Slightly disoriented, Tara wandered amongst the strangers looking for the Masnah family and the “Tara Schooley” sign that they would be holding up.Only an hour ago while on the ship, received a text message from me saying, “Sorry to hear that it isn’t going to work out anymore. Just got the email from Mrs. Masnah.” Tara dismissed the message as a joke, responding, “Ha. You’re full of it! Not funny. I’m about to get off the ship.”
Now, the concern on Tara’s face became evident. She began to see the validity of the message I’d sent her. As expected, Tara pulled out her cell phone in distress. I stood 30 feet from her, cell in hand, waiting for her call. Soon to vibrate, my phone acknowledged Tara’s angst.
Bewildered and frustrated, Tara demanded that I tell her what was going on. I plainly said, “Didn’t you get the email”? Tara responded hesitantly, “Nooo, what email”? I began to explain how the Masnah family had been forced to cancel on Tara because of the illness of one of their daughters. Tara’s anxiety grew. She insisted that I tell her if I was being honest. I slyly responded, “Well, didn’t your receive the email”? This peaked Tara’s anger! “ Tyler, you have to tell me the truth! I need to know. I’m in Malaysia”!
Walking directly to her as those words were sounding, I spoke loudly, “Tara, it just isn’t going to work out”! Shock struck its pose on Tara as she saw my face. A look of disbelief followed. Then, the tears of joy came. We embraced. The moment was special. Tara had deeply desired to see a loved one but knew that it was not going to work out. Overwhelmed by the fulfillment of this desire, Tara emotionally expressed her gratitude. This surprise par excellence was clearly worth all costs!
Preparing to leave the port, Tara asked, “So when are we going to meet up with the Masnah family”?
TS
February 13, 2008
Unending Adventure!
We all live a story. The real question is whether you live a story of adventure. It is this that makes life exciting. This is the life many aspire for at their heart’s depth but few live out. The irony is that very little aspiration is needed to live such a life. It is a matter of perspective and living adventurously today. In fact, you can choose this path of energy and excitement right now!
Let me warn you, though. There are risks. Indeed, it is such risks that make the path adventurous. You must be willing to put a lot on the line. Remember, your rewards will come. First, one’s daily monotony must be broken. Two approaches can be taken: (1) change the lens that you are using to judge the day or (2) change the day. Both used together is optimal.
Begin by realizing that life is not monotonous. It is your mind that creates such. Life is always changing in nearly all facets. We simply miss most of this. We place a level of relativity on these changes, causing us to minimize and ignore many of them. Change must come to this way of thinking! Wonderful things are happening each day that slip directly past our awareness.
You could marvel at the fact that you have put your thoughts into words on the computer screen in front of you. Imagine for a moment at how intricately amazing this process is! You could actually think about how much you enjoy crunching on the ice in your cup during the hour after lunch. Maybe a coworker made you feel good. Take note and go make someone else feel good. After all, our interaction with others is the basis of living a truly adventurous life. These are the first steps to bringing advantageous change to your life.
If you are seeking deep-seated adventure, though, you will go further. You will take risks. You will sacrifice comfort for challenge. You will desire to grow. You will be in search of that which is Greater. Your energy will attract. You will be willing to lose it all, realizing that you really have nothing to lose. There will be something different about you. You will have chosen a unique path.
While seeing the day through a different set of lens, you will also bring change to the day. The “normal” will be shaken as a drop of the “abnormal” will be an added ingredient. Always, you will be looking for opportunities to bring change. One can be radical or mild in such actions. It is the former that creates greatest intrigue.
Send a colleague an unexpected note of reverence. Ask the beautiful girl on a date even though you sure she’ll say “no.” Spend a night with bums. Sleep where they sleep. Eat what they eat. Plainly, call out your boss for his lack of ethics if such a situation involves you. Become a vegetarian for a month. Put the shoe on first that you usually put on last for the next week. Wear clashing colors for a week. Stop and buy lemonade from the young girls. Stay and talk to them. Walk at half speed for a day. Don’t chew your ice – just let it melt in your mouth. Talk to random people around the world on Skype. Clearly, the list can go on and on. Create your own!
You must train your mind to see the world in a slightly different way. In many ways, your mind must think in terms of opposites. It must challenge its tendency for comfort and bring new experiences. You must always be alert and in search of ways you can look at something differently or shake it up.
Begin by changing your perspective and proceed forth as you desire. The life of adventure awaits you!
TS
January 30, 2008
Boca del Rio
Journaled on January 29th
Where am I? I mean, really. It seems that a hurricane must surely be coming! This town is deserted. A beachside getaway, Boca del Rio boasts itself as the best coastal retreat in southern Peru. It ho
sts swarms of local Peruvians on the weekends, bringing a liveliness to it. Though, it becomes a ghost town during the weekdays. Today is Tuesday. Hence, it feels like a ghost town. The climate and topography only add to this. Boca is in the fringe driest desert of the world - the Atacama. Massive sand dunes provide its eastern backdrop. I'm very pleased to be here. The beaches are beautiful, and the aura is tranquil.
sts swarms of local Peruvians on the weekends, bringing a liveliness to it. Though, it becomes a ghost town during the weekdays. Today is Tuesday. Hence, it feels like a ghost town. The climate and topography only add to this. Boca is in the fringe driest desert of the world - the Atacama. Massive sand dunes provide its eastern backdrop. I'm very pleased to be here. The beaches are beautiful, and the aura is tranquil. - Tyler
A Bad Decision in Chile!
Journaled on January 28th
The police were called. My decision seemed to be of the unwise.
Standing on a large bluff, a Christ statue watches over Arica and the Pacific Ocean. This 500-foot-high bluff serves as a separation between the city and the nearby beaches. My hotel was along the beach. A taxi ride around the ascending rock was required to enter the city. Mostly, its composure was 
of rock and sand. On the beachside, there are vertical drops as well as some areas suitable for hiking down. Though, one must have agility to do this. The cityside contians a path that leads to the Christ.
of rock and sand. On the beachside, there are vertical drops as well as some areas suitable for hiking down. Though, one must have agility to do this. The cityside contians a path that leads to the Christ. Earlier in the day, I'd walked around the bluff to arrive at the city. Returning, I decided that I'd make the route direct, going up and over the bluff. Easy task, right? First, I was forced to take a different path on the cityside as a policeman was prohibiting entrance on the primary walkway for some reason. I found that Carnaval fireworks were being setup, which gave reason for the policeman's stance. The views were spectacular as I looked out over the city, the port, the beaches, and the Pacific! Preparing for the descent, I searched for a possible path. Weaving back and forth, I was able to make it down. The last 60 feet were awesome as my feet sank deeply into the slightly damp sand. Leaping and turning my ankles, I made sharp zig-zag cuts in the soft sand as I skied down.
As I gazed upward at my feat, I noticed a steel gate about 200 feet above my current stance. It was blocking the entrance into a cliffside tunnel. Though, the rusted gated looked to be ajar. My curiousity began to poke me as I scouted the terrain separating me from this entrance into the unkown. This would be a steep climb amongst rocks and up a sandy surface. My foot stepped ahead of me, and I began my climb! After a short five minutes, I realized the difficulty that was before me in actuality. I gripped loose rock after loose rock until finally finding a firm one. Even large rocks were not immune to being loose. All found their rooting in the sand. Often, small rockslides would begin beneath me when rocks would fail to pass my test. A fury of dust followed!
My climb continued as I was nearing the gate. Scouring, my hands yearned for a firm grip from above. None could be found. I was only able to move horizontally or downward. Turning my body so as to sit on a firm rock, I looked out at the Pacific and contemplated my next move. I then saw that four people below created my audience. This immediately arose second thoughts in my mind. I sat in contemplation for the next five minutes. A climb of only 
60 feet would satisfy my intrigue and allow access into the mysterious tunnel. But the danger was increasing.
60 feet would satisfy my intrigue and allow access into the mysterious tunnel. But the danger was increasing. Contrary to my desire, I aborted the discovery. The descent down would not be easy. With several onlookers still peering at my every move, I slowly tested several rocks with the tips of my toes. Most were loose. Tediously, though, I began to find my way down. Forty feet remained.
Speeding down the road, two motorbikes headed in my direction. They stopped. The uniformed drivers stared at me. Quickly, they hopped off the road onto the sand and to the base of my descent. My first congratulators had arrived; they were policemen. As Chile is a relatively civilized country, I was reminded that I had forgotten to rid myself of the "third-world mentality" when I crossed over from impoverished Bolivia. Making my way down to the police, I still had to hold focus. In a flash, my hand pulled a loose rock out of place! It barrelled down, striking my left shin. Its signature was blood. The damage was minimal.
"Hola! Lo es un malo idea. ¿No?," I spoke loudly. They nodded in agreement that the idea was a "bad one." Continuing, I said, "Yo hablo poco espanol," figuring that this would further my naivé platform, which was quite accurate. Pulling out his English phrasebook, the policeman pointed to the word "identification." This was surely not leading in a good direction - I thought. In response, I indicated that it was back at the hotel room. Further, I began to ask why no signs indicated the danger that was before us. They shrugged without answer, only commenting on how people have died on that cliffside. I returned the shrug.
Kindly, the policemen said that they would watch me walk back to the hotel so as to make sure that there would be no second attempt. Trust me, their eyes made no difference on my motivation. There was no way that I'd make another attempt! It had become fact to me that this was an initial bad decision.
- Tyler
Sickness...
Journaled on January 26th
I feel weird. Definitely, I'm sick, but it is a different sickness. Illness has pulled me down. I suspect it started with general altitude sickness, which fatigued my body. Without the energy to fight, my body was likely overcome by some form of bacteria. For the past ten days, I've been tired, excluding the three days I spent in the jungle. The lower elevation undoubtedly strengthened me. Returning to La Paz, I found myself slowing after just two days. I then went to Oruro, Bolivia on my way to Uyuni. My planned one night in Oruro quickly turned into three nights. Sickness will do that.
My health soon became of concern to me. Figuring that oxygen would help, I walked to the hospital and into the emergency room. Surely, they would have oxygen on hand. As two oxygen tubes straddled my nose, I relaxed and accepted the ease of breathing for 30 minutes. I paid my due of $1.25 and headed back to my chilly hotel. Only blankets would provide the warmth. The evening that followed was a long one of illness. All liquids and food left my body in all ways. Not even water would remain inside me. My concern for my health grew. This was a sickness that I had not experienced before, and it was happening as I was alone in the second poorest country in South America! Not good.
That night, I was able to sleep and awoke feeling fairly rested. Several meds were now in my body, and I felt that they had slightly helped to strengthen me. Mom connected with a fellow Rotarian per email, and he soon called me. Kindly, he took me to a doctor that is also part of his Rotary club. The day was spent resting, receiving new prescriptions, and inhaling more oxygen. I upgraded to the nicest hotel in Oruro in an effort to recover - a cost of $25. My sickness made a quasi return that evening. Though, again, I awoke rested.
The next day had me on an eight-hour bus ride to Arica, Chile. I would surely recover there while absorbing the sun of the Pacific Coast!
- Tyler
I feel weird. Definitely, I'm sick, but it is a different sickness. Illness has pulled me down. I suspect it started with general altitude sickness, which fatigued my body. Without the energy to fight, my body was likely overcome by some form of bacteria. For the past ten days, I've been tired, excluding the three days I spent in the jungle. The lower elevation undoubtedly strengthened me. Returning to La Paz, I found myself slowing after just two days. I then went to Oruro, Bolivia on my way to Uyuni. My planned one night in Oruro quickly turned into three nights. Sickness will do that.
My health soon became of concern to me. Figuring that oxygen would help, I walked to the hospital and into the emergency room. Surely, they would have oxygen on hand. As two oxygen tubes straddled my nose, I relaxed and accepted the ease of breathing for 30 minutes. I paid my due of $1.25 and headed back to my chilly hotel. Only blankets would provide the warmth. The evening that followed was a long one of illness. All liquids and food left my body in all ways. Not even water would remain inside me. My concern for my health grew. This was a sickness that I had not experienced before, and it was happening as I was alone in the second poorest country in South America! Not good.
That night, I was able to sleep and awoke feeling fairly rested. Several meds were now in my body, and I felt that they had slightly helped to strengthen me. Mom connected with a fellow Rotarian per email, and he soon called me. Kindly, he took me to a doctor that is also part of his Rotary club. The day was spent resting, receiving new prescriptions, and inhaling more oxygen. I upgraded to the nicest hotel in Oruro in an effort to recover - a cost of $25. My sickness made a quasi return that evening. Though, again, I awoke rested.
The next day had me on an eight-hour bus ride to Arica, Chile. I would surely recover there while absorbing the sun of the Pacific Coast!
- Tyler
Failure in the Bolivian Jungle
Journaled on January 20th
Crap. Tyler "the adventurer" made a bad move. I'm stuck and have few options. Walking the town for hours, I searched for anyone that might be able to give me guidance. Apparently, no such person exists. Next, I went to the office of the "Captania" to inquire about what boats from Guayaramerin would be setting sail. I needed to get to Trinidad. Turns out that one boat would be leaving for Trinidad at 6:00 p.m. that evening. This would be a six-day passing. I considered the possibility.
Before jumping to a decision, though, I wanted to check on flight availability. None. Flights were full until the 25th. The boat became my primary option. Returning to it, I hopped onto its deck and assessed the conditions that I'd be subjected unto. Not good. "Bilbito" would not be hosting me on this arduous journey - I decided. Only one other option remained. With my backpack stuffed, I squezzed into a "camino" with four other sweaty Bolivians, and we drove to Riberalta.
Four times larger than Guayaramerin, the city of Riberalta also entertains with a smell that is four times as pungent! Arriving early in the evening, I went directly to the office of Amazonas Airlines. Literally, the employee was closing the storefront as I pulled up. We looked at all flight possibilities; she told me that I could catch a flight to Trinidad in two days. "Sold!"
Aiming to get on a flight the next day, I went to the small airport and asked to be on standby. To my appeasement, this worked and I somehow ended up in Lima that evening. My adventure into the Amazon was a disappointment yet an adventure in its own right! I hold no regrets.
- Tyler
Crap. Tyler "the adventurer" made a bad move. I'm stuck and have few options. Walking the town for hours, I searched for anyone that might be able to give me guidance. Apparently, no such person exists. Next, I went to the office of the "Captania" to inquire about what boats from Guayaramerin would be setting sail. I needed to get to Trinidad. Turns out that one boat would be leaving for Trinidad at 6:00 p.m. that evening. This would be a six-day passing. I considered the possibility.
Before jumping to a decision, though, I wanted to check on flight availability. None. Flights were full until the 25th. The boat became my primary option. Returning to it, I hopped onto its deck and assessed the conditions that I'd be subjected unto. Not good. "Bilbito" would not be hosting me on this arduous journey - I decided. Only one other option remained. With my backpack stuffed, I squezzed into a "camino" with four other sweaty Bolivians, and we drove to Riberalta.
Four times larger than Guayaramerin, the city of Riberalta also entertains with a smell that is four times as pungent! Arriving early in the evening, I went directly to the office of Amazonas Airlines. Literally, the employee was closing the storefront as I pulled up. We looked at all flight possibilities; she told me that I could catch a flight to Trinidad in two days. "Sold!"
Aiming to get on a flight the next day, I went to the small airport and asked to be on standby. To my appeasement, this worked and I somehow ended up in Lima that evening. My adventure into the Amazon was a disappointment yet an adventure in its own right! I hold no regrets.
- Tyler
Venturing into the Bolivian Jungle
Journaled on January 18th
I am an adventurer. Landing on dirt in the 20-passenger, turbo-prop plane, I had arrived in Guayaramerin, Bolivia (pop. 14,000). As I approached the only "gringos" in the "terminal," I amazed at the large crowd present at this airport waiting area that resembled
a city park - complete with kids running around in the surrounding grassy fields. Beginning to ask questions, I tapped into the couple's thoughts about the town that I had just arrived in. Both were hardcore, granola-type backpackers. The girl was quick to say, "You won't be seeing any other foreigners here during your stay." I commented that I was looking exactly for such. Tomorrow, I will go in search of a guide. I will also discover the possibility of taking a cargo boat to Trinidad. The journey is supposedly four days in length. This would likely be an intensely uncomfortable time but, hopefully, worth the growth and the ensuing story!
- Tyler
I am an adventurer. Landing on dirt in the 20-passenger, turbo-prop plane, I had arrived in Guayaramerin, Bolivia (pop. 14,000). As I approached the only "gringos" in the "terminal," I amazed at the large crowd present at this airport waiting area that resembled
a city park - complete with kids running around in the surrounding grassy fields. Beginning to ask questions, I tapped into the couple's thoughts about the town that I had just arrived in. Both were hardcore, granola-type backpackers. The girl was quick to say, "You won't be seeing any other foreigners here during your stay." I commented that I was looking exactly for such. Tomorrow, I will go in search of a guide. I will also discover the possibility of taking a cargo boat to Trinidad. The journey is supposedly four days in length. This would likely be an intensely uncomfortable time but, hopefully, worth the growth and the ensuing story!- Tyler
January 17, 2008
Machu Picchu
Crowing loudly, the rooster alerted us that we must force ourselves to arise. It was 4:45 a.m. This brought the second consecutive pre-dawn morning for me. Having bonded over our life-endangering bus ride the previous morning, Niall, Martin, Ben, and Nadia also rolled out of bed to prepare for the coming day. We were off to see one of earth’s greatest man-made spectacles – Machu Picchu!
Arriving to the bus pickup location in Aguas Calientes, we were met by nearly 30 other eager, restless souls. We would be one of the first to see this wonder of the world on this day. After the one-hour ride, we slowly walked to the entrance and into the mystical setting that the Andes Mountains portrayed. As the sun had yet to show itself, several clouds crept around us in the presence of the low light. Climbing step after step, my breath was running thinner, but my anticipation was building faster.
Turning around, I became overwhelmed. Machu Picchu was before me! A surreal moment followed. Such an awe-inspiring feeling within me has been brought forth in my life very few times. Set amongst a lush and dramatic topography, these Incan ruins are simply a remarkable marvel that brings inspiration. The ability to build such a remote site in the mid 1400s is incredible alone. The intricate design and the setting in which it was built is what draws forth feelings of amazement.
We spent the full day discovering
If you have the opportunity, I strongly encourage you to travel to
- Tyler
January 8, 2008
Peligroso on the Peruvian Bus!
This morning, I went on an insane bus ride to Aguas Calientes, which is the gateway city to Machu Picchu here in Peru. Danger confronted us in an intense manner. The only way to get to Aguas Calientes is by train, which is a ridiculous $100 roundtrip.
However, there is one slight backway I discovered. It required going to the desolete town of Santa Maria (arrived at 11:30pm last night) and then boarding another bus to Santa Teresa (left at 4:00am this morning). The small town was deserted, but there was thankfully one hostel. Its several tents were full. The owner gave me his bed though, which was the bottom of a bunkbed. He slept on top bunk and alongside his cook. And, he didn't charge me for the short night!
After sleeping three hours, I boarded the 4:00am bus. We drove for about 40 mins only to stop in the middle of the dirt road in near darkness. The little light that did exist revealed a dropoff only feet from the edge of the road that was likely over 700 feet. The sound of a rushing river came from that depth. Turns out a mudslide had blocked the road and we could not go on. So, we started going back down the mountain in reverse! (Remember it is incredibly dark outside and the cliff is only feet from our outside tires.)
The bus then comes to a stop as the driver begins to turn the wheels hard. Quickly, we realize that he is going to try to do a 3-point turnaround (more like a 7 -point). There was no way. Literally perpendicular to the road, our back tires were teetering on the edge of the cliff. Another two feet, and we were sure to soar down the mountain side. Shrieks of fear from the back seats of the bus ringed. Unbelievably, we did turn around and backtracked.
There was another route that we would take. We suspected it would take longer and be more challenging. It was. On several occassions, we passed by mudslides that covered the road. One time, there was a bulldozer pushing mud and rock onto the rushing water covering the road. We were the first to attempt the cross after his work was finished. Again, we somehow passed it. Throughout this bus journey, varying levels of fog persisted. After all, we were high in the andes mountains.
This is the essence of adventure - and danger. I've only had a few very dangerous situations in my life. This ranks as one of them. My probability of dying was definitely much higher during this ride than at nearly all other times of my life. And, it was for a good four hours!
Haha! Life is good. As long as I go out living with passion and in pursuit of stronger spiritual conviction, I'm content. Whenever that is, I hope that the drive for passion will continue to live on in those I've spent time with. Though, I also hope that I can be with a lot more people for many more years to come!
- Tyler
However, there is one slight backway I discovered. It required going to the desolete town of Santa Maria (arrived at 11:30pm last night) and then boarding another bus to Santa Teresa (left at 4:00am this morning). The small town was deserted, but there was thankfully one hostel. Its several tents were full. The owner gave me his bed though, which was the bottom of a bunkbed. He slept on top bunk and alongside his cook. And, he didn't charge me for the short night!
After sleeping three hours, I boarded the 4:00am bus. We drove for about 40 mins only to stop in the middle of the dirt road in near darkness. The little light that did exist revealed a dropoff only feet from the edge of the road that was likely over 700 feet. The sound of a rushing river came from that depth. Turns out a mudslide had blocked the road and we could not go on. So, we started going back down the mountain in reverse! (Remember it is incredibly dark outside and the cliff is only feet from our outside tires.)
The bus then comes to a stop as the driver begins to turn the wheels hard. Quickly, we realize that he is going to try to do a 3-point turnaround (more like a 7 -point). There was no way. Literally perpendicular to the road, our back tires were teetering on the edge of the cliff. Another two feet, and we were sure to soar down the mountain side. Shrieks of fear from the back seats of the bus ringed. Unbelievably, we did turn around and backtracked.
There was another route that we would take. We suspected it would take longer and be more challenging. It was. On several occassions, we passed by mudslides that covered the road. One time, there was a bulldozer pushing mud and rock onto the rushing water covering the road. We were the first to attempt the cross after his work was finished. Again, we somehow passed it. Throughout this bus journey, varying levels of fog persisted. After all, we were high in the andes mountains.
This is the essence of adventure - and danger. I've only had a few very dangerous situations in my life. This ranks as one of them. My probability of dying was definitely much higher during this ride than at nearly all other times of my life. And, it was for a good four hours!
Haha! Life is good. As long as I go out living with passion and in pursuit of stronger spiritual conviction, I'm content. Whenever that is, I hope that the drive for passion will continue to live on in those I've spent time with. Though, I also hope that I can be with a lot more people for many more years to come!
- Tyler
January 1, 2008
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