We are embarking on a truly “once in a lifetime” journey, an adventure where we will discover what we are made of, push our strengths, exploit our weaknesses, test our faith, develop our beliefs, and further understand our lives. The foundations for the trip span many subjects: adventure, friendship, spirituality, philosophy, entertainment, and love, to name but a few. The essence lies in what it truly means to live to the fullest. While the personal, specific reasons for wanting to embark on this trip are individually based, the inspiration lies in our desire and longing to experience the unknown, find adventure, become self-sufficient, live our dreams, and be fulfilled. In growing, we have begun to formulate our own answers to many of the fundamental questions that have perturbed and perplexed humanity since human beings were able to ask such questions. Why are we here? Why am I here? What, if any, is the meaning of life? What meaning will I create? By participating in this experience, we seek to evolve our answers to these questions. We have fears, concerns, and questions about the future of our culture, our country, humanity, and our world. By removing ourselves from our culture and society, by leaving the people we love and the lives we know, we may be able to view life from a truly different perspective and learn from it.
Before we continue any further, we must explain: we do mean to misuse these profound questions and lofty goals to prevaricate about the nature of our trip. Leaving our families, our friends, our jobs, our homes, and our country is hardly altruistic. Undoubtedly, it is a selfish act. While the achievement of the purposes we have set forth comes with personal sacrifice, the people we love bear a greater sacrifice. We are grateful to them for supporting us in spite of it. The love and labor of our families and friends, our education, financial security, and good health have made this dream possible. It seems to us undoubtedly true that our lives are a wondrous gift and are blessed. To our loved ones: we know you have fears, doubts, and concerns for our safety but please believe that this trip is a part of our learning to live great lives. We pray for your continued support and understanding, as you are as much a part of the trip as the boat and equipment that carries us. We are grateful for all of this and are in awe of this exceptional experience.
Though we know not what will transpire, we must do this. Beyond mere desire, we are impelled to achieve greater self-reliance, to experience new cultures, places, and people, and to fulfill this quest. Since its inception, this trip has had an enormous influence on our lives, as it beckons, motivates, and inspires us daily. This adventure simultaneously embodies who we are, creates us, and teaches us. While we believe this trip is crucial to our personal expression and growth, it is moreover beneficial to all those with whom we share this experience. Whether it is in living vicariously through our adventures, reveling in our triumphs, or learning from our mistakes, the value of this trip goes beyond the three of us. The process of making this dream into a reality began almost a year ago. The journey begins now.
