Surprised, but I get it
The response to yesterday’s post was immensely heartwarming. The moral support that we have received, both from folks that we have met in person, or from those who frequent our website and social media pages (Facebook, Instagram), is almost overwhelming. It’s especially amazing since I have yet to share any of the practical details. One thing that did kind of surprise me yesterday was the large number of comments from people stating how my confession made them sad. It surprised me, but the truth is, I get it. In fact, I wrote how many times, when faced with similar circumstances, I have felt the same way!
Read what I wrote here: What scares me, and why!
In addition to what I wrote in that post, I can also see why those new to cruising, or those who are still in the planning stages, may be put off by my comments yesterday. They may see my confession to be more fuel to the fire of doubt, making them question even more their decision to do something crazy like selling all their stuff, buying a boat, and setting off cruising. To those people, I can simply say, relax. Our situation is particularly unique, as I’ll share when I am able to. But that aside, we have had close to seven years of amazing experiences on the water. Remember the quote from yesterday:
Nothing has to be forever to be worthwhile.
Of course, yesterday’s post no doubt has our one or two haters dancing a jig. Or perhaps, unbeknownst to us, there is an entire troupe of people dancing? Certain people seem to feel that someone else’s misfortune by comparison makes their situation seem better. I find that line of thinking strange, and sad actually, but tend not to concern myself with it.
In closing, thanks once again to all those who sent us messages of support. Your kindness is appreciated more than you can know. By the way, we especially appreciated the invitations that we received to come visit. People making those offers should be careful, we may just take them up on it!
Mike, As Melanie and I are researching boats and a sailing school to take some classes, I read that post and was even more inspired to sell everything and move aboard. Realizing it is an adventure until it is not eases some of our reservations about what if we get tired of it. Since meeting you along the ICW and following you since 2009 we have been inspired like many others you have touched by your post and thoughtful emails. Thank You for allowing us into a part of your world and providing honest information. We can’t wait to see the next step, Best wishes!
That’s very nice to hear that’s how you interpreted it. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Drew.
“People making those offers should be careful, we may just take them up on it!”
I’m not afraid of you! You guys are always welcome to stop by for a visit! Although, I don’t know that Southern Illinois is on your bucket list, I do grill an excellent steak. 😉
Ken
You know, I haven’t had a good steak in ages!!!
Landlubbers judge naught.
I would say that judging by anyone wrong, and especially ill-advised by those without any facts.
I’m sad on one hand, you guys have been a sort of touch stone to the Caribbean for me in the long months I’m not there. On the other hand I am excited to see what is next for you. And curious as to the ‘why’.
Thank you for many years of living vicariously through you!! xxxx
Thanks, Sandra. I hope we get to cross paths again!
Mike – your blog inspired me to expand my horizons and consider the possibilities. I don’t know if it’s in the cards for us to ever act on it because we’re caring for elderly parents. However we at least make sure to get out sailing as much as possible. And last year we realized our dream of exploring the BVI on a charter cat – thanks for recommending Nadiya! The crew spoke so highly of changed before our charter, but Colleen and Matt were great!
I look forward to seeing the next chapter of your life’s adventure and I hope that you continue to share your story with us as appropriate.
Hi Doug. I am so happy that your charter turned out great. I don’t know Colleen and Matt but most of the crews are professional, and work very hard to please their guests. Thank you for the support!
I have found your adventures to be both inspiring and entertaining and wish you all the adventures you desire; be they land or sea. Your story is part of what fueled the fire that led to my darling spouse and I to finally have ‘the conversation’ where we decided to downsize, unload and set off for our own adventure. Last year we took sailing courses, bought our first sailboat and set about getting some hands-on experience here in our home waters. The downsizing and unloading we have begun now that we have hit the months vs years marker for our own adventure. Do we anticipate being life-long cruisers? Most certainly not. Why? Because there are many more adventures we want to have that simply are not boat compatible. So we are entering into this expecting it to have an end. Will that be in months or years? We’ll know when it’s no longer fun (hmm, where have I heard that?) or when something else fuels that need for adventure far more than sailing does. Life is meant to be lived – do that where the living makes you happy!
Healthy attitude! Thanks for the comment, and the kind words. I wish you two the best for your cruising days, and whatever may lie beyond that.
I have tried to understand the logic of people who basically are waiting for you to “fail” so they can say “Ha, ha, I told you so!” Even members of my own family. Like a bully who beats up on the little guy so he can look tough. It’s easier to give up on your dream and blame someone else, I suppose.
I am sad for my cruising friends who become CLODS only because I will miss them. 😉
This is why you and I get along so well, becuase we think alike. You have a good heart!