These past few months I’ve been consumed by the details in preparing for this upcoming journey. So much too think about, both in regards to our day to day needs and logistics as well as the pre-production details for our documentary. I needed to book hotels for 99 nights, make airline reservations with over 14 different airlines from puddle jumpers in Nepal to trans Pacific flights, book train tickets in India, secure cure visas, get vaccinations and of course think about any personal needs. We’ve had to schedule all our subjects and research, buy and test all of our gear.
It’s been a challenge because we are doing it on a shoestring so to speak, using airline miles, hotel points, bartering services and roughing it – but I love a challenge. But when I sit down and collect my thoughts at the end of the day, I think about how fortunate I am to be able to take on such a project and how thankful I am to all of you who have been supportive and made it possible. Thanks to everyone for all your help and support.
I’m continually amazed at the power and reach of electronic communications. Orchestrating something like this just 10 years ago would have extremely difficult and time consuming as far as dealing with the logistics. But it also would not have been possible to “share” the experience virally and globally. We’ve been able to network with people around the world. People have been telling us about individuals who they know who are making a difference in the world – and in turn we are making others aware of people like this and the power of the individual. We hear from people all the time who are inspired by what they can do to make a difference.
Soon my daughter and I will be leaving the US for three months. Whenever I leave the country, I feel it is my opportunity to be an emissary for our country. It’s my opportunity when I meet people from other countries and cultures to show them what an American is – beyond the celebrity, pop culture and politics. I’ve always been conscious of my role as a diplomat when I travel overseas and the example that I set for my daughter in this regard. I think when Americans travel overseas we all have the opportunity to bring a more balanced perspective of what America is – beyond “TV network” point of view.
As the days dwindle down till our departure next Tuesday – my mind drifts from trepidation to glorious anticipation. But one thing is constant and that is that I feel extremely fortunate to be making this incredible opportunity and I thank all of you for giving me the support and confidence that I need.
