Madison Messiah

I Have to Celebrate You Baby

Sitting in the optometrist’s chair the other day, the typical discussion ensued…”What brings you to Denver?” and whatnot. I decided to throw the brick just one more time, changing coordinates I ask, “Have you ever been abroad?” It took an instant for the question to settle in this locale, once the resting place of the adventurous pushing westward. The response was slow, preceded by a cocked head and narrowing of the eyes as if trying to gauge the messenger. It was the only response I needed. She expressed her regrets at not having done so, but the hopes that her 18 year-old son would pursue what lies beyond our borders.

The badge of the internationally traveled is one that requires no introduction. It is one that emanates from the words that spill from his mouth, the way he carries himself, and his willingness to help another in an unfamiliar situation. You can see it in the way he interacts with those of different surroundings. It often presents itself in a clarity of purpose and direction, intermingled with a distant struggle or confusion.

The depths to which the international experience penetrates the marrow have oft been alluded to, but the degree seldom understood.

posted by Burbs @ 5:31 PM