"The World is a Book and Those Who Do Not Travel Read Only One Page"

I was walking through one of the buildings on campus tonight on my way to my car. There were two people walking in front of me - a guy and a girl. I missed the first part of their conversation, but caught ear to a very disturbing statement by the girl. She said "I like American history, but world history or European history I could care less about. I live in America, I love America, that's all I need to worry about."

My entire twenty minute drive home consisted of thoughts circling that statement over and over. How sad to think that way. I considered what that girl's day to day life involved. I figure she must be the type of girl who stares at the piece of sidewalk in front of her as she walks instead of keeping her chin up to take in all that is around her. I figure she must be the type of girl who doesn't consider the consequences of her actions upon others. I decided she probably couldn't hold a decent conversation with people unlike herself, because she would have no talking points. She wouldn't have paid enough attention to areas of life that do not directly pertain to hers. 

The United States, while a separate country, does not stand alone. It was not created in isolation from other countries. It did not grow into the country it is today without its opposition from outside forces. It has not always gone into battle on its own. We rely heavily on the protection of our alliances. International relationships are a very large part of this country, this country she claims to "love."

I will not pretend to sit here and say that I pay attention to all the world politics or know the premises of all the wars we have been involved in. I can't even say I know the facts surrounding our current state of warfare. But I can say that I will never have the nerve to even think that these things don't matter to me our my country. Yesterday's history, today's history-in-the-making...it's all important. 

I suppose it's great that people can live so securely; that they are not the least bit concerned about international allies and vengeance. But to be so naive to make a statement such as hers, that I do not envy. 

I leave you with this last thought: 

"Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness."

If you get the chance to travel, to learn other cultures, to expand your horizons...jump! If you stumble across the opportunity to embrace a bit of history...hold it dear! If you find that you are staring at that piece of concrete at your feet and missing out on life swirling madly around you...make a change!

I am more excited than ever, now, for my trip to London this summer. With the urge to never live life like this poor girl I encountered today, I am promising myself to make the most of my time abroad. We will be given some truly amazing opportunities to soak in the history of the United Kingdom with guides and tours and pure experiences. I can't wait to concern myself with some "world history."