Perfect travel & Online negativity

Perfect travel

As I walked through the streets of Gondar, Ethiopia, the ancient capital for centuries, I had a great sense of joy.

What was different about today?

I was in a city, but not a major capital city - one that had character and was without the permanent presence of foreigners.

A place of history, things to do and see.

Stunning natural beauty nearby.

The culture was totally unlike my own, the language incomprehensible, and yet the people were friendly and curious.

I walked alone - unburdened by the energy required to engage with a guide. Left to let my thoughts wander without interruption.

One might think that I’ve got everything figured out about travel.

Far from it.

I continue to learn about myself, my culture, other people, their cultures, and humanity at large.

What a privilege.

Online negativity

One particular video I posted drew an onslaught of negative comments.

They were miraculous in their range of idiocy and attack.

Colonizer. Bald. Entitled American. Racist. Creep. Weirdo.

I shouldn’t be there, I disrespected the culture, I should go home, and on, and on…

I’m not one to shy away from constructive feedback. But these were not that.

How can so many people live so low? A world where you comment uneducated, nuance devoid, hate filled remarks on a video that a real person made.

Send a direct message with your thoughts? Comment in a respectful manner?

No.

At my core, I feel for these people. We all only get one life, and they’re living theirs in a deplorable manner.

The polarity of good and evil in the world is something I’ve gained greater awareness of.

Human existence is truly unfathomable.

Sincerely,

Jacob

P.S. No word yet on the rocks. The fight continues!