No matter where you are in the world, it is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore the cesspit of filth currently masquerading as a presidential election in the US. It is downright depressing to be bombarded daily with examples of how low mankind can sink, and frankly bewildering that such a base, unevolved, malignant individual has been allowed access to a world stage from which to disseminate and normalize his poisonous views. I have of late found myself drifting towards cynicism of humanity at large, guilty by association by simply belonging to a species capable of producing such monsters. To counteract this bleakness, I have resolved to actively seek out all that is enlightened, noble and beautiful about being human – and that’s what this week’s travel theme is about. I hope you’ll join me in celebrating the joy of the human condition, and where better to start than with: Dance – a secret tango in Seattle.
Friendship – two dads building sandcastles for their kids at Tramore in Ireland.
Wonder – a winter carousel in Waterford.
Compassion – furry friends’ final resting place at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah.
Freedom of expression – at the Figment Festival on Governors Island.
Laughter – bright colours and even brighter smiles celebrating Holi.
Play – traditional May Day celebrations.
Teamwork – a tug o’ war at the Sheep Olympics.
Art – Michelangelo’s Pieta in Vatican City.
Dignity – on the mural trail in Philly.
Resilience – hard work in Guatemala.
Love. At Lincoln Center.
Love. Swinging in Charleston.
Love. About to kiss in Rome.
Love. A father holds his son’s hand in a deserted Grand Central Terminal.
Love.
Love.
Love.
Love.
Love.
That is how you make a nation great.
There is so much that is noble, brave, generous, gentle and wise about the human spirit, so join me in shining a light on it by creating your interpretation of this week’s theme. If you would like to join in (everyone’s welcome!) here’s what to do:
- Create your own post and title it Travel theme: Enlightened
- Include a link to this page in your post so others can find it too
- Get your post in by next Thursday, as the new travel theme comes out on Friday
- Don’t forget to subscribe to keep up to date on the latest weekly travel themes. Sign up via the email subscription link in the sidebar or RSS.
I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling a lot better now.
xxx Ailsa
The true grandeur of humanity is in moral elevation, sustained, enlightened and decorated by the intellect of man. – Charles Sumner
There will never be a really free and enlightened State until the State comes to recognize the individual as a higher and independent power, from which all its own power and authority are derived, and treats him accordingly. – Henry David Thoreau
Where's my backpack? 