Day 9: Being Humble in a Friend's Garage
from Omaha to Des Moines
Today is the ninth day of my cross-country trip. After the long drive yesterday, we took a short drive from Omaha to Des Moines so that we can visit an old friend of my wife, FZ. This visit turned out to be a highlight, offering a profound insight into a life of adaptability, entrepreneurship, and relentless adventure.
FZ came to the United States in the early 1990s. After earning his master, he initially worked as a research scientist. However, his scientific career took an unexpected turn when he accepted an opportunity to become a global company representative in Asia. This role ignited his entrepreneurial spirit and led to a unique business venture in Shanghai in the early 2000s. His success in this endeavor allowed him to semi-retire while still enjoying profit-sharing benefits. This financial stability opened up many opportunities for him and his family to live a life of exploration and adventure.
They decide to travel the world in a customized travel van!
FZ told us vividly about their travels to the far ends of northern Canada and Alaska in a matter of months. They embraced the wild life, immersing themselves in nature in ways few people even dream of. Their adventures included swimming in the North Pole and hiking rugged mountain trails with no trails at all. We were amazed at their level of daring and appreciation for nature.
What struck me most was his current project for planning the next trip in five years: dismantling and completely rebuilding his already functional travel van in his garage! His meticulous attention to detail was evident as he described the upgrades he was making himself. These included replacing the gas stove with an electric one, installing a completely new shower system, and redesigning the bed and kitchen. The most significant upgrade was a custom water system with five unique connections to support clean water, waste water, hot water, and more. This system was designed to make the van completely self-sufficient in remote areas, ensuring that they could continue their adventures without relying on outside resources.
I was humbled by his dedication to this project and his ability to survive in the harshest of environments in the past. Although I considered myself a trailblazer, I realized that true trailblazing requires more than planning and forging your own path in action. It requires a willingness to take risks.
Their story is not just about travel, but about living life to the fullest, pushing boundaries, and finding joy in the most challenging experiences. It shows the power of adaptability and the rewards of stepping outside your comfort zone.
So behind the success of everyone , there is a garage ! I also want to do what you are doing now but I may need to wait for 3 years . Enjoy the travel