July 30, 2004
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Topic: 2nd book
I’m already brainstorming an idea for book #2, “The hitchiking author.” Sorry family, but i’m hoping to do something like hitchiking, or at least just hopping in a car and driving all around america trying to sell my book. I really need to do something new that scares me. Not having a real job doesn’t scare me. Not having any real assets doesn’t scare me. Going out w/out a plan is the one thing that makes me a bit nervous, and that’s why i really want to give that a go.
I’ve found someone here at camp who is even inspiring to me. From Israel, my friend spent a year on a kibbutz, which he describes as the ultimate freedom, followed by 3 miserable years in the army. His spirtual vision for the world, as he describes it, is just to do good. He’s into education, the environment, and is studying philosophy, which he enjoys especially because there is nothing material to be gained from studying philosophy. it’s only purpose for him is to help develop his good virtues. anyways…this guy is more secure without material possessions than me, more open to risk taking than me, more experienced to things like hitching, and exposed to radical people in both lifestyle and political views. Being around this person has made me realize that there is still much more than i can do, and that i really need to work this year on finding a community of people who will continue to push my thoughts and actions in a positive direction.
As for camp, today went hiking with my kids, ran a wrestling hobby, played dodgeball, had California night as an evening program where people dressed like surfers, had tiki torches everywhere, ice cream and sorbet, played night beach volleyball, just a really good time, followed by the last 2 hours of listening to the Beatles and having some good discussions about life. 2 more weeks now of camp…my one post-camp plan:
Austin City Limits, Sept 17-19, 3 days, 180 bands, including Ben Harper, Jack Johnson, the Roots, Trey Anastasio from Phish, Sheryl Crow, Elvis Costello, Dashboard Confessional, and about 170 other bands i’ve never heard of, plus, it’s in Texas!!!
-Dan
Comments (2)
okay – i didn’t really read that, i’ll get back to it later. one comment – do NOT hitchhike in this country. you don’t live in Ireland (the safest country in which to hitchhike). I have no problem with you taking a car and travelling, but if you insist on throwing up that thumb, i’ll personally maul you.
back to the thesis!
actually dan, this country is really unsafe for hitchhiking. i would have no problem with hitchhiking elsewhere, but the US is not so good to their travellers. so that’s why i worry. i don’t give a shit if you skydive every day for the next year – you can fucking use it as your method of transport. but hitchhiking just isn’t safe. there’s a difference between doing something crazy, and doing something stupid!!!