Instafriends
The McVansion is an awesome-people magnet. (Or perhaps, we simply find ourselves in places where kindred spirits congregate.) At any trailhead, roadside park, or scenic overlook, it's only a matter of time before we notice someone tentatively walking by and politely requesting, "do you mind if I check out your van?"
Usually, the stranger has spent time living in a van or RV at some point in their lives, or has been dreaming of doing this someday, or heard that their sister's cousin's father-in-law is building one out right now. They marvel at our accomplishments and sometimes inquire why we did this, or why we didn't do that. Always, the conversation comes easily and lasts longer than your average sitcom, and includes an excited exchange of stories and information about must-see places. The truly surprising thing is that more often than I would expect, this interaction concludes with the swapping of contact information and an offer of a place to sleep, shower, and share good company anytime we are passing through.
As someone who grew up during the "stranger danger" era, at first it was shocking that so many people would invite a couple of complete strangers into their home. But instincts are sometimes a good thing to follow, and it seems a fair assumption that the vast majority of people are genuinely good, even if the media tries to convince us otherwise. Regardless of their backgrounds, careers, upbringings, hobbies, health, or age, we find we have an instant connection to those individuals who take a moment to share with us their joy of travel, bikes, forests, vans, or just plain meeting new faces.
To all of the friends we have met already, and all the friends we haven't yet met, we thank you for your kindness and generosity. You are an inspiration and a huge part of what makes this journey so special!
Usually, the stranger has spent time living in a van or RV at some point in their lives, or has been dreaming of doing this someday, or heard that their sister's cousin's father-in-law is building one out right now. They marvel at our accomplishments and sometimes inquire why we did this, or why we didn't do that. Always, the conversation comes easily and lasts longer than your average sitcom, and includes an excited exchange of stories and information about must-see places. The truly surprising thing is that more often than I would expect, this interaction concludes with the swapping of contact information and an offer of a place to sleep, shower, and share good company anytime we are passing through.
As someone who grew up during the "stranger danger" era, at first it was shocking that so many people would invite a couple of complete strangers into their home. But instincts are sometimes a good thing to follow, and it seems a fair assumption that the vast majority of people are genuinely good, even if the media tries to convince us otherwise. Regardless of their backgrounds, careers, upbringings, hobbies, health, or age, we find we have an instant connection to those individuals who take a moment to share with us their joy of travel, bikes, forests, vans, or just plain meeting new faces.
To all of the friends we have met already, and all the friends we haven't yet met, we thank you for your kindness and generosity. You are an inspiration and a huge part of what makes this journey so special!
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