The Blind Thistle

I’ve always dreamed of traveling the world. Unfortunately, it would seem, life always got in the way.

In my 20’s I was eager to pursue my education and then find work, plus I was broke, so no travel then. (Unless you count the times I spent what money I had returning to Newfoundland to visit family)

For most of my 30’s I was living all over Eastern Canada (and still broke) so that was sort of like travel, right? At this time I was kicking myself for not traveling in my 20’s like everyone says you should (after college trip to Europe anyone?)

It wasn’t until the past few 8 or 9 years that I have finally managed to get in a bit of “real” travel. You know, the kind that involves a passport, foreign languages, new cultures, rich history and stunning architecture (my FAV!) It also meant I had to bring along my white cane.

I mention the “white cane” because this means I’m serious.

The white cane means I want to focus on the scenery and take in everything I possibly can. But more importantly it lets the people around me know that I am Visually Impaired (as the white cane is a universal symbol of blindness and low-vision) so if I happen to walk into someone they won’t (hopefully) be pissed off at me. Of course, me being Canadian, I will apologize profusely anyways.

Nowadays (in my late 40’s “gasp”) I can’t help but feel some pressure to travel more. It’s like a clock is constantly ticking as a reminder for me to get out and explore the world. I hate it when some people say “well you are still young and have your whole life ahead of you to travel” knowing full well that my eyesight is deteriorating and someday I may be completely without any vision.

This is what has been driving me to get out there, the thought that one day soon I may have no “usable” vision and not be able to appreciate the many wonders in this world. The past 2 years we have been settling into our new home and enjoying it immensely but I can hear that clock ticking again. LOUDER this time.

I have started a list of the places I would love to visit:

• India
• Thailand
• Greece
• Italy
• France
• Germany
• Scotland
• Amsterdam
• Japan

So many places, so little time. I may have to combine a few of these. How about you, what are some places that you would like to visit?