Saturday, April 09, 2011

feedback please . . .

Hypothetical situation. Let's say there is this guy, about to turn 50, not sure what he's seeking, but let's say 'experiences to bring him nearer to discovering his authentic self'. Let's describe his personality as: quiet, easy-going, non-judgmental, open-minded, introspective, somewhat naive (okay, gullible when it comes to trusting the 'good' intentions of others), timid in new situations, likes people but likes solitude as well, and somewhat ill-at-ease with the mechanics of living in a day-to-day work-a-day world for any sustained length of time. . . . Let's say his current situation is: unattached to any particular location, lacking any marketable skill for income above minimum wage, zero net worth or financial means (voluntarily surrendered a comfortable lifestyle and meaningless sheltered existence), very few possessions (a modest-sized duffle bag would do it), unencumbered by commitment, responsibility or emotional ties. And, for shits and giggles, let's just say he has a propensity for haiku/tanka/senryu and photography. Now . . . the hypothetical question . . . This guy would like to travel about, seeking new experiences, meeting new people (to touch and be touched by joyful lives) and to blog these experiences with haiga. But he doesn't want to go so far as to find himself as a wandering-beggar-monk (at least not yet), doesn't want to find himself in a homeless shelter, sleeping on the street or stranded in some unbearable situation. How does one begin? What kind of choices/opportunities/paths are available? Please! all input welcome!

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4 Comments:

Blogger Kirsten Cliff said...

There are some writer's residencies you could look into:

http://www.canserrat.org/
http://www.globalartsvillage.org/
http://www.stiftung-kuenstlerdorf.de/english.html

Hope that helps!
Kirsten

12:16 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

First of all, that tanka is a beaut.

Okay, about your other situation? Here's what I'd do: either just up and go, working hand-to-mouth, as simply as you can, travelling from state-to-state, trying to sell your photography/poetry along the way (which is what my friend Tyler did when he was 18/19), OR try to get a magazine or publication to sponsor you. Any local publications you know who might want to pick up the story? I think it'd make for an interesting read.

10:24 PM  
Blogger eric l houck jr said...

thanks aurora. you should see the feedback i got on this one on my facebook page. truly inspiring. still reflecting on which direction i should take. thank you again for all your kind comments and your continuous encouragements, they mean alot to me.

7:02 AM  
Blogger mattm said...

Eric

Were I to know someone in this hypothetical situation, I would recommend that they buy (or borrow) a bicycle that is comfortable to ride, get some panniers in which to keep their belongings, a tent, sleeping bag and mat and some cooking equipment. Then check out the blogs of Alistair Humphreys, Cass Gilbert, Steve Fabes and Pete Gostelow for inspiration and join the couchsurfing and warm showers communities. Then get onto the saddle and see how far their nose and the kindness of strangers will take them. And I would wish them good luck! Matt

4:40 PM  

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