I find it amusing the number of recent blog posts slamming travel as a worthwhile activity.  The topic could easily be substituted with a myriad of other subjects.
What strikes me as strange is the strength of emotion behind the posts.  If I didn't know better (or maybe I do), it sounds almost prejudice in quality.
If the topic was approached from the direction of environmental impact, I would understand it more.  Calling an activity a waste of time or unnecessary, I feel is inappropriate and unkind.
Not everyone appreciate or enjoys the same hobbies or past times.  Not everyone wants children.  Not everyone enjoys home ownership.  I would not label their choices as wrong just because it is different from mine. 
We are fortunate to be living in a country where one can pursue various interests and past times.  To knock another person's choice is a petty way of being "right".  I would prefer to describe that as a bad case of self righteousness. 
What happened to being gracious and open minded to differences?  I happen to enjoy reading and hearing about how differently people live their lives.  There is much to learn from each other. 
Sometimes it confirms the path I am on.  Sometimes it changes my path.  Both are good.
A wonderful Christmas Eve to Everyone!
Nicely said! I think for those who slam travel, it's because it seems blatantly excessive, or perhaps a waste of money, particularly for those of us on pf blogs for some reason.
ReplyDeleteBut I agree: if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything! There are hundreds of things other people do that I'd consider a waste of time/money, but travel certainly isn't one of them. What a wonderful education!
Merry Christmas to you!
Quite agree!
ReplyDeleteHappy a very Happy Holiday and I wish you all the very best for 2010 :-)
@ Northern Living Allowance;
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas to you too!!!
I agree. I too feel it comes down to common courtesy and appreciation of differences.
To be honest, I thought we as human beings have gotten past such behaviour so it shocks me when I encounter it.
Hi Laura!
What a great year you've had! I cannot wait to hear how things evolve for you in 2010.
A Very Merry Holiday Season to You and Yours!!