It was just a small gesture but one that had an impact: When I first moved to Boston from my hometown of Detroit, three new girlfriends suggested I get a passport.
"Just in case," said one. "You never know when you might need it."
It was advice that paid off. Several months later, I attended my brother's wedding in Rome. Not long after, I was going to Paris ALONE! Although I had traveled to much of the United States and had worked in several states as a journalist, I'd never had a passport. Where I was from, I didn't know anyone who traveled abroad--and I was 30. What I quickly discovered was that I was one of few of my colleagues who didn't. Looking back, was I the only?
In the several years since that time, I've traveled to 30 or so countries--France, Italy, Spain, Iceland, Belize--stretching myself personally in ways that I'd never imagined, seeing things that I didn't even know existed. I've met some of the most amazing people and had some of the amazing adventures. My world view has changed (for the better) as have my opportunities. Never did I think that the French classes that I took in Detroit Public Schools would come in handy! Where I now work, a passport can get you a stint working in Europe or Asia. Now other women tell me I inspire them.
Fellow travel blogger Tracey Friley, aka One Brown Girl, wants to do for 100 girls ages 11-16 what my friends did for me--help them get a passport. She is taking it one step further by sponsoring these passports through what she calls Passport Parties. So far, she's sponosored at least a half-dozen girls. Studies have shown that just 20% to 30% of Americans have passports.
By the way, she also sends girls to camp. How cool is that?
As Nicholas Kristoff in his book, "Half the Sky," empowering women leads to faster economic growth. Who knows how much more I might have gained had I been empowered earlier to travel the world?
I plan to help Tracey help girls see the world. Can you?
4 comments:
Thank you for your support and for sharing your passport story, Monica! Funny how a little encouragement can motivate you to take a small step that ultimately becomes life changing. That's what The Passport Party Project is all about and I appreciate that you are now a significant part of this legacy. Safe travels always. =D
That is amazing! It is interesting that as a journalist you did not have a passport. The mere encouragement of your friend to get a passport attracted travel opportunities to you. Awesome!
I remember us sitting in our Sisters On the Same Page book club discussing travel. Its fabulous to see all the places you've added to your passport since then. Good times!
I recently applied for a passport for my 17 year-old daughter. My 22 year-old son has one as well. I am trying to get one of my best friends to get one but she always has a lame excuse as to why she still doesn't have one after several years. A passport provides movitation to travel,experience the world and to learn about different cultures and people. I can't imagine being without one.
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