#10 so true. After years working on remote mining camps in Africa and South America, 3 months on, one off, coming home and meeting old friends the conversations go nowhere very quickly. You have just been round the world, they are in 9:5 mode. After the 1st sentence they usually move on to "oh that's nice" and start talking about lawnmowers.
@Al-Xelrio Жыл бұрын
Their brains can’t comprehend the non-corporate 9-5 world😂
@Blueberries1984Ай бұрын
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
@Stetsonhatman2 жыл бұрын
I joined the US Navy at 20, and I noticed many of my friends had joined to get away something. She is spot on.
@MrJazzPiano2 жыл бұрын
I worked on a ship back in the 1980's as a musician for a short time (6 weeks to finish out someone else's contract). I was asked to stay on, but had to go home to a land job. I had a fantastic time, but I do remember thinking that many people working on board just never grew up, probably because your life 24/7 is to create a party atmosphere. Your analysis in this video is so interesting, and you brought up something that hadn't occurred to me. I am straight, but we had some gay crew members also, and I didn't think much of it, but it's very likely they thought of it as a way to be in a place where they don't get judged like in their own country. I enjoy your videos!
@taproom1132 жыл бұрын
Love your channel. I've found all of your videos entertaining ... but this one really hits home. Having just retired from 47 years and over 26,000 hours as an Global Aviator, all the things you mentioned were relatable in my life. I too chose adventure over the ordinary. I've never had kids of my own but have had a few cases of AIDS ... (Aviation Induced Divorce Syndrome) ;-) My life has been extraordinary also and I have no real regrets. You make the best life choices you can, given the information available to you at the time ... and never second guess yourself. Always move forward. I think you have an amazing grasp of the important factors involved in having a happy life. I wish you all the Best and will continue to follow your trek through life as long as you continue to post. Cheers Lucy, ^v^
@markcollins26662 жыл бұрын
Congratulations on your retirement! And just in time! You Aviators have been declining from rockstars, to truck drivers or railway engineers, for some time now, held down by The Man, only bigger and better organized. A good friend's cousin also just crossed the finish line of the rat race, as an Aviator. You both have my sympathies, and God help the young 'uns, coming up.
@davidponseigo88112 жыл бұрын
It sounds like the world needs to be more like Virgin Cruise Lines, excepting of everyone no matter who they are or choose to be. Just knowing there is a small piece of this world like that makes me hopeful. I have been wanting to take a cruise and I think I found which one. Thank you.
@Refuse2be_Normal2 жыл бұрын
This video is EXTREMELY relatable. I travel for work, similar to a travel nurse. I became a father at 17 and missed out in my 20s entirely and after my ex and her husband moved to Florida I figured this is my time to discover who I am again and live my best life. I can control my time off. I live in a different state every 3 months or every year. After traveling for 4 years now I refuse to live a conventional life like everyone else I know. I enjoy the nomad life and i can afford to go in more cruises and trips living like this.
@ocean.w.a.v.e.s2 жыл бұрын
sorry for your kid but being free, not having that responsibilities and being able to do whatever you like with your life is amazing, that's why I prefer a kids free life, but I think once you have them you should try your best for them, we can traumatize kids as parents
@Refuse2be_Normal2 жыл бұрын
@@ocean.w.a.v.e.s lol there’s nothing to be sorry about. We have a unique situation and make the best of it. I can control my schedule and when I have the kids I can actually afford to take them places and do more with them. Made the best of a bad situation was the point of my comment 2 weeks ago.
@ocean.w.a.v.e.s2 жыл бұрын
@Anthony Hyatt I'm glad you are a present parent! wish the best for you and your family!
@Al-Xelrio Жыл бұрын
@@ocean.w.a.v.e.syeah being child-free is such a relief, it’s a shame that more people don’t even consider our way of life.
@ddjjss2 жыл бұрын
My granddaughter is thinking of applying for a cruise ship job. I encouraged her to go for it; sounds like a great job to me - for many of the reasons you mentioned in this episode. No rent, no utilities etc to worry about.
@pallomaandrade56172 жыл бұрын
Im from Brazil and I confirm, here is tough!!!! All my actual pay goes to rent and food... Is sad!!!!! Anxious to go to a ship!!
@markcollins26662 жыл бұрын
Just having watched this, it struck me, having had a military career, that most of these reasons apply to the military, as well. I was Army, but they apply even more to the Navy and Air Force. Naval sailors go to sea, where a cruise can last as long as 18 months. Air Force aircrews spend their time in the sky, traveling all over, but much faster. But yeah, a lot's the same. No bills, prepared food, laundry is your responsibility, and the whole outside cares and burdens can be left behind.
@giovannideventuri45062 жыл бұрын
As former Navy, I hear where you are coming from, BUT. We do have that built in element that when things get "HOT and HEAVY" it is not quite like being on a civilian cruise ship.
@BeautifulBoreal2 жыл бұрын
As a VERY Northen Canadian, I can 100% relate to running away from the winter. If I didn't have a family, I would love to work on ships to escape the snow.
@alexanderlapp50482 жыл бұрын
I wish I could go to live in Northern Canada, but I heard it is hard to become a Canadian citizen. I live in the United States.
@djahant2 жыл бұрын
Great video! I feel like I could do this even at 58. Kids grown, no partner and love to travel. Also working hard already at my current job. Thank you for this post.
@davidensign51722 жыл бұрын
Interesting introspection. I watch cruising videos for the vicarious experience. You bring an entirely different perspective. Enjoy watching, listening and learning. Also appreciate when you share scenes around the ship, e.g. crew's mess, berthing, shops, spa, etc. And, your off-ship places like in Run, Run, Run. Thanks! Just so you know - I'm old enough to be your grandpa; retired US Navy; have only 1 leg (no stump, at the pelvis); use a wheelchair; drive my car; live independently and enjoy KZbin for surrogate activities. So I suppose I'm running from reality. Keep Cruising as Crew.
@imitaveis2 жыл бұрын
I'm from Brazil and I'm going to work onboard on November. All that you said is true, we are struggling here to have a good life but things are getting worse. I hope I can send money home to help my family. Thanks for your videos!!
@sailorspills30252 жыл бұрын
Yes society pressures are a big one.. especially when all friends at home are getting married.. great video 😊 and plus unmarried childless woman are the happiest sub group
@johndittmer84882 жыл бұрын
Lucy, a lot of your lists reminds me why people join the Navy. The conditions are very similar.
@behindthespotlight79832 жыл бұрын
I’m not saying this to be smarmy. But guys must pretty much follow you around. Your personality is just magnetic ☺️
@softwaremaverick2 жыл бұрын
Your reasons are very much the sort of reasons I also believe in ie. Expectations and not living an ordinary life. I too don't feel like I want an "ordinary" life and when I watched your videos it even began to make me think I'd want to try working on a cruise ship for a year but I wouldn't want to share a cabin as I like my own space. In the last year I rented an apartment in a community-like complex where events and activities are organised for the residents which I very much like and I think working on a cruise ship is your equivalent. The other way of looking at it is you want a simpler life where you don't have to make big decisions and commitments so that you can easily drift wherever you want to go. Also I'm going to be cruising on valiant lady in October which I'm looking forward to. I've recently come to believe I may be autistic and have suffered with anxiety for quite a long time which for me explains why I want a simpler life with less things making me anxious when I don't want to be anxious.
@rreichar12 жыл бұрын
Great video! I absolutely get avoiding boredom. I had a job for many years that was dangerous but it was interesting. Avoiding boredom was why I never minded getting hurt. I was willing to trade the pain and injuries to avoid boredom. I’d still make the same choices again.
@jillianbrennie60532 жыл бұрын
I literally love the white eyeliner into the black, looks stunning
@walshdog612 жыл бұрын
You should try to get people on with experiences on the other cruise lines - that would be interesting
@demale12 жыл бұрын
Very intriguing concept for this video. I'm skipping sleep to watch
@GLOCKDPLUSFlowriders2 жыл бұрын
Agreed about England's weather, in the 80's i counted how many days I actually saw the sunshine, and it was less than 14! Less than 2 weeks from 52! I moved to Florida. Really miss the take away foods though!
@jeandalton71082 жыл бұрын
I think it is a very brave thing to do, to not just follow through with other peoples expectations of you. You have a good knowledge of what you want and how to achieve it. I hope this inspires other young people to carefully consider their options. Well done!
@bdogjr77792 жыл бұрын
Awesome Lucy🌷《☆》If I remember correctly Cpt Stubings Daughter was allowed to Cruise⛾😁🇺🇸HaHaHa ya that's Hollywood🖖😎☮
@ShaneTrace Жыл бұрын
Hit the nail right on the head as usual . You're a gem
@RandallMorris2222 жыл бұрын
Thanks for that, Lucy. It was obviously personally difficult and I always appreciate it when people are willing to share some insight into their lives.
@Carol_in_Spain Жыл бұрын
Lucy I love your videos. I just wish I was a lot younger and could start again and follow the life you are leading. I am living my dream through you 🥰
@my_duolingo_routine2 жыл бұрын
yes dear Every point is TOP 10 for sure. Thanks again
@Ariadne1472 жыл бұрын
I understand wanting to run away from An Ordinary Life. I think that's why I travel so much and try to spend a part of each winter in another state. I work remotely, so I can work from whether I want. Unfortunately, the wifi on cruise ships isn't good enough to work from them or I would cruise more. I think it's why I never got married. If I worked on a cruise ship, I would have had an excuse. On land, people just think "there must be something wrong with her" since I'm still single at my age.
@rkah61872 жыл бұрын
I guess you could try river cruises? The wifi's usually pretty decent.
@newtong5792 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing this video. You make some some very salient points on the reasons people do cruise work. I think in point Number 9 you said you were not interested in having an ordinary life i.e. getting married, settling down and having children. However, I would like to know, if a person you meet qualifies as "marriage material", and is committed to you what would you do?
@SueG8882 жыл бұрын
Lucy you are brave for putting yourself out there. I really appreciate your candor. I have an ordinary life that I sometimes love and sometimes hate. I save a lot of money for cruise vacations! I hope I meet you someday.
@GG17250 Жыл бұрын
Love your videos! I'm over winter for 9 months were I am. I'm looking into cruises during the winter months.
@cashjones69972 жыл бұрын
Thank you for getting a little vulnerable and introspective!
@ronjones1077 Жыл бұрын
Are you planning on retiring from a life on ships at age 65? Still doing a new “hook up” every couple of months? Life is an adventure and nothing is promised. Yes the ordinary build a foundation then strive to build on it to achieve enough of a nest egg to retire on so they don’t become a burden to children or other family members. A lot of things to consider when residing on a life’s journey. We are so lucky living in a country that doesn't (yet) have total control over us
@loribarber45262 жыл бұрын
Awesome as always…interesting to hear why people choose to be crew at sea!
@AlexanderB282 жыл бұрын
Wow, the video turned out to be deeply philosophical. I really liked it and agree with everything.
@marcelt72032 жыл бұрын
I live on land but run away for most things you mention as well. People in general have only two motivations in life, away from pain or towards happiness. As well as living is making choices between boredom or suffering.
@tessat3382 жыл бұрын
I walk dogs part time in the US and still make more than $600.00 USD a month. I also have a full-time desk job from home and make much more than that. The dog walking is about getting paid to exercise, to play with dogs, to meet nice people briefly, to look at pretty houses and neighborhoods and to get out into the sunshine. We get a lot of college students, grad students, people waiting get into a program (like vet school), retirees, seasonal workers, artists and work-from-home types like me. You do need a reliable car, a reliable smart phone and to be able to pass a background check and a drug test. The nice thing about passing one background check is that it makes it easier to pass the next one. This gets one on the employment track with a low barrier for entry. It also helps to like dogs and to not be afraid of them. You also have to be able to stick to a schedule.
@Mboheiogrl11 ай бұрын
I have never been on a cruise ship but I can definitely relate to the last two points (and probably also the first one). I worked as a flight attendant for a couple of years, have been off of it for 5 and now thinking of coming back to it because of those reasons! I don't want kids, I don't care about climbing the corporate ladder, and even though I enjoy the industry I'm now I don't see much of a reason to endure the 9-5 drudgery if I can have more flexibility and I could travel more, which I love. Many of my friends from my FA days had to change jobs after the pandemic and we are all a bit lost in the normal adult world!
@heisthomaz8184 Жыл бұрын
I realized that I'm a big runner, because I'm running basically from everything that you've said...
@FraserAtSea2 жыл бұрын
This video has really opened my eyes, and also made me realise that we need more cruise lines like Virgin - what a shame that we live in a world where people can't be accepted where they're from, and so move onto the ships to experience 'acceptance'. A great upload - really got me thinking!
@robbrown20072 жыл бұрын
Never thought of joining a cruise ship before watching this video. But now I am thinking of joining for reasons 1 - 10
@my_duolingo_routine2 жыл бұрын
the sound is on left year not both lol the previous about side jobs was good both channels sound
@prestonbroesder2 жыл бұрын
I will say this a lot of these apply to my profession as well driving trucks
@GregoryFariss2 жыл бұрын
Quick comment on audio: there’s something wrong with the right channel. It’s softer and more muffled than the left. Very interesting and fascinating topic in this video.
@boxborolad2 жыл бұрын
Great to see you are still around. I found (and enjoyed) your post pre-pandemic, saved a link & have just checked in. You are still delightful and I enjoy your posts. My wife & I have done six cruises to a variety of places. I confess I hadn't really thought about life for the crew (shame on me) but you changed that. All the best!
@luispauloneves84962 жыл бұрын
Again, a amazing analysis. You're very, very good at it! Congratulations! 👏👏👏👏👏
@demale12 жыл бұрын
With this degree of introspection and insight, you could collaborate with a writer on a damn fine novel set on a cruise ship
@761jared2 жыл бұрын
Thankfully I’ve found an amazing job where I don’t see the same people every week and travel several times a year. However, running away to join a cruise ship is tempting, but I do like having flexible work days and time off, as well as not working every day.
@minolinushara11212 жыл бұрын
I'm just finishing my stcw course's really hope to get a contract soon
@curiousman1672 Жыл бұрын
Very interesting post. Most of your posts are very interesting.
@riversendoutdoors3422 жыл бұрын
I have learned so much watching your videos.
@1mezion2 жыл бұрын
Such a great video, very deep, and after this video the cruise ship industry may see an increase in applications to join.
@my_duolingo_routine2 жыл бұрын
wow very phylosophic and psychotherapeutic video. thank you for your blog
@ilovevegimite2 жыл бұрын
So Lucy i have questions about what happens when people's contract finishes after say 6 months. Where do people live in between their contracts? Can they get short term rentals or have to stay with a family member? How do you get a good credit history while spending so many years working on cruise ships? I imagine it would be a bit embarrassing having to list Crew Bar expenses in the expenses section of a financial application form, LOL?
@mikejaimes70312 жыл бұрын
Starting with Princess next week on a 6 month contract. Can absolutely relate to the "running away from the past" aspect of this! Have watched severeal of your videos over the past few evenings - thanks for sharing so much about some of the stuff I might expect when I join the ship next week! :-)
@misspandora91242 жыл бұрын
U stil alive on princess I've just disembarked on 23
@rogermorrill15632 жыл бұрын
I was in the military for 23 year and my M.O sent me to many place in hrs sometimes so being in a serious relationship was not a great Idea. even with other in the military, I did try but like you it just never worked out . when i was with a lady I was always very up front and told her do not fall in love . and i will treat you as a lady but i cant comment as torrow i may be gone for 1 or more years , but beside this I so enjoy your videos , you have your head on your shoulders
@davidponseigo88112 жыл бұрын
I believe some people are satisfied with having a common but fulfilling life and some need adventure in their life. I have worked in law enforcement, I have owned a pub for a few years, I've been a security contractor ( mercenary ) for a better term, I own a firearms company and military antiques company, I always need to change things up in my life. In the next few years I plan on buying a ship and start a security ship business protecting commercial vessels from pirates and anything else to make money with a ship. As long as my family is with me and supporting me I can do just about anything.
@DeaLThomas2 жыл бұрын
Very candid and very introspective. Enjoyed it!
@steventwiddy34022 жыл бұрын
This question is for any of you who work on a cruise ship 🛳 I know there are very strict rules about fraternizing with passengers so what do you doing when your feeling frisky since your working for months at a time with very little time off it sounds like ? Just curious
@beentherecanada2 жыл бұрын
Brilliant topic Lucy, all of it is so true and so many of these discussions are such connective tissue between crew. You make me miss my days at sea.
@tena12382 жыл бұрын
I love watching your videos they are so much relatable
@PeterSF-no6no2 жыл бұрын
hi I am a two time cruiser (both Norwegian) and I usually bring a small gift for my cabin steward. What are some items YOU, as a worker that can't shop much, would like as a pre-cruise gift?
@PlanBProductioninc2 жыл бұрын
number 9 or 10 hands down , everyone hates doing what has been the norm or the nagging lol, great vid lucy
@captainjohn492 жыл бұрын
Lucy, Thanks for sharing! I think it is wonderful that you can be so open with yourself, to the whole world! Just brilliant! :) (and, I'll return the favor here, below....by sharing my thoughts on the extraordinary) As a more mature person, established in life, etc.....aside from the worldwide refugee crisis we have these days (and have had for many years now), I somewhat ignorantly never thought there that many people running away from all those additional things you mentioned. (thanks for the education) #9, the ordinary...not wanting the ordinary...yes, I can relate...(although, I'm very lucky in that I grew up in-ordinary / traveling / adventurous, so I didn't run away from ordinary, I never had it) I have also chosen an in-ordinary life...and it has turned into an extraordinary life! So, GOOD FOR YOU! :) Go For It! Strive for the extraordinary! Travel, learn, teach, explore, etc..and enjoy life! #10, expectations? (I don't think this applies much to me...but, a tiny bit?) I suppose being a bit older than you, and being male (and being American?), there are fewer expectations that anyone has of me... (but, I do know my elderly Mom, whom I'm caring for, wishes she had more grandkids...but, I never got around to having kids myself) So, guess I don't need to deal with "expectation" issues. Okay, this was my attempt at sharing....see some of my sailing videos for some examples of my extraordinary life. (btw, I learned about extraordinary life from my parents, who were true adventurers....so, a shout-out to my Mom and late father!) Thanks again, Lucy! Good show! :) John
@chetfriday76362 жыл бұрын
Thank you Lucy. Your honest assessments are appreciated.
@3000GTStealthGTO2 жыл бұрын
Incredibly informative and fascinating. Thank you for sharing and being vulnerable.
@davevicary85242 жыл бұрын
Nice vid Lucy. Love yr eyes x
@amberbeans2 жыл бұрын
I love this video 💜💜💜💜💜
@crazyjay76762 жыл бұрын
When I was jilted by my fiance 20 years ago I ran away and joined the Foreign Legion. If only I had known about cruise ships I could have saved myself all that time alone in the desert.
@petermaceda68572 жыл бұрын
Thanks again 😎
@melanycallagher83282 жыл бұрын
I think you have a beautiful plan for yourself. Trust me.... so many "expectations" are overrated! LOL Loves and hugs!!
@joemichaels42312 жыл бұрын
Wow!!! A lot of info! Thanks for sharing!!!
@AngelSalumbides2 жыл бұрын
Oh. I didn't know that people are running away from their home country because of the weather, it's the first time I've heard about it. And ya, being ordinary is way too serious and it's not for me too, because after I've worked in UAE, this time I'll try my luck and work in a cruise ship too. Expectations from the people around you or from your hometown is really draining, especially that they're looking at your age, that you need to achieve this and that. You need to have a baby and etc. I feel you!
@vbarraz2 жыл бұрын
I loved this video. Good to consider why we do what we do.
@shaikhfahad41332 жыл бұрын
@cruising as crew... Hello mam. Make one video on jewellery retail stores. Iam selected in starboard company for NCL cruise. i just want to know how its look. This my first experience in cruise line... 🥰
@jayedwardsuk59842 жыл бұрын
This is spot on thankyou
@ronwendt2 жыл бұрын
good insight for us!
@mr592explorer2 жыл бұрын
Love the vid I can relate to alot 💞💞
@mp-no9yv2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this. i always enjoy your posts. One small thing;: I don't know if it is me, but your voice sounds a bit muffled. could it be your mike?
@jillianbrennie60532 жыл бұрын
Can you make the categories in the video into separate chapters? Just so it is easier to go to the places you missed or want to rewatch...Thanks so much!!!
@travelwithdebandnick2 жыл бұрын
Great video :)
@MountainFisher2 жыл бұрын
Do you have a decent retirement plan? At one point or another you'll have to get off the ship. Once I decided this is what I want to do I set up my retirement plan. I'm 70 and retired at 55 and I'm doing OK.
@kizzlekakesАй бұрын
Some cruise lines offer 401 k.
@tamecoblack45922 жыл бұрын
Question am from the bahamas an you the world had covid & its litteraly stop the word..My question to you is .1.what are your plans if an event happen like that again?.2)What are your plans are you retires? 3) what is the retirement age for cruiseship
@CruisingAsCrew2 жыл бұрын
I haven’t planned for another Covid. and the retirement age is usually 60 years old.
@wardjohnson1962 жыл бұрын
Do you and/or family members get discounts when you travel as as a passenger?
@laevikah26132 жыл бұрын
I got invited for final interview as Help Desk Agent. Ngl this nervous lol
@TatiAna-vg9fi Жыл бұрын
Interesting video. I have the same outlook on life as you. Ordinary rutinary life. Soooooo boring and life wasting.
@LoganPlaysGaming Жыл бұрын
Hello in this video you said that you feel like you have more control over your life working on a ship in the way that you can choose to have one month off or even 7 months off. I'm interested in knowing how this works (I want to work on a ship). At the end of your contract do you quit and decide when to re-apply? or do you get to choose how many months off you want between contracts! I really like your videos and how you see this question! Thank you!
@Honolulu-Blue2 жыл бұрын
When you mentioned persecution, I thought the next item was going to be PROSECUTION. Mariners have a long history of running from the law - parking tickets, alimony, or more serious stuff. It's a lot harder to get away and stay away than it used to be, but I'm betting there are still some crew out there that have some legal trouble back at home and aren't in a hurry to get back.
@sylvaindupuis55952 жыл бұрын
I don't work on cruise ship and I'm now retired, but I can relate with those feelings, maybe that is why I got hooked on your channel. I worked 4 years in a hydro-electric project in the north of province of Quebec in Canada. We always said that we worked in a "Golden cage". Like you, we didn't have to prepare our meals, house cleaning and so on, we worked 10 hours a day, 6 days a week (sometime 7 days) for 5 weeks or more before getting a week off. The main difference is that contrary to you, the tundra of northern Quebec is far from the glamour of a cruise ship, but on our week off, we had plenty of money to spend. Many people who worked in camp like that for some years just couldn't readapt to a "normal" life and spent the rest of their life going from project to project.
@alexanderlapp50482 жыл бұрын
Where do you live in between contractors? I just wonder what you would do and where you would stay for the in-between months. A hotel could get really expensive. Maybe you could make a video about what you do in-between contracts. If you already made that video, I apologize.
@thetsoe5318 Жыл бұрын
It's true. I work in finance/investment. Make good money. I will be joining NLC. Just signed my contract. 9 to 5 job is borning. After a while, I just want to quit. I will be joining a cruise ship to meet new people, travel, and work (have income). My type of lifestyle.
@chrislarimore40962 жыл бұрын
How do i approach to get a job on the ship ..?
@ivanz3222 Жыл бұрын
The thing about other people and their opinion is quite simple; they don't pay your bills and they won't ask u do you have something to eat. Many people ask questions about your private life totaly by default, they don't actualy care about your life. Unfortunately, so many people falls into that trap called "opinions of others". U can't please others whatever u do, your happiness is your job, just like their. Fortunately, I learned that important lession very early in life
@dgale10232 жыл бұрын
I just have one thing that I would disagree. I went on my first cruise on NCL to Alaska. In no way would I call that luxury. Balcony cabin and all you could barely move. Food is good, entertainment was ok to very good. Very good being one show. Excursions uh yeah. 2 out of 4 were good. Its got to be better maybe Celebrity or if I go where Virgin cruises then I will try that. Great channel Lucy!
@williamsmith29192 жыл бұрын
Being on virgin do you wonder if it will go all the way xx
@danieloyaro46392 жыл бұрын
While you were working in p&O cruise line,Did they allow tatoos.I am a chef and I hv been Accepted on board.And Do they have service Charge
@pawshog2 жыл бұрын
My wife and I are going on a Virgin cruise in November. What ship are you on?
@sushantgholap26982 жыл бұрын
Do you have any colleagues from marella cruises
@captainjohn492 жыл бұрын
Lucy, Thanks for sharing! I think it is wonderful that you can be so open with yourself, to the whole world! Just brilliant! :) (and, I'll return the favor here, below....by sharing my thoughts on the extraordinary) As a more mature person, established in life, etc.....aside from the worldwide refugee crisis we have these days (and have had for many years now), I somewhat ignorantly never thought there that many people running away from all those additional things you mentioned. (thanks for the education) #9, the ordinary...not wanting the ordinary...yes, I can relate...(although, I'm very lucky in that I grew up in-ordinary / traveling / adventurous, so I didn't run away from ordinary, I never had it) I have also chosen an in-ordinary life...and it has turned into an extraordinary life! So, GOOD FOR YOU! :) Go For It! Strive for the extraordinary! Travel, learn, teach, explore, etc..and enjoy life! #10, expectations? (I don't think this applies much to me...but, a tiny bit?) I suppose being a bit older than you, and being male (and being American?), there are fewer expectations that anyone has of me... (but, I do know my elderly Mom, whom I'm caring for, wishes she had more grandkids...but, I never got around to having kids myself) So, guess I don't need to deal with "expectation" issues. Okay, this was my attempt at sharing....see some of my sailing videos for some examples of my extraordinary life. (btw, I learned about extraordinary life from my parents, who were true adventurers....so, a shout-out to my Mom and late father!) Thanks again, Lucy! Good show! :) John