Everything Has Changed, My Realisation - VLOG

[@willyOAM]

G'day legends, Have a great Christmas tomorrow and enjoy your day :) Not reporting in this video, very different to my usual content but making videos as I use to and I really enjoy doing. Support Channel directly: www.patreon.com/willybeatingcancer www.paypal.me/MWilliams745 MERCH willys-merch.creator-spring.com/ Highlights Channel: kzbin.info/door/DachW-2tQTAIOLDvybZbRAfeatured Official Enquiries: [e-mail]

[@501promo]

Merry Christmas Willy! Got my shirt yesterday ...Love it. Have a great holiday! You're not alone, I had the same experience when I went home a few years back. I didn't get it either man but, you're right, people just change. Don't sweat it, brother.

[@GLOBAL-STRUGGLE]

Merry Christmas mate have a good time with your family god bless you all

[@GLOBAL-STRUGGLE]

Also don't stress man your friends change alot I have had mates I've done sooo much for and they throw it in my face and some that literally haven't even invited me to their wedding when I was there best mate for life they went to the army and that was it I've just learned to live with it and you meet more people as you go and good people. Some people are meant to stay in your life some aren't

[@JCResDoc94]

*fire.* merry xmas man. _JC

[@JCResDoc94]

6:00 looks so much like my moms house. _JC

[@Pestily]

Hey mate, firstly Merry Christmas. This is a thing as to why I don't really have lots of friends anymore and I keep close the real ones. And it's not because other people aren't worthy of being friends but people grow apart and their worlds change or don't change. Paths differ ultimately. Anyway we will talk soon for sure. Much love brother

[@GlideYNRG]

The older you get you find things changing and getting “left behind” . I don’t fight it anymore. Just gotta roll with it. You’ve done way more with your life than many of us ever will and things we won’t understand. Keep being your own bloke. Have a good Christmas mate.

[@LongBinh70]

Hello, Willy. It's as it has been and always will be. I served in the US Army in Vietnam 1970-71. My bunkmate and I had great plans to return to the States and circumnavigate the country on motorbikes. We planned the whole route, even the motorcycle model (Honda 305 Dream Touring), timing, etc. Because of enlistment times he shipped out two months before me. Just before I got back I got a letter from him. He'd landed a great engineering job with the local power utility company, and couldn't leave. He ended up staying with the company for 45 years, so I guess it was the right move. He felt bad, but I was devastated. But I got over it.

[@jeffewert8798]

Willy, I am US combat vet who has dealt with this. And also I have been diagnosed with a tumor also. Mine is operable but I may lose some speech. Hang in there and you honestly want to vent I would love to talk. You are a extremely intelligent dude who puts out good things. Hang in there!

[@dixztube]

Wish you the best in your heath journey. I hope it’s covered financially I’d love my tax dollars going to help folks with medical conditions I just don’t get why we don’t have that foe each other it would unify us all but that’s another issue

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

Good luck rehabilitating your speech if you have to brother

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

@@dixztube why don't you just send him some cash voluntarily brother? If you cut out the goobermint middle man by giving the money voluntarily rather than making everyone by taxing everyone, I bet more of the money will make it to his pocket without people that want salaries constantly scraping off the top. Especially when they raise the cost of everything because they assume the taxes will just pay no matter what. Send cash and dont support making tax payers pay just because you do because the issue is not everyone wants their taxes going up for Healthcare they didn't even receive. We can avoid that whole nightmare by giving each other the money straight-up and then there isn't a ton of middle men ruining it 😂

[@dixztube]

@@TheAnnoyingBoss that might work for a personal case but i meant more in a societal for all. plus im already being taxed so id rather it go to health of my fellow citizens (im not australian but american) than fighting wars and paying off corrupt companies. if you can get rid of taxes then you might have a point but i'm in the world we are in not the world you imagine. so that's why

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

@@dixztube you're a retard. Ifnyou really cared you'd donate the money right now rather than trying to force the masses to pay for tour own Healthcare because you're a pro slavery moron that's blinded by your emotional feeling of thinking you're doing good when what you're really doing is forcing me to pay for your Healthcare becsuse you yourself don't mind. If you didn't mind then why don't you donate the money right now to someone who has Healthcare bills and cut out the government money sucking middle man at the same time as financially enslaving us all?. Your name is rich, it's such a shame your ideas are so terribly poor. If you like slave healthcare go live in Canada where they already have tax payer funded Healthcare and are turning people away from care and only willing to pay for assisting their suicide

[@souldimitriou9480]

Hang in there buddy, You are the epitome of what it means to be an Aussie . Keep punching, there are a ton of people praying for you . “You’ll be right !”

[@CivDiv]

Yo this was an awesome video to watch for me personally. You’re an absolute free spirit bro, keep the light alive!! You can hit me up anytime, might actually be able to stop by Australia in a couple months on my way back to Indonesia, and If I do it would be for a beer with you and maybe bring my girl along who knows

[@weh1003]

You are not alone in this experience. Recently returned to my home town to settle some estate issues for a relative...the feeling of having grown beyond that past life is such a strange feeling of emotions.

[@Zoroff74]

It's an effect that gets stronger if you are moving faster than the people of your past. Means having to also make some connections that are more adapted to where you are in life. Also, getting children will change the balance a bit, because then you are creating a past for them, in the now. That's one part of why it's so fascinating to create new people.

[@KingDomsKingdom85]

Mate, we've come to love the bones of you. I suppose I'm not in the minority here when I say that I was first alerted to your channel following the missiles first hitting Ukraine, and ever since then I've followed your channel closely as I've grown really connected to you and your life without ever having met... I want the absolute best for you in every facet of life mate. Your videos from Ukraine are some truly special content and will be viewed for many, many years to come by millions of people. I'm truly appreciative that you have documented your time there pal. Sending a lot of love to you and your loved ones this Christmas mate from little old Leicester, England. 🦊💙🇬🇧🙏 Edit: You say in your monologue on the dunes that you feel that you need to find your "grown up" purpose in life mate... I genuinely believe that you're a cut above the rest when it comes to military VLOGS pal, I understand however that its not fair on loved ones every time that you step into a theatre of war, but my word matey... you're so f###ing talented at it.

[@jeffw.4604]

Military Service changes us, I had the same effect after returning on leave only a couple years after I entered service...your mindset changes, your perspective changes and some people don't understand. in the same right I can call up or meet up with a military mate I haven't talked to in years since I got out and carry on/pick up with/continue a conversation without missing a beat...Dont stress too much about it. Oh and Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year from a loyal fan in Texas. - SSgt Jeff W., USAF, SF (Veteran)

[@BBGuitars]

Can sympathise 110%, been back in Vic since getting out in 2018 and Im lucky to see one or a couple of my old mates once a year. Had kids I would love them to meet, got married, even built a house and havn't managed to have one person come to see. Its hard, these people were my brothers and sisters, my chosen family, we all grew together and went through a lot together, it makes you feel so small and insignificant, even just writing about it is hard to keep the eyes dry. If it werent for my physio, Dr, and exercise phys id have zero social life outside of my home.

[@christinawhite3859]

I watched your video from Georgia, USA. I hope you find your place there at home during your visit. As a mother, my advice is to know how much your visit means to your family, and feel their love. Love is a mystery. You are a mystery to your family having left. You can't go back, but I hope you can go forward knowing that you will always "belong" there as an important part of family. Just a thought. I send best wishes for you to just enjoy the moments. You are a kind man with a very challenging purpose. Thank you for what you are doing.

[@willyOAM]

Thankyou so much, you're amazing

[@zakartv]

Brother I totally feel you. All those “close friends” now you just have a bunch of “acquaintances” who are too busy and wrapped up to even understand. We’re similar age and I I’ve noticed the same thing.

[@CraigWilsonAust]

Mate, just come across from a US channel I watch (why have I not come across your channel before, I try to search out fellow Aussies?). Hopefully, with what he is alluding to, you have just received what will be your "career". Don't stress, life changes even the most simplest things, coming from a bloke double your age, been there, done that, and the real kick in the guts was when the wife left. One thing it made me realise though, don't not do something because you fear it won't be the same, nothing ever is, that's life. Instead face it head on, you will know where you stand & who really has your 6. All the best with your future.

[@GP30277]

You’ve made new life long friends across the globe Willy, If you’re ever in the UK, I wouldn’t say no to a beer! Especially with all the life experiences you’ve had, I’m sure you’ve got a lot of interesting unshared stories too, keep it up buddy. We love you.

[@willyOAM]

Thankyou legend, I really appreciate it Merry Christmas

[@KingDomsKingdom85]

@@willyOAM I second that mate, ever find yourself in Blighty then it would be an honour to buy you a beer too pal.

[@artiiione9996]

@@KingDomsKingdom85 Blighty in NSW? That place is TINY….

[@KingDomsKingdom85]

@@artiiione9996 is there actually a place called Blighty in Australia? Lol. That's awesome!!! 😂

[@gavinferguson]

You can Can include a few beers up here in Scotland and a comfy bed for a few nights least I could do to repay the eye opening reports you created this year

[@tiitsaul9036]

I appreciate you sharing your personal space. I can relate mate. I grew up in Estonia, I came to Australia in 2006 and returned back home for a few weeks in 2015. It was a mixed bag of emotions. It was great to see my people and I was hanging out with my friends like I never left. But after a visit not a single person messaged me to say they were glad to see me or something. It's almost like I don't exist and disappeared from their life. I just now realised it's been nearly 8 years again since my last visit home.

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

Well to be fair bro that's exactly what you did 😂 you actually did basically dissappear for a large chunk of their life. Man time is flying so fast brother. It feels like yesterday I was in 3rd grade and I'm 24 now. It's crazy. One day really does fly by and we only have so make bro. And usually we all leave earth sooner than we want. Even the old people can't believe they got old so fast.

[@deathhexxxgaming3431]

Man I hope you get a chance to read this... after about a decade of service, I returned to my home town and experienced the same fucking thing. It sucks... it's a little heart breaking. But, having years to sit and think the situation through, I realized something. You mention "the time capsule" aspect, I had the same goddamn thing. What it is man, it's hard to process this, I'm an old man at this point, well, I'm not young and have had some time to learn a lot about people and kick some ideas around and figure somethings out. This "Time Capsule", when someone has been away, at least with me, I expected to go back and pick up with everyone right where I left off. When I got back, I just couldn't grasp why people weren't as excited to see me as I was to see them. I couldn't hardly get the time of day from anyone that I felt I would have done damn near anything for. I expected to go back and everyone and everything to be almost like it was and it shocked me kinda when that wasn't the case. People live their lives, things happen, disappointments happen, tragedies, hell, even the good things shift people deeply and in 5 years almost no one is who they were. There's so much going on at any one time that can change people to their core. Change is the law of life. This is just a reality of not being a constant in someone's life who doesn't unconditionally love you. Now, another thing, is you've been in the military. You've experienced comradery on a level that very few civilians know anything about. You've learned over that time, known to yourself or not, the generosity, the loyalty and the compassion that comes with that comradery. Realized or not, that has changed you deeply and made you into a much more solid individual than many, many people that have not experienced that type of life. Most people walking around these days couldn't bothered to help someone if they saw someone who clearly needed a little help. I bet my money, you would go out of your way to help someone if you saw someone that needed it, even if it were just a little help, or a whole lotta help. It's a hard thing to go back home and realize it's become something you don't recognize, or worse yet, see some people who don't seem to really recognize you. It's just part of it man, you can't be gone that long and expect to go back and things not be totally different. I get it, shit sucks... it tore me up for a good while when I came home. Just gotta do what you can, with who you can, and make the best of it. (to be honest, you probably wouldn't care for them a whole hell of a lot once you learned what they've become over the time, at least that was my case once I realized how things really were. The idea of something is always better than it actually is) As far as you not having a real life... seems like you're doing well from all I've seen. You're doing some really great, amazing things with this channel, you seem decently put together financially, you seem intelligent, driven... don't stress that too much man. As far as going home and some of your old dudes maybe having you feeling like something isn't right with you, you're doing some cool stuff man and they're still at home and have been. Imagine living a boring ass life in a small town, and the dude that you use to know who got out in the world, been places, seen some crazy shit, comes back, full of life and acting happy as hell, kinda the same, like life and monotony hasn't crushed him down... If anything they're probably looking at you beating themselves up for not going out into the world, seeing things, living a life with some adventure. Looks to me like you got a good life, just keep that in mind. You can do only what you can do, as long as you stay virtuous and respectful, you can't control how people will treat you. As bad as it is, sometimes man, you just gotta keep pushing, find some people that can appreciate you for who you are now, and don't dwell on things like this or let it make you question yourself or become bitter. You got this shit man... all that just happened is you learned a little about life and gained a little deep wisdom. I think a lot people, especially people that have served in the armed forces, have been exactly where you are, making this video. Best of luck brother, wish you the very best, above all, to yourself, stay true.

[@deathhexxxgaming3431]

Sorry about writing the book there... I just get it man, totally.

[@Sharna_Rose]

Wish I had got a chance to know the both of you guys, and thank you for your service. I'm living in a home alone and won't invite people around as I don't like people they are shitful...how come I could sit and have a beer and chat about my dad being a hermit after ww2 with you two. And don't worry ya all I'm to old for that shit now lmao

[@leidersammlung6955]

Good morning you bloody legend! We appreciate you here in North Dakota, merry Christmas to you and yours!

[@willyOAM]

Thankyou legend

[@Peaceful-resistance1]

Thanks for being who you are Willy. Appreciate your openness and honesty, something your mates back home don't enjoy. I'm 66 and still deciding what I want to do when I grow up. No regrets for leaving the "normal" life behind in the rearview mirror. Do what brings you joy and go where you find peace. It doesn't matter what others think. Truth out, many are probably jealous. Love ya man.❤ Peace out✌😎

[@Brakvash]

Don't worry about your lifestyle man - that's what it is - a lifestyle, and your friends chose to settle down cause they were in an environment where it was easier to settle down. You on the other hand continue to be the maverick and adventurous reporter going far and wide, pushing the envelope for the betterment of the world. I am a quiet man with few ambitions, and I respect you. You give me a window into how it is to be the adventurer, and trust me people respect and envy you for your freedom of movement (in spirit and physically) even thou they may never say it. You bring value to this world - and so do your friends. You are no more or less important in your chosen contexts/environments.

[@lesserlogic9977]

I can understand the feelings. I had cancer at 20, and when I recovered fully many years later. No one contacted me while I was sick, and all their lives had moved on. Some I couldn't even contact.. I've moved on in my own life though. But those good Ole days, feel untouchable sometimes. Merry Christmas all

[@namiboosterhuizen6610]

No wurries man. Im 63 now and still don't know what I want to be when I grow up!

[@chaunceywilliams8405]

Hey glad you went back. You brought a lot of joy to your mom. And let's not forget the love your pup showed you. Stick with the positives you brought to those who wanted to be with you.

[@NCrdwlf]

I don’t miss that angst I felt in my 30s . My 40s and 50s have been so peaceful. Circles get smaller and tighter. It’s part of growing up and growing older I think. I sure remember feeling like that in my late 20s and 30s . I was out bumping around and not really settled . I got out of the army , Raced bikes and surfed and just tried to get the army out of me . I watched my friends go off with their families . You will find your way, and purpose . Don’t rush it and enjoy the ride .

[@AidanandAssociates]

Super appreciate this vulnerable side of your content mate. It takes a lot to sit in front of the camera and express what you feel. You are doing incredible work mate and this career you are going on will be one that will take you places you never thought you could! This was a great vlog and I would love to see as much of your life through vlogs as you are comfortable sharing 😊😊

[@mikee1891]

Never forget that YOU have a valuable “real life” too. It’s just different from the path your friends took. It’s a shame that people didn’t want to or couldn’t get together but people do change and we never know what they might be going through. I hope you had a great Christmas and we’re able to spend quality time with your mom. ❤

[@toemag]

Oh Brother from a different mother, there’s an old saying, you can never go back, and everting remains different. Been back to where I grew up and I was a different person, some of them were sitting in the same pub, same stool and my impression was that they envied me, and resented me for having been around the world. We have our memories, Fear Naught. God bless and merry Christmas and a happy new year 🥳 from Bremen Germany.

[@willyOAM]

Amazing mate, thankyou so much

[@girlfriday1299]

Willy, you have the best kind of life! As a struggling artist at 67, my greatest wish is that I hadn't listened to other people so much when I was young, including my parents. Keep living the life, and enjoy it all. Cheers, and God bless! 💖💖

[@gloriagavaneli9862]

Don’t apologise. You are quite right your best mates should have been there for you even for a day. Sorry you had to have this disappointment at least you got to see your family. Merry Christmas and a happy new year. We are here for you even when you winge. Lol ❤

[@robertyouart3982]

When you leave home it stays the same in your head but it moves on as well and its just not the same when you go back. Thanks for all you do .

[@jpvielleux]

Morning Willy, Merry Christmas! Edit: I'm sorry your trip home went the way it did. Big hug brother.

[@willyOAM]

Thankyou brother, you too

[@bobmathieson987]

Nice one Willy and you will thrive. I remember a book I read in my early twenties called "Blue Highways" and there was a quote in there from a Hopi Indian Cheif who said the greatest thing a man can do with his life is Go, Just Go or words to that effect. And I have. Similarly, I spent Christmas day with an old school friend who like me was to be alone for Christmas except for a short visit from a daughter and son in law. It was in my home town and that alone was interesting. When word got around somehow in a few hours there were visits from various faces I hadn't seen in 40-plus years. I had so many anecdotal stories of my travels and experiences but reserved them because I could sense a sort of envy and edgy uncomfortably handled defensiveness because they had all stayed there and did what they considered to be the righty by their parents and family connections, to buy a house, get married, have kids, be part of the community, like why would you want to leave? You have to inner smile and go with that in that circle, but man isn't it great to have adventures and Go. Wouldn't be dead for quids.

[@gopaladas]

We all love your content, don't think you don't have a life. Continue doing what you love, and if you pass through Upstate NY, come and say hello!

[@oklahoma_918]

Parents house is Gorgeous I love the inside and out! 👍

[@tonytravels2494]

I'm staggered mate, I would have thought the bros still would have been there for you even after all the years? I'm kinda in the same boat though man... Life is so weird these days... People so weird too... Maybe it's just me? Or 'us' as the case may be..? It's messed up man, but sometimes you gotta leave the past behind ya and just keep moving forward. I pray you find the peace and the fulfillment you feel you lost from the past somewhere in the not too distant future mate!

[@56Spookdog]

What a beautiful home hope the visit doesn’t sour the good time memories. I’ve seen this in work places where someone has been part of a crew for years had lunch together, listened to life’s ups and downs, supporting each other, fun celebrations in and out of work, helping in diy home repairs and then a retirement and you’re no longer part of the crew. The visit back to the job smacks you in the face, the crew is cordial with the what’s up! Nice to see you, see you later but nice to see you. Life is disappointing when expectations don’t meet reality. Keep making new memories with the people you have. I’m sorry what was important to you wasn’t important to others.

[@Humphreyat86]

Hey Willie, I feel your pain. I lived 3.5 years overseas in the 1990s & while I loved my time away, I missed my old friends & remembered the good times we had together. I emailed almost daily, but when I got back home it was obvious that everything had changed. I had changed, my old friends had got used to life without me & they didn't think of me when organizing their lives anymore. I'm surprised your mates couldn't make it out for one night - I had this problem when I came back to stay for good, not for a quick visit. I didn't anticipate it because whenever I returned for a quick visit, it would be like nothing had changed.

[@BRADLEY856]

I went home 20 years after I joined. That was 22 years ago and haven’t been back since mate. Best of the season

[@TrumpAndKamila]

I get it Willy, I travelled. , joined the army, left, travelled , got injured, brain injury, ended back home, people dont know how to take me now. Even before the head injury, I worked. around, and people dont understand others lives. It gets to me. chin up Willy. your life. is bigger than a small town

[@ioppdal]

My dear boy, you do so much more than your friends... can't really compare one with the others. We love you as you are Stiffler! Happy Christmas!

[@kellyshifflett-PeopleChange]

tear jerking homecoming - started with Z’s greeting & then your mum’s hug…eyes still not dry. So I just want to say thank you for speaking on something that isn’t easy, that many have run into but most won’t ever put out to let others know… hopefulness not realized (aka disappointment) is often harder to do than outright unexpected tragedy… For what it’s worth, here’s what I see: you’re “catching up with yourself” and YOUR real life. Your real life has some very different elements than your mates. And you’ve been in different holding patterns in the last few years than they have too (they’ve had their own as well tho). The challenge isn’t about getting everyone all caught up with each other… that’s hard to let go of tho. The challenge is to know where you were, where you are, and catch up with yourself… unpack, sort out/ clean up gear, and reload the bags, and then move on out again. And yes you *should* have broken the time capsule like you did (and that’s why you were moved to finally get back there to see what’s up anyway) - because if not, you’d not have had the realizations you did. Ones which you need to in order to catch up with yourself. You know what you DON’T want to do - and that’s at least half the battle of knowing what you DO - and how you go there in next steps. You’re finding your way… and sometimes that means looking at where you’ve been and retracing some steps while you rest up and get ready for moving on. Thanks for sharing some hugely important perspective for everyone! God bless, Godspeed, and Merry Christmas! and please keep sharing all your many blessings in the new year to come!

[@tonytravels2494]

Bless you

[@1029db]

Man you are not alone. It’s a hard reality to confront, but it’s a must to keep growing. I believe you have hit a milestone that most people don’t.

[@coloradom1009]

You can go back to the place but you can not go back to the time. Sometimes you have to find new mates that are in the same place in life as you. Have a Merry Christmas!

[@steveheck7754]

Thanks for sharing. It means a lot to us. Also want to acknowledge , what a great listener you are in all your interviews. Rare gift.

[@denachea7533]

Your moms home is lovely! Thank you for sharing Willy!

[@shootinputin6332]

Hey mate, I am originally from Warrnambool. Was surprised when you mentioned it. Not a big pub person, though, but the Shan is where I would go if i was going out. Warrnambool's a great place to visit, but not the best place to live. Moved away to Hobart and am now in Geelong. My folks are still in Warrnambool, but I could never move back there. I am not the same person I was when I lived there, and there are just too many memories tied to every inch of that place. I prefer to close that chapter and create memories elsewhere. I know some people who have never even left the place, I just couldn't do that. Especially when you are talking about small towns - with small town mindsets. In those places, people will get an idea of you when you're growing up, and will keep that idea of you, even with all the experiences and developments that take place in life. Anyway, that's my little TED talk/rant/whatever. Have a good Christmas, mate. You've had a good year with your channel, and it's been great to see it grow as it has. You've really come into your own with your reporting on Ukraine. Keep it up.

[@DWandtheenablers]

Not a whinge at all. Good that you got it off your chest. The stuff you are feeling is what we all do, and those of us support your channel, support your growth and progression. Life is definitely a strange journey

[@pjoneal12]

Your friends probably don't affect my life one bit. You make a difference to me and thousands of others. You may have missed those friends but you have more than most people could dream of.

[@marciahellen5740]

Merry Christmas Matt! Life changes are bittersweet, but they happen to all of us. Live your life, love your friends, even those who seem to move on without you and be grateful for each day as the gift it is. There truly is no going back, only forward. See you in the next video! Cheers to the New Year and love to Lilly.

[@jonathanmarsh9263]

Your mates should have been there for you Willy. With all you have done, they should have been there for you. If you ever come to Perth, hit me up, me and my mates would treat you like family!

[@Hotcarl1]

You're not alone brother. Keep being you because it's beautiful.

[@carlbrown9082]

I've been very lucky in that I've stayed close to a small number of mates from my hometown, who I still see once or twice a year after 30 years of leaving school. I've also not done those things most other people my age have, I.e. get married, have kids, etc. So I get a small bit of what you're saying. You've also had experiences that they don't understand and maybe even fear (like your cancer diagnosis), and that brings distance too. It's still sad to have that youthful memory punctured. My very best wishes to you and your family, wherever they may be. Merry Chrustmas and a Happy New Year. If you're ever in Cape Town, South Africa, I'll gladly buy you a beer or two and a meal, maybe even a braai.

[@jonasbauer3942]

Just discovered your content, can't stop viewing and reading comments. Keep up the good work, so interesting, down to earth.

[@_lukemills]

Man I feel like it’s all just a part of growing up, I’m going through the same thing with old mates at the moment. Merry Christmas Willy, all the best mate 🎉

[@coltonburge1450]

Ive grown apart from 99.99% of my Adolescence friends. I had hundreds of friends I thought. And once you move away from them. Even a couple years, you realize maybe 1 or 2 of them are your true friends That you can count on. For me it doesn't matter how much time we spend apart. I'll pick up the conversation as if I seen them yesterday. I hope you know there are people who do care for you willy. Come to America and I'll grab a beer with you

[@benohanlon]

1 or 2 is high 👍

[@whiskeythree1622]

Hey Amigo -- appreciate your channel, you do an outstanding job of humbly presenting an objective view. I have somehow arrived at the 5th Level ( I'm in my 50's ), and I too have spent much of life hoping to recover the comradery of the hours of my youth. It has been tough to realize most people change and don't choose to value the relationships of years past. Kind of like the export message at the end of the movie Stand By Me. A silver lining is to really cherish others who DO value and invest in lifetime friendships and to BE a faithful friend. Keep in mind that it has been said "We do not make friends -- rather, we recognize them." Prayers out for you & the family, and wish you a fun week.

[@cjaygreene1126]

A lot to take in fellow warrior Bill.take it easy enjoy being home and thank you for your service buffalo bill.love from the capital of Scotland

[@jamannk]

Thanks for the candor. You aren’t alone in this… people grow apart and lives change, it sucks sometimes but the older you get the more life kind of feels like stages that you don’t realize you’re in until you’ve moved on to a new one. Some friends and aspects carry over, others fall behind. Keep your chin up.

[@nay.murray6097]

it happens to alot of people when you move out of your home town, especially as a young person and you experience alot of things and forget that most people back home are living small town lives, working jobs, getting married and having children and your friendships come at the end of the list . i think people who move to big citys notice this the most. your life consists around work and socializing, generally you dont have to worry about money and you dont have long term partners or children . its why alot of friendships you hold in school dont make it to your adult friendships as most people re-arrange there friendship groups into other people who are living a similar lifestyle. obviously for you willy its difficult as your constantly traveling and other people in the same field are also moving around. i enjoy seeing videos like this as it shows the otherside of persuing this type of career that many dont show xx

[@p0xus]

Regardless of your mates - I think it was good to go back, see your mom, see your dog.

[@ivarstikums]

Very busy year for you, people in Europe appreciate work you’ve done on showing real and gritty side of what’s going on. Merry Christmas.

[@jeffbreezee]

Merry Christmas, Willy! Showing us your home and hometown is a treasure trove of content. Happy Holidays from Montana!

[@lilspoon4429]

Thanks for posting this. There is a beautiful theme of life woven throughout the vlog. Keep up the great work!

[@matt_hayward]

Wow rocking the beamer. Bringing a bit of Portsea to warnambool! Merry Christmas ya bloody legend

[@qwazse4]

A lot of small towns in the US are like that. My mates from high school are tight. Maybe more so than when we were teens. I’m the outsider coming back every few years, and even though I’m not the best friend to them, they are more than that to me. We have some seriously good reunions. My wife’s hometown, on the other hand, is stone cold to her. She gets more affection from my high school friends. Small towns have their own culture, and they don’t always understand hospitality as they should.

[@user-km7hl2hh1g]

Beautiful home Willy, seems like you got a proper childhood! The bonds we forge when we are young last a lifetime. Although I share nothing in common with my friends from when I was a teen, I could still grab a beer with them and pick up right where we left off. Merry Christmas!

[@Bobskiboy85]

As an Aussie/Pom who has laid his roots down in Romania, the door is open for a beer or ten anytime mate if you are back this way... Merry Christmas champ.

[@tominoski2581]

Your an excellent interviewer and I love the channel. I moved a lot while growing up and have gone back to multiple places where I used to live and experienced the same thing. It really hurts deep inside and I feel for you bud. You just want to grab the old friend and say, don’t you remember everything we did and went through together, doesn’t it mean a thing to you, you don’t have a freaking minute to talk, have a drink? It’s really tough and I’m sorry your dealing with this. I hope your feeling better

[@ernarc23]

You are not alone, Willy. There are many who don't want to 'settle down' even into their 40s. Conventional life is not for everyone, even if you're not a Vet, but I do understand. My best friend in college was a vet -- also from Adelaide - and ended up w/a spinal cord injury that left him severely disabled, physically. I know he went through low periods, but certain friendships endure...through it all. Sounds like you a Lilly had a nice time at your home, together. Keep that going! 😊🌹

[@lolAnnMarie182]

Gosh I totally understand that feeling. Especially when it hits all at once. You’re not alone. Much love from America.

[@crewie94]

You're an amazing human Willy. There's a big community that love you outside of any home town. I respect everything you've done and you're certainly no Steve Stifler. 🖤

[@davidsmith-dz9jz]

I unfortunately have only found your ch in the last 3 months. In that short time, I feel you have given the world your absolute best of reporting the truth, especially from the people you have interviewed. I only wish I could come meet you in person to share a beer. Thank Sir you are gentlemen and scholar. Have a wonderful time with the family. I'm looking forward to future posts and hang in there. You are a champion!

[@Eli-Just-Eli]

I was gone for 10 yrs. Upon returning I realized not only had I lost touch with friends and loved ones, but reality as well, to an extent. Though advanced in things such as travel, and being outside of my comfort zone, Id failed to build a base to come home to. I had too much fun in my youth, and the vagabond lifestyle has left me with little. No excuses for me though, Ive had my fun. Merry Christmas Willy and thanks for sharing with us.

[@ianwigmore2675]

Willy, lots of wise advice from your viewers in comments. Life is millions of decisions points. As our experiences grow, travel more, see more, inevitably those back in home towns who made different decisions points will become distant. It’s not wrong or right goo or bad, it’s just life and it can be emotionally lonely. Through your videos and journalism you are an authentic person, be true to yourself first. And thank you Willy, as your insights allow others to reflect and keep life in balance.

[@joshualyons4121]

I felt his buddy, it happens to the best of us that move away. There are many reasons why it happens, both good and bad. The best path is eyes forward, keep writing new awesome pages in your book with the people who are in your life now. Much love from Canada.

[@carlt570]

Individuation often has times of painful process. Appreciate your candour. Cheers !

[@dr.fistus94]

thank you for sharing. that feeling when everyone is growing up and you do too but the realization strikes on one day. Its all good tho. Happens along the way. Stay save and merry christmas from germany willy.

[@willyOAM]

Thankyou so much legend, you worded it brilliantly

[@JMurfet]

Merry Christmas brother, I have felt exactly what you described in your video man. After being away from home and not returning pretty much ever while I was in the army, when I finally returned everyone had moved on, no one wanted to hang out and have a beer like we used to. Some didn't even return my messages or calls.. It really sucked. Still sucks to think about it. You're a good man willy, you wouldn't remember me but we crossed paths a few times during our respective army careers, I take my hat off to you for what you are achieving these days.

[@kiwinoz916]

Willy thankyou for sharing your trip home , beautiful property, take care

[@009Raines]

May God Bless You everyday Willy, you are a great person with a good spirit.

[@Nash432]

Welcome home Willy, and a very Merry Christmas.

[@ausrace]

Your experience reminds me of the Cold Chisel song 'Flame Trees' but in reverse - your old friends didn't show, so you didn't get to play "do you remember when" and get to see who could tell the biggest lies. But what you did learn is far more valuable than reminiscing about the past. Life moves on and you need to move on with it. Your true friends will share the journey.

[@rimedrihen6054]

Hey Willy, Merry christmas! Sorry to hear your trip did not go the way you expected. If you are happy with your path, don't bother with what other people think. You got a large community that will support you. I am in England, so if any time you are round this side of the world, you will have a pint or two on me. Big hug brother, all the best!

[@arthurcrime]

Beautiful place to grow up, you are indeed fortunate.

[@Jed74]

Merry Christmas mate, This is actually very normal, so don’t feel bad. I had the same issue going back home. The town moves on and grows and it’s never the same as the great memories you have. You are doing great things and it may be that your old mates might feel like they haven’t grown and moved forward in life if they are still in town doing the same old thing. You made the dog and your mum very happy, so keep going just for that, because nothing else really matters.

[@relentlezz]

My thoughts on your experience: - You were so excited driving home that I already felt half way through that you will get disappointed on some aspects. Because you seemed to have such good memories that it could have only gotten worse since then. - Reconnecting to childhood friends you haven't seen in a long time is always a gamble in my experience: Both of you have had a lot of different things happening in the meantime so synchronizing with them rarely happens. Probably because both of you went through the transformation of becoming an adult separately where a lot of life choices were made that might have set you on different trajectories. It's always wort trying though because if you do synchronize again it's even better than before because you so much more to share. - Meeting you might be hard for people because they don't know how to react to your illness and they rather want to avoid that awkwardness. - Or they have to reflect on their own life choices of staying in the same small town they grew up in while you went into the big wide world and had a serious amount of life changing experiences some of them they probably envy you for. So it's not you not growing up, on the contrary.

[@tonytravels2494]

Yes, yes you're right. Problems arise from mismatched expectations vs reality.

[@011CJ]

Your mom has a beautiful place I bet it was a fun place as a kit

[@PedroVonWorzelburger]

Life is a journey , always changing around us. From that we gain wisdom and hopefully become better people.... thats life!

[@underabigsky]

Willy, tell use about that sweet rig in the background! It was brave to venture home, you clearly are very brave!

[@joanirogers6950]

Thank you for sharing. Merry Christmas ! Life is a journey, and it’s different for everyone, so enjoy it! God bless you!

[@BluesStraightFromTheHarp]

Loved all that you’ve done. Welcome home Willy, welcome home!

[@MyNameIsJ3ffrey]

Thanks for sharing your story. A lot of us are in a similar chapter in our lives.

[@riding_with_rob]

Sorry to hear ya time at home wasn't what you had hoped, the first time you go home after being away is always different. Your right, ya gotta be there for ya mates. You know your good mates when you haven't spoken in months or years but you can pick up the conversation straight away like you just spoke yesterday. First time I went home for an extended period after being away I felt like I had outgrown the shower! haha. This is who you are now, in two years from now that is who you will be then. Keep doin what your doin.

[@blueballedbilly6637]

This is something everyone your age goes through, people get older and move apart in life, I had like 15 friends in high school and by the time i hit 35, I speak to 2 still, its no ill will, or anger, but we are all in different places and have different priorities, some have had kids and some play league of legends 16 hours a day, and everything in between. The good news is "the boys" are an always evolving organism lol, mates come and go, I have plenty of new friends, I made them in the army, security, travel, online watching hockey streams even, some of my absolute closest friends are guys ive met less than 2 years ago now, also youve been busy the last few years it looks, i cant speak to australia or your part of it, but here in canada, covid made people weird and shut in

[@ianxr650r]

You must have your footage on mirror image because you would never drive and talk on a phone. Merry Christmas and a happy new year brother.

[@danielericson5389]

If you can't seem to lean on your friends then lean on your family. Happy holidays Willy and well wishes from the Pacific Northwest

[@elsestelema6273]

You are not doing the wrong thing! You do what you do best and we all thank you for it. ( home is where I lay my head) D Wishing you a merry Christmas and all the best for 2023 💕💕💕

[@LeaKjeldsen]

I do follow you, meaning I understand. - Incredible how we are able to hołd on to places, and situations like they would never change. But they do change. Dear Mr. Willy we who are listening/watching you are now part of your life. And Home is where you are, with your dear Lily. Moving forward….

[@semps.338]

Hey Willy, great vlog. I went back home to Newcastle on the motorbike a few weeks ago, to catch up with Matty Morris at Zero Limits. I didn't try to catch up with any old mates (many have moved on like did as well), I instead rode around to so many key areas and enjoyed the memories immensely. The place was beautiful and the coastline the same. I rode past my old schools like you did, and just soaked it all in....so many memories everywhere I rode to. People change so much, especially in contrast with their ages now as opposed to back when we were carefree teens and early 20's. We have been blessed to travel the globe and experience so much, and as such, are completely different people as well. The memories will always be the only constant...as in reality, the only constant is change. Im keen to move back to Newy, I felt an amazing connection with the geographical area...but nothing really with those I used to know there. Really identified with your post, thanks mate and merry xmas. Semps👊👊👊

[@phillipswain4942]

Willie, I have lived in so many different places in my life and have had the same experience with my old friend's. No worries those people grown and followed their own path in life as we all do. Sometimes you have those rare friendships where time and distance never change the relationship.