Absolute Candor: A Memorable Hot Spring Conversation
I met Brett on Labor Day at Buckeye Hot Springs. As it normally does – especially in natural settings like this – the topic of my nomad life came up. Brett lives in Reno with his wife and four kids, and was escaping out into some nature for the long weekend. Like so many folks living within the confines of modern societal expectations, he said something many people have told me in the past 3 months: "Man, I'm so envious of your life."
Normally, this is where my response would soften the blow. Intentionally dull the jealousy a bit. I'd shape my reply to consider the person's feelings, and downplay how incredible my time out here has been. I'd speak in half-truths and vagaries. I'd insist there are hardships, there are drawbacks. That this lifestyle absolutely comes with sacrifices which may not be worth it.
But I am gradually introducing a bit more "Absolute Candor" into my conversations. And my response surprised me as it was coming out of my mouth.
I'm paraphrasing (which I hate doing because fictional or reconstructed dialogue always sounds forced and non-authentic) but it went something like this:
"Brett," I said, "not sure it's what you wanna hear, but I love this life. It's the most at peace I've ever felt. Yea, there are some challenges, but they aren't remotely steep enough for me to talk anyone out of doing this. Or at least trying it. The freedom is so intoxicating, man! I feel completely unburdened which is a brand new experience for me. It's just awesome to essentially live in nature and feel like every day is a new adventure."
Then, also like many others have mentioned at some point in conversations similar to this one, the "countdown timer" was introduced.
"Seven years" he said with a wistful smile. "In seven years the kids will hopefully be out of the house, and we're going to chase that life, even if it's only for a year."
Brett, I sincerely hope that by September 2033 you and your wife are calling yourselves nomads. Even if it doesn't stick, I hope it's the best, most memorable year of your life.
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