Becoming a Storyteller
Defining “big adventures” and “small adventures”
“Traveling — It leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” — Ibn Batutta
I’ve been left speechless more times than I can count and look at me now — I’m becoming a storyteller. Like all good stories there are struggles, epiphanies, laughter, and lots of lessons learned.
I think some background is in order before I start my storytelling: Hi. I’m Leana. I look at life as one big adventure meant to be lived to its fullest. And I believe everything should be tried at least once — especially if it scares you. I’m a perpetual optimist who prepares like a very pragmatic realist. I’ve had the privilege of exploring over 40 countries and learning from every single place and every person I have met along the way. Despite loving travel and exploration more than (almost) anything, my size has been a constant struggle in my travels.
Yes, I do mean size more than just weight. Although I am severely overweight (no — I will not be sharing how much I weigh), I’m also 6 feet tall and have shoulders like a line-backer. Even at a “normal” weight, economy airline seats would never be my friend. How am I supposed to fit my 34inch legs behind an economy row seat?! Well, I always make it work…but, I digress.
As of today, I’ve joined a challenge to Blog My Own Book in a month. I’m hoping this encourages the storyteller in me to share my adventures — and everything I’ve learned along the way — with you.
What is adventure?
According to Merriam-Webster, adventure can be “an undertaking involving danger and unknown risks” — what I call “big adventures”. Or it can be defined as “an exciting or remarkable experience” — what I like to call “small adventures”.
I make it a point to go on at least two “big adventures” a year. I plan and save up, and whenever I’m told ‘no’ because of my size or weight, I keep working until I find a way. To me, big adventures can completely change you and your outlook on life. They can reaffirm your courage, take your breath away, and awaken all your senses. Big adventures are trips and experiences that take you far out of your comfort zone like visiting a country where you don’t speak the language, snorkeling with sharks, or jumping off a bridge. Big adventures can reshape you, change how others view you, and remind you that you really can do anything.
“Small adventures” are not as extreme, but they are just as important. These small adventures can re-set your soul and wash away the dust of routine without taking you away from your current life. To me, small adventures are what make everyday life interesting. When I was younger, I would mark weeks by something interesting that happened or a small adventure I’d take with my parents. Those small adventures, like going apple picking or to the beach for a bonfire, are still some of my fondest ‘everyday’ memories.
I think I still like to mark my weeks with small adventures.
Now, my small adventures include visiting local farmer’s markets, finding local festivals like Holi (pictured above), taking scenic drives, or even going wine tasting.
When was the last time you did something for the first time?
To me, that’s what big adventures are all about — doing something (big or small) for the very first time. I mentioned earlier that I believe everything is worth trying at least once, so that means I expect to have a lifetime of firsts.
My personal answer to the question above is: today. With my first ever blog post.
When was the last time YOU did something for the first time? If you honestly don’t know, or it was so long ago you are counting the weeks or months in your head, that’s too long. I encourage you to try something new this week. Start small and see how you feel.
I bet you will feel amazing.
And, hey, maybe by next year you’ll be going snorkeling in Antarctica with me…
Keep an eye out for more. I’ll be posting many more stories of adventure and what I’ve learned on my travels as a plus-sized woman.
