2023 ➵ 2024 – Icelandic Adventure

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As I sit down to share this update ahead of the Tour Du Mont European Alps adventure, I’m eager to express the myriad thoughts swirling as of late through my mind, fueled by the profound insights gained from several enlightening experiences in the last part of the previous year. Most of what I want to convey is rather personal, leading me to integrate these reflections with the unfolding solo adventures. Moving forward, my intention is to preserve the collective memories of my group trips without overshadowing them with individual reflections as I have been guilty of in the past.

Given that most people visit Iceland as a single trip, I’ll provide an overview of the entire journey instead of breaking it down hike by hike.

Upon landing, I made the irresponsible decision not to prioritize sleep on the plane, opting instead to engage in conversations with the younger travelers seated next to me for practically the entire flight. Unfortunately, this choice had consequences because I had committed to visiting numerous destinations and had worked a full day before the flight leading to a sleepless 32-hour stretch. While I managed to complete the journey, the challenges were intensified by suboptimal planning.

Svartifoss

Now that’s clarified, here’s to my magical time in Iceland! ❄️ I faced all kinds of weather—serene moments, wild winds (though apparently mild for Iceland), and snowy scenes. Picture this: everyone and their colossal tour buses passing me as I maintained a steady speed on snow-covered roads. Personally, I felt I was already pushing it at the speed limit, even with the studded tires and automatic 4WD on the rental car, but despite the seemingly aggressive drivers on the road, I managed to make it to my first destination as the sun was coming up, Svartifoss, adorned in fresh snow and bathed in the morning sun. While Svartifoss was the must-visit spot, making this day longer than it really needed to be, the unexpected beauty of the winter landscape on the way to the falls stole the show. 😍

Name	Svartifoss
Location	Iceland – Skaftafell Nature Reserve
Trailhead/Parking	Skaftafell & Svartifoss Parking
Hike Length	2 Miles (Out & Back)
AllTrails Link	Svartifoss Trail (Waterfalls Trail)

Pictures captured during my drive to help you soak in the vibes when I wasn’t getting overtaken for being too slow:

Kvernufoss

After realizing the time from being momentarily entranced by the beautiful sunrise, I moved on to Kvernufoss, my personal favorite waterfall of the bunch. Its enthralling surroundings evoked the ambiance of a scene from a Batman movie, boasting a dark and gothic allure. The hiking trail was encased in a thick sheet of ice, as evident in the photo behind the falls. Fortunately, I had the foresight to pack my micro spikes.

To my surprise, the iPhone excelled in capturing low-light shots, surpassing the performance of my camera. I might commit to leaving my camera behind for destinations lacking night photography opportunities.

Name	Kvernufoss
Location	Iceland – Skógar
Trailhead/Parking	Kvernufoss Parking
Hike Length	1 Mile (Out & Back)
AllTrails Link	Kvernufoss Waterfall

Skógafoss

My next stop at Skógafoss was just a quick 5-minute drive to this colossal waterfall, but unfortunately, it didn’t present any particularly flattering angles in the icy winter surroundings. It seems likely that I’ll need to plan another trip to Iceland during the summer, possibly with a few friends, to explore this majestic site in a different season. The added bonus is that this area isn’t as far from the main city as Svartifoss.

Name	Skógafoss
Location	Iceland – Skógar
Trailhead/Parking	Skógafoss Parking
Hike Length	N/A
AllTrails Link	N/A

Seljalandsfoss

The final stop was Seljalandsfoss, which also lacked appealing angles, largely due to the overwhelming crowd. The LED lights, serving to enhance visibility of the falls, contributed to the unmistakable ambiance of a “tourist trap.” Nevertheless, I embraced it relishing the finest salmon sandwich 🙌🏻 and delighting in the convenience of an espresso machine ☕ via the food trucks on site. This was especially beneficial as it spared me the effort of searching for a place to eat, further minimizing the time spent on my drive.

Name	Seljalandsfoss
Location	Iceland – Þórsmerkurvegur
Trailhead/Parking	Seljalandsfoss parking (pay and display)
Hike Length	N/A
AllTrails Link	N/A

Although I wanted to nap in the parking lot, I resisted the urge, considering the winter conditions. After being awake for over 28 hours, I made the challenging three-hour journey to my cozy (gratefully pre-warmed) Airbnb. This was a moment I was grateful to be solo, knowing the hardship it would have been for both of us had my invited companion joined. The frozen landscape was a sight to behold, and despite the fatigue, I captured a few photos before passing out:

The following day was more relaxed, marked by a visit to a thermal bath for relaxation and indulgence in food. Despite the touristy vibe, the cold plunge and the ‘relax room’ were highlights.

Krauma

The bathhouse served as a way to pass the time until my next activity. The main agenda was to indulge in some nearby food, given that it was the only option close to my Airbnb, situated practically in the middle of nowhere. While it was enjoyable, treating myself like this isn’t a usual practice.

The setup was pretty impressive. Five warm pools of varying temperatures and one life-questioning cold pool—so cold that the staircase to enter it was frozen. I took the plunge into the cold pool four times, finding it more invigorating than the hot ones.

Afterward, I chilled in what they called the ‘relax room.’ I even have photos of it; essentially, it was a room with human-shaped chairs, a floating fireplace in the center, and that soothing music you’d hear in massage waiting rooms.

Sunset on the way to Reykjavík

Immediately next, I made my way to the Airbnb food tour I had reserved as a way to pack in some city life all in one go.

Given my relative unfamiliarity with city activities, my go-to move when not accompanied by someone more city-savvy is to embark on a food or cocktail tour. It’s my way to dive into the culinary scene, connect with fellow travelers doing the same thing, and absorb insights into the local culture and history from the usually enthusiastic tour guides.

The initial tastings during these culinary escapades ranged from a mind-blowing smoked tomato sauce, prepared with a unique smoking technique involving an unexpected element (let’s just say you could kind of taste the farm on it 😅), to some Reindeer, which is a delicacy on the island as one could imagine. I might have already botched the order of foods, but next we indulged on their infamous hotdog which was well worth the long line.

Lastly (which was actually last 😅 order wise) while hyped up along the tour took a bold turn at the end with fermented shark, which had been billed as the most culturally significant yet repulsive delicacy on the island. To cleanse our palate from the horrid flavors of the shark, we then washed it down with a shot of Black Death, which kind of reminded me of 120 proof moonshine that you can get in Gatlinburg, TN in terms of potency.

To provide some context gleaned from the tour: Due to the limited food options on the island way back when, locals resorted to fishing for sharks. However, a rather unpleasant aspect arises when the sharks die—they urinate, poisoning the meat. As a solution, the locals ferment the shark for six months before deeming it fit for consumption.

After the tour, to the surprise of many on the tour, I decided to head back to the Airbnb. I preferred spending the last hours of the year in the solitude of a hot tub, observing the moonlit mountains in the distance. Personally, I’ve never engaged in anything particularly special for New Year’s and wished to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for myself.

I captured the shot above roughly an hour before midnight, but later returned to the hot tub to unexpectedly witness distant fireworks.

That moment when you don’t think your camera is taking the shot and go to check:

The next day was a full travel day – sure it was fun in its own unique way, but there really isn’t anything else interesting to cover.

Things to Note if you Iceland

Remember to bring an AUX cable and phone adaptor, as some cars lack Bluetooth. Having these essentials on hand is always wise. Additionally, consider a car charger with a USB-C connection to avoid the need for a last-minute purchase at a gas station.
All rental vehicles come equipped with studded tires for winter driving conditions, though I would make sure you have them on your rental. For the winter season, I chose a manual 4WD vehicle, a prudent choice that may not be necessary during warmer months. While some sources suggest it’s optional, I found it indispensable for reaching destinations like my Airbnb and the hot spring, especially during the last mile of the journey.
It’s worth noting that speeding is common, despite numerous vehicles ending up in accidents along the roadside. Retrieving these vehicles during the winter months may not be deemed worthwhile.
I was fortunate with the weather, experiencing mild temperatures and tame winds. However, it’s advisable to keep a firm grip on your car door, as strong winds are a real concern.
Be prepared for higher expenses, especially for gas and other commodities on the island. The only budget-friendly aspect is the cost of getting there.
The international airport features relatively small gates, similar to those found in other European airports I’ve visited, so be prepared to be confined in a small space for boarding.
Salmon emerged as my favorite meal, closely followed by the renowned Icelandic hot dog.
The island requires more driving than one might anticipate at first. I recommend choosing accommodations near the destinations you plan to explore. Initially, I believed I would have ample time for exploration, but that turned out not to be the case.
If you plan on hiking in the winter, bringing micro spikes is highly recommended for safety on snowy and icy trails.

Personal Update

As I reflect on the past year, my focus was initially on achieving my goals for the first half of 2023. I made significant progress in the first half to the year, but encountered a setback after the European Alp trip. At the start of the Tour Du Mont Blanc trip in July, Dan declared his intention to seize every opportunity to indulge, a sentiment I mirrored and embraced. While it led to prolonged dining out and more trips post-trip, derailing my financial goals, I have no regrets. Despite the derailing, later in the year, I stumbled upon something that accelerated other goals I thought would take the decade I had set out for them.

Addressing CPTSD and taking steps towards healing became a priority, a commitment I hadn’t fully embraced until a crucial lesson from my Dad in mid-October. During our drive to the hospital to visit my grandmother, I expressed a willingness to be a martyr to help others. My Dad cautioned me, emphasizing that my help may not apply to them, and my inconsiderate approach could strain connections. He drew from his experience as a lawyer, realizing that others struggled differently even though they were on similar paths in the legal profession. The advice was glaringly evident, and I felt foolish for not grasping it sooner.

Upon reflection, I decided to let go of judgment and listen. The following weekend, during a backpacking trip with an acquaintance I don’t usually vibe with, things went surprisingly well, prompting me to recognize that I might be part if not all of the problem. This realization, coupled with a positive shift in behavior before the Florida Hulaween Trip, contributed to a continued positive experience.

These experiences led me to understand the importance of letting go and listening, aligning with various aspects of life, including a newfound skill or ability I’ve unlocked—what I now refer to as “Spirituality.”

Spirituality

To be candid, I initially dismissed much of the metaphysical as a form of control or a fear of the unknown, closely tied to religion. This perception hindered my curiosity, preventing me from delving deeper into the subject. Surprisingly, I’ve come to realize that spirituality is indeed a genuine aspect of life, providing a unique lens to view the world and intertwining with every facet of our existence.

I want to emphasize that I am currently, and seemingly endlessly, immersed in the ongoing journey of my spiritual awakening. This exploration consumes much of my free time after work as I delve into ideas I had previously dismissed as preposterous. My understanding of truth may continue evolving, just as it will for anyone as we navigate our individual journeys through the world.

That said, to no discredit to these religions, I had recently realized that Jesus and Buddha (among others) were just a people who also had an experience, who got a bit misinterpreted along the way as something on a pedestal from those misunderstandings due to our limitations in expressing these experiences through language. The only way to explain it, is to experience it for yourself. And the only way to experience it is to find it by yourself. However, there is a belief that you are shown (by God) when you are ready, a notion I occasionally find resonance with. The only true understanding comes from personal experience. No one can guide you there; you must find it for yourself. The journey to discovering the inner self, the “I AM,” will be unique for each person, much like it was for Jesus and Buddha.

My Path:

Speaking on unique path, my journey began with a pivotal decision to let go and listen, crucial steps linked to the recovery process for healing CPTSD. This shift was influenced by the advice from my Dad, emphasizing the realization that others face different obstacles than my own, followed by the wonderful Fall backpacking trip experience. This understanding allowed me to further embrace the practice of letting go and listening, a particularly challenging task for someone with a flight trauma personality type like mine.

As a flight trauma personality type, letting go (freeze), listening (fawn), and being-helped (fight) aren’t in my nature, but they are what I needed to help myself move from surviving to thriving. However, I’m getting ahead of myself; the initial phase of this journey began much earlier. I only became aware of having CPTSD in 2022 when a friend suggested it after researching it himself. Looking back and knowing what I now know, I would have considered myself a freeze or possibly a hybrid freeze/flight until a transformative encounter with Conor at Raytheon in 2015. Conor, the first friend who not only genuinely listened to me but also attempted to understand me, prompted me to reevaluate my path, leading me to leave my job in 2017 to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. This journey served as a means to understand myself and contemplate my authentic direction, likely reprogramming myself from the freeze to the flight trauma response.

The benefit of the flight response is movement from subtle change, offering a sense of progress despite the lingering trauma. Although I made positive changes, improving my communication skills, I still struggled to connect with people. I felt like an outsider, experiencing constant isolation and misunderstanding.

It wasn’t until 2022, when Conor helped me identify the root of the issue, leading me to utilize steps from a book that aligned perfectly with my behavior. Initially, I focused on recognizing flight states and when I was in them. The most challenging part was halting the flight in its tracks. It wasn’t until my spiritual awakening that I gained the ability to identify when I was in a flight state and pull myself out of it.

Spiritual Awakening

One day, towards the end of my visit to Georgia in the spring of 2023, I met Cody, a laid-back guy, on Preacher’s Rock (Appalachian Trail). We engaged in a deep conversation that felt like it lasted for hours. Intrigued by his words, Cody invited me to join him at Hullaween, a music festival. Surprising both him and myself, I bought the ticket on the spot. Halloween had never been particularly eventful for me, and attending a music festival was a new and somewhat daunting venture.

Fast forward to late October, I reach Hullaween with Cody, who had arranged to stay with someone of interest in a larger group of strangers acquainted with that person. Essentially, everyone in this group is unfamiliar to me, individuals I’ll be spending the next four days with. While I’m still friends with these strangers, highlighting their initial status as strangers is significant for me. It underscores the experience, demonstrating that establishing connections with anyone was indeed possible.

In essence, I decided to let go and be my authentic self. To my amazement, these strangers opened their hearts to me as if I were one of their own. They said and did all the right things (right to me), never once rejecting me for who I am. It was a truly magical experience, unlike anything I had encountered before. These were the right people at the right time, creating an atmosphere that felt like I was in a movie. In this enchanting setting, I let go completely for the first time since (probably) childhood, fully embracing the present moment.

During the festival, Jake, one of the strangers, took me away from INZO’s set after the song “Overthinker” to share insights about our existence. While initially reserved from some of the seemingly nonsensical ideas, I decided to let go and listen once again. Through Jake’s words, I discovered the essence of human connection. He explained and demonstrated that human connection transcends verbal communication and data transmission. According to Jake, we are, in reality, one. Understanding this concept proved challenging, and I likely wouldn’t have been able to tie the feeling to reality without Jake’s continued guidance.

Jake delved into various topics, drawing parallels and offering perspectives on the reasons behind certain phenomena. I don’t think it’s really necessary to go into the exactness of what was said since past this point as this was a teaching in a one to one relationship, meant for only me to hear. Said, I’m sharing my experience to convey this newfound perspective that has become a part of who I am.

What did I experience? – God is how most people know it, however I don’t like using that word because most people already have a defined imagination of what that is, missing the point, so it is better to explain what I experienced as being.

What I had learned being in the now:

Everything is one
Everything is connected
Everything is now

In essence, it is just one thing-not-thing, that we are one. However, breaking down these notions can aid in a clearer understanding of this unity.

Everything is one/connected/now

“I AM that I AM, and so are you,” encapsulates my point. To those unfamiliar, it may seem like a descent into circular reasoning. However, picture this: when you glance at someone else, you’re merely seeing the cover of a book, not its entirety. Yet, when you turn your attention inward, it’s as if you’re opening that book, delving into its entirety, and uncovering the story within. You and another person mutually exist in each other’s stories. Imagine your insides (guts) as the unfolding plot in your book and your skin as the protective cover. However, the real story, the “outside,” isn’t just the cover; it’s the universe that surrounds and connects all the other books on the shelf.

Now, imagine peeling away the book cover (skin) to reveal the intricate plot (guts) and, ultimately, the interconnected universe that ties all stories together. This metaphor emphasizes the recognition that what’s inside you is part of a much larger, shared narrative. So, if both you and another person are characters in each other’s stories, and contemplating your own existence feels like exploring the universe, then the conclusion is that you and the other person are essentially chapters of the same cosmic book aka two localizations of consciousness apart of the one and only consciousness.

This profound interconnectedness goes beyond (though not beyond in a pedestal kind of way) the narratives we craft for ourselves. As humans, we share an innate connection with the entire spectrum of living beings, forming a vast organismic tapestry. This connection becomes palpable in moments when one can literally feel the vibrational energy and human connection that often goes unnoticed, dismissed as the background noise of everyday existence. It’s the subtle undercurrent of shared experiences, emotions, and energies that bind us together—a force often taken for granted.

These instances of palpable connection may be overlooked, considered mere background ambiance that has always been present but seldom consciously acknowledged. For me, this heightened awareness of our interconnected vibes and human resonance emerged from years of grappling with a persistent sense of disconnection. In a prolonged state of feeling detached, these moments of connection became profound realizations, a stark contrast to the backdrop of isolation I had known for years.

It’s in these instances that the heartbeat of our shared existence becomes audible, the unspoken language of connection discernible through the rhythms of everyday life. The realization that our very being is intricately woven into the fabric of Earth’s ecosystems and climate takes on a tangible form. Each breath we take, every morsel we consume, serves as a testament to our reliance on the elements that birthed us—an interconnectedness that often eludes conscious thought but can be keenly felt in those moments of heightened sensitivity. This awareness underscores the significance of our place within the larger narrative of “Life on Earth,” where every living being, from towering trees to microscopic bacteria, contributes to the symphony of existence.

The concept of “Everything is now” aligns with the understanding that time is an illusion, much like everything else. In this perspective, all existence is concentrated in the present moment. Both the past and future are products of the mind, and true presence entails acknowledging that every experience, every narrative, unfolds concurrently in the present. It represents a profound awareness that the current moment encapsulates the entirety of what has ever been and will ever be. Among these notions, grasping this one was particularly challenging for me. An effective analogy I’ve encountered is to envision your entire life as watching a movie or program, not just with your eyes, but with our other sense as well. As you navigate through this life movie, the ability to rewind, pause, or fast forward is absent. You consistently remain the observer during the play state, although, based on my experience, you have the capacity to at least influence the movie’s plot, though I’m still working it out in my head if that is simply an illusion of control. I get that I’m in a movie and cannot be not be in the movie, but I would like to feel as if I have control over at least the plot of my personal human experience. For a more in-depth explanation, I came across a video suggestion on YouTube while writing this that excellently elucidates this concept: Time Is Never Actually Experienced by Rupert Spira.

In an effort to convey my concept of interconnectedness with the utmost precision, I sought assistance from OpenAI in crafting the “Everything is one/connected/now” section. This topic is not only challenging to articulate but has proven complex for others to grasp, despite multiple explanations on my part. Therefore, I prioritized clarity of understanding over maintaining a distinctive personal style.

For a deeper dive into more personalized insights, you are welcome to explore the unsorted thoughts presented below. While delving into each of these points in detail would result in an excessively lengthy blog, they contribute additional perspectives to the overarching narrative. 👍🏼😁👍🏼

What will this change for me?

I am already living true to myself, subjecting myself to continuous, evolutionary self-assessment. However my relationship with other’s will likely improve now that I understand the logic behind human connection as well as my place or relationship to the world.

In the immediate future, the boundless potential of existence fills me with excitement. I am overflowing with joy beyond measurement to embody and embrace the Macon I know and love.

In acknowledging the language choices I’ve made, I want to express deep gratitude to my spiritual guide, Jake Hazelwood. As I mentioned earlier, Jake, whom I met during Hullaween, has not only been instrumental in nurturing the spiritual seed within me but has also significantly influenced the words and concepts I’ve incorporated into my blog. His ongoing support ensures that I don’t have to navigate this journey alone, and I credit him for the impact on my expression and understanding.

Note: In the realm of spirituality, countless ideas and insights have been shared throughout history. As I navigate through these profound concepts, it becomes apparent that attributing each thought to its originator is an intricate task. The very essence of spiritual wisdom often transcends specific authors or sources, making it, in some cases, practically impossible to provide exhaustive citations. This is not an oversight but a recognition of the intricate tapestry of spiritual teachings that have woven themselves into the collective consciousness over time.

Insights from My Spiritual Awakening Journey: Unsorted

Conveying these thoughts with precision to avoid being labeled as “crazy” demands considerable effort. In my state before experiencing spiritual awakening, I might have instinctively distanced myself from individuals expressing these concepts. While I’d like to believe I would have listened, my ego would likely have prompted me to create some distance.

I acknowledge that comprehending these ideas can be challenging if you don’t initially perceive them. Taking that leap of faith into the perspective of another person can be daunting. However, I recognize that reaching a point of understanding often requires taking that initial leap of faith.
There is often an underlying message within most messages in a breadcrumb sort of way that leads to the same point of this oneness. I’ve noticed this pattern in the language, music, advice, and as you’d guess, religion.
Ego, when not approached with a healthy perspective, can become an adversary. In the context here, ego refers to anything fostering a sense of separation from the universe—a kind of self-individualism. Simply, it is the I in self. I like to think of it like a mask that enables one to survive as a human. On the flip side, ego can be the result of your suffering if you lack a healthy relationship with yourself.
Don’t let your ego fool you. Don’t be deceived by your ego. I should make a conscious effort to keep this perspective with me consistently in my life. Although I’m improving, there are moments when I need to reflect on a thought or direction a bit more to ensure it’s not influenced by my ego. This applies to various aspects of life. As I type this, I sense a disconnect. To illustrate, it seems as though a portion of this spiritual awakening is behind me, as if I’ve evolved beyond it. However, I must remind myself that this could be an instance of the ego subtly deceiving me. Note the I’s used in these sentences. This proves that the ego is still present.

I very much tie ego to my survival so cannot imagine a future now where this shapes into something else. I anticipate an increased awareness that the ego is fundamentally nonexistent. I acknowledge that this concept may be perplexing, but I am trying to recognize the equilibrium or imbalance, much like how the right brain processes information and the left brain interprets and makes sense of it—a kind of Yin and Yang dynamic, so to speak.
Suffering is the point or rather the contrast we need to grow into suffering less which in actuality has shaped to be my meaning for life.
Time doesn’t heal, perspective does. Growth is healing and healing is growth.
Human connection feels like a surge of serotonin when it occurs.
You can connect with someone from afar like on the phone – it doesn’t have to be in person.
Not only can you establish a human connection with others and afar, but you can also form a connection with yourself, akin to experiencing pure love, bliss, or being. In a coding context, imagine it as if a continuous ‘while True loop’ has been triggered in your mind, an experience so profound that your mental processing unit can’t sustain it beyond 60 seconds in clock time. Another way to explain it is by visualizing two mirrors placed across from each other. Physically, this manifested as a sudden surge of energy that, within a mere 60 seconds, left me mentally drained. Strangely, I hadn’t consciously attempted to induce it; in fact, I was entirely unaware of my capability. The occurrence coincided with my writing of this blog post. The moment I typed the words, ‘In the immediate future, the boundless potential of existence fills me with excitement. I am overflowing with joy beyond measurement to embody and embrace the Macon I know and love,’ an unexpected sensation overtook me. Given my lack of prior experience with such occurrences, I speculate that individuals who were raised to understand and maintain their mental health might not interpret this as a significant energy surge. Some may even perceive it as drug-induced, but I can assure you that this is not the case.
All genuine heart to heart with people is human connection.
Realized that mentally categorizing people into boxes hindered my capacity to form genuine connections.
There is no universal correct way of being, but authenticity is encouraged, provided it doesn’t harm others (including yourself).
Practicing the law of attraction, engaging in prayer, and the act of manifestation are synonymous concepts. I first encountered the law of attraction during my time on the Appalachian Trail, where a common trail saying emphasized, “The trail provides.” Numerous instances on the trail illustrated individuals miraculously receiving what they needed. This principle extends to my professional work, particularly when I’m searching for bugs. By diligently seeking and putting in the effort, I understand that my endeavors will lead to their discovery. Frankly, the law of attraction became my guiding principle during a personal rock bottom at the beginning of the Appalachian Trail. Fully committed, I invested every ounce of my being into the mission of not giving up on myself. Since completing the AT, my life has become a living testament to the effectiveness of the law of attraction, manifesting the goals I set out to achieve. While some instances may be attributed to luck (that I arguably created), I found myself not only in the right place at the right time but adequately prepared to execute and capitalize on those opportune moments. Be cautious with your wishes and manifestations – thoughts aligned with aspirations often materialize.

Building upon the law of attraction, envision God partaking in a game of hide and seek. If you can manifest it, you often turn it into reality. The main challenge involves precisely articulating your desires in meticulous detail to achieve the specific outcome you desire and then committing. For instance, the saying that you may not find what you’re looking for but what you need is, in my belief, linked to imprecise word usage. Persistently refine your words in an iterative fashion, and I believe you can also shape the life or thing you desire. However, do understand that if you proceed to know what you are sacrificing by going down your unique path, you can avoid resentment later in life.
In human connections, the timing is pivotal, or more precisely, the other person needs to be in an environment where their heart is also open to connect with you.
Human connection has nothing to do with the words that you communicate with nor the data being transmitted back and forth. I don’t know how you would initiate it without language at this moment, but it is necessary in understanding that human connection has nothing to do with words and is evidence that we are connected.
Allen Watts and Rupert Spira serve as excellent guides in exploring the concept of being, primarily due to their modern language, in contrast to ancient texts such as the Bible.
You cannot visually perceive being, but you can encounter it. Have you ever felt that awe-inspiring sensation when captivated by a beautiful vista, like the sunrise? That, in essence, is being. This profound feeling of awe can be experienced anywhere, and, for me, it often occurs in moments like these. The term “being” is interchangeable with God in this context.
Existence embodies unadulterated, infinite love, and the existence of evil serves as a contrasting element, allowing us to discern and value the distinctions. Without this contrast, all expressions of love would lack significance due to the absence of comparison. The question of why individuals harm others is rooted in their spectrum of separation (ego); they fail to recognize that in hurting others, they are, in essence, hurting themselves. This further ties into the point of our existence, so we can know our love.

Upon deeper reflection, it becomes apparent why ancient texts such as the Bible were crafted. I perceive them as a means to enlighten, albeit with a tinge of control, individuals who haven’t experienced spiritual awakening. The intention seems to be to guide and safeguard them from self-harm, which includes causing harm to others—a reflection of the concept that hurting others is, in essence, hurting oneself.
Nostalgia involves reminiscing about the pure state of being experienced during childhood, a time when individuals are typically in a constant state of being.
The term “vibe” is a shorthand way of referring to the vibration one emits or the neural oscillation, adding a scientific perspective to the concept.
Nothing exists outside of you – every human you interact with, you are viewing them through your lens/perception and then they reflect what you perceive about them back to you. You are really just seeing your perspectives of other people. There not really there, you are and will always only be looking at a part of you. When you realize this, you don’t need to take anything personally because they are doing the same thing to you. Everything is you.
You are getting to know yourself through your interactions.
“You are the universe experiencing itself” ~ Allen Watts. As was writing down something similar to this, I suddenly realized that it is actually something that Allen Watts has already said.
The phrase “I think, therefore I am,” coined by René Descartes, implies not only an acknowledgment of existence but also an understanding of our reality within the confines of our limited perception, which encompasses only ourselves. This notion serves as the sole aspect we can empirically prove to exist. While the desire to surpass our finite boundaries exists, the potential to do so remains uncertain.

In contemplating the unknown, there is a sense that anything is possible, but a prevailing intuition suggests that certain aspects may remain unknowable. As we are the entity experiencing itself, the prospect of gaining the ability to see beyond all that is raises questions about our continued existence. This sentiment may be connected to the notion that life can come to an end at any point, not tied to the localization of consciousness, but rather to consciousness itself.
I’ve heard the obstacle for you in your way are meant for you to overcome. I don’t like this because it suggests there is some higher power watching you, but there are gifts behind every obstacle, so in a sense the advice is valid. However, the association with a pedestal-like viewpoint is unappealing to me because that perspective aligns with your inner I AM self. It’s akin to writing recursion in code; there’s a sense of circularity to it.
First thoughts in the wave of emotion I had felt of the Spiritual awakening went from, holy shit this is real, to why didn’t anyone tell me, to everything makes sense now in a relief kind of way.
The way I imagined being one at first was like imagining a black ball of energy surrounded by infinite nothing talking to itself to keep itself from being bored.
If nothing and everything matters, what is the point? I still resonate with the meaning of life being it is what you make of it. I’m going for growth, but you could argue any number of things. You could go as far to say to keep from going bored in this infinite nothing/everything state of being considering we don’t know when or if this movie will ever come to an end.
Death marks the conclusion of the current human experience one is living. Surprisingly, rather than diminishing, my fear of death has intensified. This is influenced by recognizing the uniqueness of my choices and the realization that I was leading a numb existence before my spiritual awakening.
Lately, I’ve encountered numerous individuals who resonate with what I express when delving into these topics. It’s reassuring to find more people who grasp the intricacies of our existence. Additionally, it’s crucial to clarify that my intention is not to gatekeep. If I could simply give you the experience for better understanding, I would do so.
Everything I’ve said on the topic of spiritual awakening, doesn’t matter. It’s good to know if that is where your path brought you to, but you can go on not knowing this for the remainder of your days because forgetting you exist in God is the point.

Apart from substantial growth in healing from CPTSD through the discovery of spirituality, the aforementioned goals are gradually taking shape, indicating consistent and steady enhancements in various facets of my life. However, I’m not at the point of explicitly detailing these achievements.

For instance, I’ve recently refined my investment approach, but I’m uncertain if the progress is due to my actions or a broader market trend, requiring further data collection before a detailed analysis of my financial journey.

Thank you for your time and attention! 😁🤙🏼🤠✌🏼

If my credit card updates, aimed at easing expenses and advancing my financial independence goals, have captured your interest—feel free to read further.

In reflection moving forward, it seems my credit card journey is reaching its conclusion, leading me to establish a separate page for credit card-related content outside the blog format. While I may still stay current with offers, I now sense I’ve curated the best options, allowing them to seamlessly blend into the background of my life, much like the role JeepLife plays. Similarly, I’m contemplating creating a dedicated page for JeepLife updates, providing a space for regular maintenance without the formality of a blog post.

2023 Credit Card Strategy:

Disclaimer:

The benefits to these cards will be meaningless if you don’t pay at least the statement balance by or before the payment due date of your credit cards. I personally recommend an emergency fund as a perquisite that you keep filled at all times with at least a 3-months of your income. Also, acknowledge the fact that it’s always going to be wiser to keep the majority (95%) of your money by not splurging, just to save 5%. Only use the money you actually plan to spend and already have.

In my “2022 – Turning Thirty Goals” blog update, I initially favored cashback for travel cards. However, by 2023, I transitioned to a travel point-heavy setup, primarily using AMEX cards. Since I already had the AMEX Platinum, I downgraded to the AMEX Gold Card, known for fast point accumulation. As a meticulous planner, I considered how to use the points and realized that, despite the appealing point values on paper, they might not necessarily save money. The perceived value in transferring points and getting 30-200% extra can be misleading; the key is the actual value obtained from those points.

In general, choosing international flights tends to give you the best bang for your buck, while domestic flights offer the most value for your points. Let me break it down. Typically, the points required for international flights are lower than the equivalent cash cost. However, this isn’t necessarily the case for domestic flights unless you’re booking first-class tickets, which in my opinion is not worth because I can economy for real cheap on domestic flights without any real discomfort because of the length of time for those flights. Opting for international flights not only allows you to get the best deal in terms of points (cheapest ticket) but also alternatively provides more overall value. I’ve come across instances where laydown first-class flights to for example Japan cost as little as 120,000 points round trip. If you consider a baseline of 1 cent/point, that’s only $1200 in point accumulation for a round trip flight you get to laydown on and possibly take a shower.

As you could imagine my international flights are far and few between which leads me to my next point. Another thing to take into consideration is that these points just sit while they are accumulating similar to a bank account with a low to negative interest rate due to point-flation. You are essentially a product of hope while awaiting your eventual value that you may not actually get depending on the actions of your future self. For example, while I was trying to use the points so I could eventually close these accounts (I’ll get into the why in a bit), I didn’t opt for international flights because that is a much larger commitment than I’m willing to do at the moment, but I knew that transferring my points to Delta should give me at least 30% back in value.

So I transferred my points to Delta to get this flight in the screen snip below for 23,000 points + $11.20 (fees) + $12.60 (tax offset fee when transferring this amount of points from AMEX), which I will value at (keeping in mind that I the baseline metric for points is $0.01 per point) a total of $253.80.

This same flight in cash would be equivalent to $358, as you can see in the screen snip below.

To calculate the value received from using points over cash, we take the cost of the flight in cash and divide by the amount of points that were used for this flight. Since I was required to use cash to reserve and transfer points, I’m going to convert the total cash equivalent to points, again at a $0.01 to point evaluation, which is super easy since you just need to move the decimal place over to the right twice. So the $253.80 equivalent is 25,380 points/miles.

$358/25,380 = ~$0.014 → 1.4 cents per point

1.4 cents/point is pretty good value domestically for a non-business/1st class ticket. This essentially means, every time I had received 4x points back for grocery or restaurant purchase via my AMEX Gold card, that I was getting a 40% bonus in value, which would value those points at 5.6% instead of 4%.

If this is a good value, why would I argue that points are not worth? Simply, this is not a the cheapest non-stop round trip trip you can get with similar if not the same variables, which will occur often in your search results. Here you can see below a cheaper ticket both in points and in cash for the same dates and almost identical times:

So if we were going to be real about this, I’m getting my points at a value of:

$219/25,380 = ~ 0.009 → 0.9 cent per point

Obtaining points at a rate of .9 cents per point is rather disheartening. Adding to the disappointment is the point-flation that took place, making it challenging for me to even calculate the potential loss I may have incurred. As a consequence of the time-consuming process of hunting for the best deals through apps like https://seats.aero/ and the unexpected outcomes of choosing points over cashback, I am reverting to a cashback credit card setup. This shift not only affords me the flexibility to decide where to use the cashback but also allows me to grow it in platforms like a brokerage account.

Edit (3.14.24): Amex has recently teamed up with point.me/amex, enabling you to access a service similar to seats.aero, but at no cost.

2024 Credit Card Strategy:

It’s important to note that the expense categories are tailored to my lifestyle, and there might be better cards for readers with different spending patterns. For example, as a single person, I won’t likely spend over $10k a year on groceries, but this scenario might be different, especially for those with larger families. In such cases, a lower percentage grocery card with a higher spending cap in that category could be more suitable. You might be wondering where to find these cards since they aren’t commonly mentioned on CardPointers or NerdWallet. The reason for this is that I spend a significant amount of time exploring forums like Reddit and myFICO for enjoyment after work. I’ve discovered that those who possess the skill set to uncover these deals often struggle to scale this information. Additionally, since forums have a low entry barrier, you’ll only come across this information in such sources.

At this juncture, I now have a solid foundation of core credit cards to work with. Consequently, I may explore other interests, leading to potentially fewer credit card blog updates. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the last credit card blog, but rather that I’ll allocate less time to it due to having the best cashback credit cards. However, there’s a high likelihood that I’ll still apply for travel cards. Leveraging an introductory bonus for “free” travel is an opportunity that is hard to beat.

Expense Category	Cashback → Card	Foreign Transaction Fee	Spending Category Cap
Grocery	5% → AAA Daily Advantage Visa 5% → Discover More (3-Months)	No	AAA → $10k/year Discover → $1.5k/quarter likely with a shared category
Gas	5% → Redstone Visa 5% → Discover More (3-Months)	No	Redstone → $7k/year Discover → $1.5k/quarter likely with a shared category
Dining	5% → Redstone Visa 5% → Discover More (3-Months)	No	Redstone → $7k/year Discover → $1.5k/quarter likely with a shared category
Travel	2-3% → Venmo Visa	No	No cap
Travel – Domestic Transit	5% → Citi Custom Cash Mastercard	Yes	5% → $500/month
Jeep Maintenance	7% → Jeep Reward Mastercard	Yes	No cap
Car Insurance	5% → USBank Harris Teeter Mastercard via Mobile Wallet 5% → Discover More via Mobile Wallet (3-Months)	No	USBank → $3k/year/card Discover → $1.5k/quarter likely with a shared category
Internet/Streaming	5% → USBank Cash+	Yes	$2k/quarter shared with another category
Cell Phone Plan	5% → USBank Cash+	Yes	$2k/quarter shared with another category
Gym	5% → USBank Cash+ 5% → Discover More (3-Months)	USBank → Yes Discover → No	USBank → $2k/quarter shared with another category Discover → $1.5k/quarter likely with a shared category
Sporting Goods (REI)	5% → USBank Cash+	Yes	$2k/quarter shared with another category
Online Shopping	5% → USBank Harris Teeter Mastercard via Mobile Wallet 5% → Discover More (3-Months) 5% → Discover More via Mobile Wallet (3-Months)	No	USBank → $3k/year/card Discover → $1.5k/quarter likely with a shared category
REI	5% → REI Co-op Mastercard	No	No cap
Miscellaneous	5% → USBank Harris Teeter Mastercard via Mobile Wallet 5% → Discover More via Mobile Wallet (3-Months)	No	USBank → $3k/year/card Discover → $1.5k/quarter likely with a shared category
Everything Else	2% → Fidelity Visa	No	No cap

Non-category card:

Citi Shop You Way Mastercard:

I heard rumors about this one and decided to commit to see if the rumors were true. What I’ve discovered confirms the rumors, but it’s important to note that I don’t align with the target demographic, which is primarily families. The required spending threshold is typically higher than what I, as a single individual, usually expend. To illustrate, here’s an example of one of their offers:

This offer basically means that you can get 10% back per month for the entire year on grocery, gas, and eating out if you can meet the spending requirement of at least $1000/month. I personally will be a few hundred dollars short each month in these categories so I simply am not leveraging this deal, though I imagine a family would easily shoot over a $1000/month. It is important to note with the above offer that if you spent closer to the $2000 mark, but not enough to get the $200 statement credit that you would be earning less than 10%, but a minimum of 5% instead which to be frank is still phenomenal for any of these categories. So much so, I don’t know how this company survives. Why do I keep this? I think there is a future where I am offered something with in my budget. Plus this is a great backup 5% cashback gas category card for domestic use.

Verizon Visa:

While this card falls into the category card realm, its cashback rate is below 5%, so it doesn’t take precedence in my primary core usage. Why do I keep this? This particular card offers an unlimited 4% cashback on gas and grocery purchases without a foreign transaction fee. This makes it a valuable backup option in case I exceed my limits for any reason. Additionally, I utilize it as a placeholder to maintain a form of payment for my auto-payment settings. Basically, to qualify for the auto-payment discount when paying my Verizon wireless bill, I’m required to keep a linked bank account or their credit card consistently attached to the account.

Choice privileges Select Mastercard:

This particular card initially caught my attention with its enticing welcome bonus, which I’m currently working my way through. However, a surprising drawback emerged sooner than expected—the devaluation of their points. Previously, redeeming 6,000 points could secure a room or $80 in cash, but now it requires 20,000 points for a $120 value. This shift has left me contemplating whether to retain this card.

The card’s retention appeal lies in the annual bonus of 30,000 points, granted simply for maintaining the card, despite its $95 annual fee. Essentially, it’s akin to prepaying for a room (or more). While Choice hotels may not be considered luxurious, they serve as a practical resource when adapting to a budget-friendly flight schedule. The flexibility provided by these points is valuable; for instance, flying out on a Monday morning can be significantly cheaper than a weekend departure, and these points enable me to adapt to the most cost-effective solution.

Moreover, the card proves to be a useful tool for coordinating backpacking meetups, particularly since Dan is pursuing a trail that extends much further south. It’s not immediately apparent, but you can secure any room size for the same amount of points as the smallest room, adding to its practicality.

Side Notes:

The Discover More card remains in my possession solely because it represents my oldest credit line. Despite my appreciation for its mobile wallet category, I’m not entirely enthused since the categories lack predictability. While there’s a fair chance that the categories will remain consistent each year, the timing of these selections is not guaranteed.
It’s worth noting that you can effectively pair any mobile wallet spend category card with any expense category that accepts payments via a mobile wallet. However, in the chart above, I’ve specifically designated this particular card for expenses without a 5% category overlap. An additional interesting detail is that you have the option to obtain multiple of these USBank co-branded cards, thereby expanding your 5% cashback threshold for mobile wallet transactions.
The only money I spend at Sporting Goods category is REI, though I would prefer cashback than a rewards the following year in the form of a dividend. Why keep the REI Mastercard? The 5% on the REI card is unlimited while the USBank 5% Sporting category is capped at $2k/quarter. I don’t plan to spend $2k in a quarter at REI, but there is a service that REI offers called “REI Adventures” which I really enjoy as you can see in my previous blog called, “2022 – REI Adventure Experience” that can easily go up and over $2k, so if I am going to keep that door open, I’m going to keep this card open.
It may not be immediately apparent, but I possess two USBank Cash+ cards. I contend that this card is undervalued, given its ability to provide 5% cashback in unconventional categories, including apartment necessities such as cable/internet, cell phone providers, and home utilities (which encompass power and water). While I currently don’t have the majority of these services, I have future plans to do so. JeepLife has always been and continues to be a means to an end, and I intend to retain these cards for as long as possible.
I’ve allocated my travel expenses, as depicted in the table above, mainly because the widely acknowledged fact is that a 3% cashback rate represents the highest available for unlimited spending on a travel category card without an annual fee. Given that I no longer need the Citi Custom Cash Mastercard (previously designated for domestic dining) since acquiring the Red Stone Visa, I am contemplating utilizing it for travel, as it’s the only aspect of my life lacking a 5% category. The only drawback I can discern in this arrangement is the foreign transaction fee linked to the Citi Custom Cash card. To mitigate this, I plan to limit the card’s use to domestic transit expenses, including car rentals and parking.
Obtaining the Redstone Visa card involves a process, but it’s a hidden gem in the world of credit cards. To be eligible for this card, you must become a member of the Redstone Federal Credit Union, and there are specific requirements in place. To potentially bypass the local residency requirement, you can opt to join the Financial Fitness Association for a one-time fee of $8. Once a member, you can promptly initiate your application for an account with Redstone FCU. During the application, you will be prompted to specify your association, and a drop-down list will appear with various affiliations, including the Financial Fitness Association. Subsequently, you’ll be required to make an immediate $5 deposit into the account you’re establishing with them. Once your membership is approved, you can proceed to apply for the credit card.

2023 ➵ 2024 – Icelandic Adventure