These children become "cultural chameleons" early in life—keen observers who modify their behavior so they fit in wherever they are. Many actually appreciate diversity, and seek it out as adults. The ease with which young global nomads roam the world can create for them an enhanced world view, a concept validated by the recent research team including sociologist Ruth Hill Useem, who pioneered research on third-culture kids in the early 1960s. Her study-in-progress documents that "About half (47 percent) of those who report volunteer activities include an international dimension." Global nomads often serve as cultural liaisons and interpreters between U.S. culture and the rest of the world. They are the "prototype citizens of the 21st century," according to Ted Ward, author of the 1984 book, Living Overseas.
The longest I have ever lived in one place was when I lived in the Seattle area from 1991 to 1999. I made the choice to stay there as an adult, and it certainly wasn’t tough sticking around what with all of that natural beauty surrounding me on a daily basis. I think that my love of the outdoors was definitely nurtured during the time that I spent in the Pacific Northwest.
When I left, I left to be near my immediate family, most of which live in the St. Louis, MO area. From mountains to the land of the flat, it was hard to make the transition. However, living there brought me closer to my niece and nephew, which is especially important as I only have one sibling. I am the youngest (insert long diatribe regarding youngest sibling issues here.)
My travels did not stop with the move to St. Louis. After living there for four years, I made my way up to Minnesota to start my life partnership with Tim. We were married in 2004. Tim is my hero, and after a long succession of poor choices in men, the only guy that I ever felt proud to introduce to my parents. His family is German, so he has this amazing work ethic. It led him to get his masters degree in fine art, and also to build a body of work in stone sculpture that showcases his real talent as an artist. He is a kind and compassionate human being, a true testament to the excellent job his parents did in raising him.
Sorry ladies, he is an only child – no brothers to speak of.
I have to admit that my life has been a succession of incidences that seemed to have occurred late: I married late – in my mid-thirties. As a result I will have children late – maybe before I turn forty – maybe not. I stopped drinking like a college student late – only two years ago. I didn’t take my “career” all that seriously until late. I have started living my dream and trying to work toward doing what I love, which is writing – late.
But one person’s “late” is another person’s perfect timing.
Tim and I relocated in August 2007 to Teton Valley, Idaho. Here we both live and work – he in the granite industry and me in the design industry. We have found a place to live and to love – and to stay. We have started cultivating friendships with other transplants that have moved here. We both find that many of them have unique personalities that have made them feel displaced all their lives – much the way both of us have felt in our own experience. Here we are, in a beautiful mountain valley, surrounded by friendly free-spirited artistic freaks.
It is awesome.
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