Back in November I was required to apply for a new US passport as mine was due to expire. Completing the process, I now have a brand new pristine passport freshly laundered from ‘all’ the messy stamps I have ‘earned’ since 2014. Cool Beans!

Part of the process in the United States is that we have to surrender our old passport along with sending in our renewal application and our new passport photos. Once all has been sent in, it then becomes a waiting game. During the waiting game there is a period of time when we have no physical passport at all.

Not having this vital booklet for several months stirred up an unexpected emotion for me. I felt frightfully naked and exposed in it’s absence. I had became very attached in the 9+ years I carried it! For much of my life I was completely oblivious to the importance , yet suddenly I was bereft without mine.

Prior to 2014, the only International travel I attempted was into Canada and Mexico from the United States. When my buddy Neville and I crossed between Canada and the US back 1980, only he carried a passport. Neither Mexico nor Canada required one for U.S. citizens at these border checks prior to 9/11.

In 2014 my outlook on passports took a complete left turn. An opportunity to travel over the pond came up, and the passport then became a necessity. It did not take long for that necessity to morph into an obsession. The trips to Europe were all quite wonderful in every way, and a passport was the key that opened those doors for me.

While visiting Athens last summer, I was constantly aware of where my passport was at all times. Whether locked in a safe, or held close to my breast in my passport carrier, I was aware of it’s precise location. Within just a few years the little dark gold lettered booklet had metamorphosed from an afterthought to an integral part of my very existence.

Soon after I received my replacement passport in December, the Department of State returned my old passport. The dear old friend was completely perforated through with a fatal wound. Pierced to the very core!

As I paged through it I fondly regarded all of the old passport stamps that had accumulated over the past decade. There were a modest few. Unfortunately not as many as I would have wished. I have discovered late in life how truly passionate I am about International travel. With some regret, I know I could have travelled more. That I have any stamps seemed almost surreal to me, it was visual proof that I have ‘been there, done that’. Indeed, I had ‘been there’, and the stamp was proof.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=tyayXDrCR8I%3Fsi%3DkGC05YLoTudbd8VO

For some of the old passport stamps that I collected, I elected to force the issue at the immigration checkpoints. Some border crossings don’t even issue an actual physical stamp. But I usually would make a special request for one. To me, being able to visit other sovereign nations is one of my most cherished human rights. The passport stamp is symbolic to me as a badge of great honor, an indelible proof that authenticated my freedom to travel the world and experience other cultures. Only with my passport can I truly be ‘under full sail!’

Reflecting on my new passport I wonder what new destinations are in store for me ? I am excited at all the possibilities the new document presents! I have a bucket list, for sure. But I’m open for any adventure. I’ve got a knapsack, my boots, and a passport. Where do you think I should be stepping out to next?

I’m grateful that my passport allows me the great privilege to traverse International borders and sample of the many diverse wonders of the world. Maybe I’ll cross paths with you, fellow traveler. Until then, safe travels my friend!

Cheers, nca