Philosophically, there’s a reason for everything. And I believe it’s no great mystery why I got a cancer diagnosis. The Universe needed to get my attention – to shift my focus toward some BIG things I want to do with the remaining years of this life.

I have two significant projects I’ve been yacking about for years. One is my book … and will share more about that at a later date. The other biggie – which I’ve carried in my head and heart for many years but never gave space on my calendar – is the WOW! Foundation.

It’s a simple idea: provide travel scholarships for young people (of any age) to go to a developing country (or countries) to have an experience of living, learning, growing, volunteering and/or connecting. He/she comes back to the US, profoundly transformed by the experience and makes a positive difference.

I envision few rules and restrictions. I would hope that each recipient would replenish the fund when they are able. There will be no mandate as to what they contribute to the world, or when. I know such things can take time to percolate.

Why is this so important to me? My solo travel adventure through southeast Asia and India in the late 70s was my most significant life event. It cracked open my limited world view. Along with the sensible mix-and-match polyester outfits I took with me at the start of that journey, through the course of my 8-month adventure, I was successful in shedding my belief system of doubt, insecurity and timidity.

Travel can change people – and the world – in profound ways:

My step-daughters, Erica and Ashley, have made profound and positive life decisions that were influenced by separate international travel experiences.

Many of the NGOs that are supported by my favorite philanthropy, Dining for Women, were started as a result of a momentous travel experience.

At a recent doctor visit, I asked Dr. Evans, the young M.D. in her final year of residency, “What inspired you to pursue a medical career?”

“I was in Public Accounting, involved in micro-lending. I traveled to developing countries and sometimes volunteered in local health clinics in my free time. I had no medical training, but observed how deep was the connection between patient and provider. When I came home, I decided to make a career change.”

Three young friends of mine, making a difference in the world!

American society is focused on higher education at the expense of authentic life experience. While I believe that higher education is valuable, there is nothing – nothing – more impactful and educational than traveling to someplace really strange and foreign and figuring it all out (or not). Seeing how other people live, worship, harvest, eat, think and survive. Ours is not the only way; nor is is necessarily the best way. It’s not possible to comprehend that until one has a real-life, hands-on, in-the-muck, real-world experience.

I want to make that opportunity available for those who are compassionately curious about other cultures. This is the seed of my idea for the WOW! Foundation.

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And then there’s the minutia: Legalizing as a 501C3 entity? Funding? Business plan? Board of advisors? Liability issues? I trust that all of these details will be worked out, and that the right and perfect resources will show up to support me.

One resource already has showed up: A year ago last April, on a KLM flight to Amsterdam, I struck up a conversation with my seat-mate and shared a bit about my philosophy of travel and the idea for the WOW! Foundation. He gave me his business card and told me to call him to chat further, “Whenever you’re ready.” I called him two weeks ago. He recognized me – since he reads my blogs! – and told me he’ll help in any way he can.

Now you’re reading this blog. The wheels are in motion! The train has left the station!

What do you think?

Who do you know?

How can you help?