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Writer's picturejoehehn

The Most Difficult Year

Newest journal entry. I’d like to say thank you, from the bottom of my heart to all of those who have spared a kind message, said a prayer, donated to those in need, complimented my writing or actions, helped me overcome my fears and flaws, told me of my inspiration and supported me mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. You know who you are. I love you for that and would not be where I am today without you.

-God Bless-


1 year ago today I left to embark on a journey to make a difference, what I didn’t know at the time was the biggest difference to be made was within.

15 different countries, 4 continents, 8000 miles driven in a classic truck, over 8 months abroad, tens of thousands of miles traveled with planes, buses, trains, boats, cars, motorcycles, atvs, horses, bikes and my favorite…on foot.

Hundreds of people & animals helped through different volunteering capacities; self defense, teaching language, funding provided, sports, arts & crafts, reading, hospital care & support, medical supplies provided, feeding, nurturing, motivating, empowering, inspiring.

Forests, deserts, oceans, lakes, rivers, mountains, cliff side wonders, rainforests, volcanoes, mosques, national parks, streams, wonders of the world, valleys, natural pools, churches, hotels, people’s homes, cabins, cemeteries, temples, ruins, farms, ranches, metropolises, gardens, beaches, mud pits, tree houses, tiny hostels and towering buildings.

Hundreds of new friends made from over 70 different countries, new languages attempted, new customs and traditions, new food, new recipes, new drink and new traditions.

Hiking, fishing, swimming, cliff diving, rock climbing, snorkeling, hammocking, running, motor-cross, martial arts, yoga, reading, surfing, tumbling, stand up paddle boarding, off roading, working out, camping, bonfires, singing, dancing, playing and a lot of laughing.

Children’s cries and their laughter, women’s tears of empowerment, men’s humility erased, spiritual discussions, motivational speeches, helping strangers, found a new love for photography and writing, helping friends & family and finding my purpose again.

Physical ailments, motorcycle crashes, sickness, ripped off, lied to, injuries sustained, food poisoning, getting dangerously lost, hangovers, friendships ended, almost died, dozens of truck breakdowns, witnessing horrible events, health concerns & deep depression.

Thousands of prayers, hundreds of hours of meditation, suicidal thoughts, panicked, self reflection, broken down, inner growth, cried, loved, lost my grip on reality, laughed, acceptance, vulnerability, nightmares, terrified thoughts and my complete loss of worry, anxiety & fear.


I’ve learned more about myself over this past year than I have compared to all of the prior years combined. This was the absolute most difficult time of my life, without comparison. It’s been quite the year but through it all I can’t help but feel blessed. I will forever have my beloved Jessica by my side…I’m excited about our next adventure together.


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