Solipsism
sol-ip-sism Pronunciation[sol-ip-siz-uhm] extreme preoccupation with and indulgence of one's feelings, desires, etc.; egoistic self-absorption.
Apparently this is the word of the day. From the Daily Show guest last night who claims that the internet promotes solipsism, to another nut job shooter at a school, to my own preoccupation with my preparations and travel anxiety.
Somehow the worry that the world is going to explode is always a bigger issue when I have to travel. Of course, the US armed forces trying to shoot down a satellite just inflames that worry. As if that would be easier to deal with if I were home here in my little nest. Safe.
Safety is a straight-jacket though. Travel the proof that everything one imagines can be attained.
I am trying to keep the mind full of positive thoughts: My parents are well cared for. My children are smart enough to take care of themselves, even if they can't find their way around without Mom's GPS. The house won't explode, and even if it does, it's insured. If I can't find anything I want to eat in South America, at least I'll lose weight. If I get some kind of parasite, at least I'll lose weight. If they lose our luggage, at least everything is cheaper there.
The abundant universe will take care of me. Sometimes though I worry that thought is like living in the fictional world of Lost, where there is electricity, water and food magically provided. Darn got to get back to that positive thinking thing. Solipsism. Or maybe, just not thinking at all and letting the roller coaster take you for the ride.
On to Lima's Pacific, the Andes, Machu Picchu, cloud forests and Chrissy's home away from home in Quito.