If I decided to run away from my family, friends and home, then I know the general location I would head to, the Virginia – North Carolina Appalachian mountain region. I have always loved the States of Virginia and North Carolina. Their location is ideal for me because, I have always loved the mountains and the forests, something both States have plenty of. And, if I ever wanted to go see the ocean, I wouldn’t have far to travel. These two States have been favorites of mine for as long as I can remember. Ever since I was little, I have always loved this area of the country thus, if I ever left Indiana that is where I would head. ‘Course, everyone who knows me knows this so, I would have to change my name and cover my tracks if I wanted to disappear.
Changing my name however, is easier said than done. My name is who I am; and who I am is Ian E. Champ. Losing that part of my identity would be a hard obstacle. However, after the small amount of thought I have given this topic, I believe I know what I would rename myself. The name I have come up with is Quinn Libra. I have always liked the name Quinn and my astrological sign is Libra. Therefore, I would rename myself Quinn Libra. Doesn’t ring as well as Ian Champ but, it would do the job.
Finally, what I would do in this new life of mine would depend on how bold I become. If I grew the courage of Alexander Supertramp then I would follow my dreams and forgo work that entitled me to greater luxuries. This path would take me to the work I have always wanted to do but, been fearful of the lack of security they offer. My Grandfather on my Mother’s side was a Carpenter and ever since I saw the woodwork he could create I was hooked. My current plan for life is to work hard in whatever my chosen career path and learn the trade of carpentry on the side. Therefore, if I left my current life behind, I would dedicate myself to the artful working of wood. I would build my own home in the woods, a small but comfortable dwelling. I would forgo pleasures such as television, heating and cooling systems, phone lines, running water, and electricity in favor of a simpler, harder lifestyle. I know that no matter how hard I try, I will always rely on modern devices and inventions but, I would rid myself of the superfluous ones. I would work my own small plot of land and farm the food I could not kill or gather. I would build my own devices and maintain my land. I would keep a small truck for work and to get around (not fully primitive of me). With all of this peace, I would spend long hours ensuring survival through boiling water, preparing (sometimes hunting) food and in general ensuring I could keep living.
This lifestyle may not appeal to everyone but, I like the idea of living only off of what I need. It provides me with the opportunity to cut out the waste in my life and to return my life to a simpler time when everything a man did had tangible importance.
