In my past life as a psychologist, I learned to treat anxiety as a compass. Whatever the client (or myself) was most eager NOT to talk about--that was what we needed to explore. Nothing is as deadly to new experience and learning as a comfort zone.

This whole piece renews my yearning for the next adventure. Now that I'm done with grad school, I'm ready to begin preparing for a few months living and writing somewhere in Latin America. Chile or Ecuador would be my preference, but Mexico is more accessible.

I know I can't hire you as a guide--at 70, I'd slow you down too much, and besides I'm only marginally better heeled than you are--but maybe as guru upon occasion.