The Life I Left Behind
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- Опубликовано: 8 окт 2022
- It doesn’t take long to lose sight of your dreams. To trade curiosity for routine…this one is a glimpse into the life I left behind. The book that changed everything, and a backpacking trip into the wild ↟
p.s. I still have a mountain of footage to sort and share, but it’s crazy beautiful outside, and there’s nothing else in the world quite like autumn in the alpine. Thank you for hanging around, I appreciate you all so much ♡
1:05 the life i left behind
2:30 to the mountains
4:00 untethered, unattached, uninvested
4:45 just a dream
5:49 finding courage
7:11 into the wild
8:32 alpine dips in the backcountry
10:22 who do you think you are
10:56 is any of this actually what i want
13:00 thirty-seven, single, living in a van down by the river
In this video: @MariahAlice
Come say hi over on Instagram! (I post there more often) ♡ / christianschaffer
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Hey :) I’m Christian Schaffer, and I’ve lived on the road full-time since May 2018. This journey began in 2013 when I left the corporate world to build my career as an outdoor adventure & travel photographer. As a semi-minimalist, I eventually decided to donate/sell most of my belongings and move into my 4x4 Nissan Xterra. After 14 months of SUV living and falling madly in love with the open road - I bought a van and hired a team to build it out. Van life enables me to experience and document the beauty of our natural world on a whole new level, all while having my home and office nearby. My hope is that by sharing my own personal highs and lows along this (sometimes) wild journey, you might be inspired to hit the road or spend more time outdoors. Maybe one day I'll see you out on that open road 🚐
*My van is a 2019 Ram ProMaster 1500 High Roof, 136" WB with 42K miles*
#solofemaletravel #vanlife #backpacking
Music is from MUSICBED 🎶 Elevate your videos with record-label quality songs: share.mscbd.fm/christianschaffer
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This is what I did in my mid 30s to early 40s. I took time off post 2008 economic collapse which lasted for many years. I had a Uni degree (Masters), but it was worth less. So instead of doing a dead-end job that I would hate. I moved with the little bit of savings I had as a single to a beautiful mountain town in the Blue Ridge. It was only supposed to last for 2 or 3 years but ended up for close to 7 due to covid. I am finally back in the city. With a fresh new perspective on life and working on my career goals and hoping to save some for my sunset years when I am 65 and above.
What I learned in those 7 years was priceless. I gained so much insight into life and my self by leaving the business/Corp lifestyle and out of my comfort zone. Doing whatever gigs I could find to pay bills. From caretaking elderly to working in Greenhouse's and some remodeling homes. It was not always easy, at times I hated it and questioned myself, but it was worth it. Stuff I had never done before but taught me so much about myself and people who I would probably never meet in my business Corp bubble. I was exploring life and it taught me so much, Empathy/compassion. Being grateful for what I had exp in my own life too. I hiked in the mountains, set my own schedule to work or not to work. Took deep spiritual dives into meditation and plant medicine. Gained incredible insights!
Why am I sharing this with anyone reading? It's because I feel we all as humans need to take that sabbatical, walk about, journey or whatever you want to call it from our bubbles. Regardless of age so that you can learn more about yourself by getting out of your comfort zone and appreciating life beyond career, money, job etc.... We were not born on this planet to just be workers; Life has a much bigger and deeper meaning. So, find it and learn from it before it's your time to leave your body.
It was not always easy. At times I hated it and questioned myself, but it was worth it…
THIS 🙏🏻 thank you for sharing this
Thank you! Well said!
My parents are unfortunately not like that but honestly I don’t care anymore- I do what feels right to me
Bravo!!!
Thank you for taking the time to post this. srsly
@@sickstyles6837 srsly "do you srsly think you will gain anything?" GU
I tell you that your video here, spoke to me. I lost both parents in January(2022) within 4 days of each other(59 yrs marriage). And I realized how much time I have wasted. Sure there were good times and bad, and I've seen things not many have. But if I could go back and travel more, explore more, adventure more...I would have. And now, at 54 I AM. I set a goal, made the plan and started the path. By my 56th birthday(Dec 2023) I will be on the road, full-time, exploring the great USA. I am a retired chef and now a 'semi-pro' photographer(not nearly on your level, of course) and plan to do so much more. You give me inspiration and motivation, and I thank you for that. Much love and safe travels, Matt
I hope that you fulfill your dreams!!Best wishes!!👍🏼👍🏼
Sorry for your loss. It's never to late to start your journey. You've got this Matt
I’m so sorry for your loss, Matt. No doubt they’ll be with you as you set out on this new journey ❤️ maybe I’ll see you out there someday
Good luck with your travel dreams - sorry for your losses. We plan to start our travels in a couple of years when we retire...cannot wait to put them into action.
I have realised recently there is more to life than, a house, a home and the standard wife/partner and 2.3 children.
There is more to life, I’m know I need to get out there, but have absolutely no idea of my “WHAT”.
When I find out what that is………I’m gone!
I am about to turn 62. I can only look back and wish I had lived my life as you have chosen to. I don't honestly care that I'm old enough to be your father. You are one of my heroes for embracing a life chosen for yourself.
Lol. I’m 61 and feel the same way about Christian. I envy her young life.
By no means too late
I had many adventures in my 20s with my 70s VW Bus. But it never occurred to me to make it a lifestyle and live in it. Though I did think of vanlife as an option for my retirement. I do think that with the internet, there are more avenues for income now. So it makes the nomadic life easier.
What are you waiting for??? A journey starts with the first step!!
@@dennisalbrecht6438 Oh, I definitely started, three years ago! I am a full-time RV'er. Thus the name of my channel. "Nomad Outdoors"
Let’s toast to those who dare to look at their fears in the eyes and build a life they truly believe in, outside anyones expectations, with no script to follow, nothing but their intuition. Thanks for sharing your story, it inspired me and reminded me how much your journey resonates with me. I miss those truly fulfilling days when I lived in my humble tiny house on wheels… 😊 Cheers 🍻
Please ignore the negative comments like “less depressing” videos. This is your channel, your life, if they don’t want to watch they don’t have to. Sit through this, share your journey and heal in the way that works for you. I love your videos and your story. Thank you for sharing ❤
Amen
💯
100%!!!
All of this! Life isn’t always sunshine and roses. The dark parts are full of beauty if we are open to that.
Love, love, loved this video! I had thought Into the Wild right before you said it. I cheated and watched the movie. I was emotionally racked at the end. I have, nearly, 20 years on you. I remember hearing it said that "By the time you decide what you want to do with your life the time for making that decision has passed." I know some may say it's never too late to change, but prior decisions (marriage, parenthood, homeownership, "roots.") can significantly impact your options. I applaud you, your life (The life you've lived and the life you're living.). I hope you are frequently visited by joy, contentment and, on occasion, happiness. I have often thought about the constraints of "society," that seek to place rails on our path. I believe that words must be one of the, if not the, most powerful forces (?) on Earth. Society is right up there as well. These forces only have the power we allow them. Stay safe and continue to live, and share (Please!), your amazing life. ❤
Absolute 1000%over the top fucking mind blowing/heart stopping video! This is a bona fide masterpiece, where the imagery, the music, the story telling, the sound of your voice all meld into one compelling symphony. Your vulnerability here too is priceless and a true gift. Thank you for adding your unique wonderful perspective to the world!!
wow thank you Wendy 😭
Well said!
I am SO into this comment ❤
AMEN!!
i can’t even put into words how much this spoke to me and how wonderfully this is made ❤
🥲🙏🏻
Appreciate your candid narrative and your beautiful imagery. Your early chronicle chapters are content rich. Understand your desire to feel “untethered” and to “experience it.” Perhaps you, like many other vanlifer’s, were born under a wandering star. You certainly have an eye for the light, characteristic of the best photographers. Nice to see you with Mariah. Thanks for sharing another of chapter.
thank you 🥲🙏🏻
You all must read Dan Millmans way of the peaceful warrior and then the sacred journey of the peaceful warrior 🙏🤲🌻🗝️🕊️
@@ChristianSchaffer do we mourn someone before they are born? So why would we mourn them when they die? They are only going back to the same place they were at before they were born...
Blessed every day in every way we don't even have to pay and the only thing that gets in the way is our expectations because some of our biggest blessings don't seem like blessings because they are uncomfortable but those are the blessings we learn and grow from the most ☝️💗🤟🌅
JesuS LoveS YoU..I Understand !"!
Hi, Christian. Thanks for this. I watch all of your videos but rarely comment. There's usually nothing to add by the time I get here. This time, though, I want to share a bit. I was 56 years old when my life came apart. No details but I spiraled for three years, until I saw a film titled, "Tiny: A story about small living". There were other factors, too, but that's when things began to change for me. I went from literally praying to die, to finding a way out. The vagabond life has been my lifeline. I'm now 65 and spend some of my time in a house, the rest on the road in a Chevy Tahoe. Like the song says, "I could cry for the time I've wasted, but that's a waste of time and tears". What I know is that things keep getting better and better. You're wiser than you know (or maybe you do). I'm grateful for you. Enjoy this vagabond life. ~Sonny
1. Your photography takes my breath away even on my phone.
2. “He was unheeded, happy, and near to the wild heart of life. He was alone and young and wilful and wildhearted, alone amid a waste of wild air and brackish waters and the seaharvest of shells and tangle and veiled grey sunlight.” - Jon Krakauer. I think your brother was right.
3. Your natural hair color is coming through and it is incredibly beautiful.
I've been making this point to my 18yr old son for 3 yrs now. I've just forwarded this video to him, because its probably clearer coming from someone doing rather than me saying. So just like your brother gave you the book, I've gifted him your video, thank you. You've now gone Full circle & all the way to Scotland 👍
Nicely said.
I so identify with this! Not all of us are wired to live the 9 to 5 life. I’m now 57 and, after another spell of years of contract work, about to cast off into the wilderness again in 2023! Love what you’re doing. Stay wild ❤
I give you 6 bloody months mate and you be sayin what TF do I do.
My dog just passed away and seeing you upload a new video makes me feel a bit better 🥲💔
I sobbed happy and sad tears through this. You are such an inspiration to me. I’m going through a divorce at 37. I’m an artist, a climber, and feel at home in the desert. I move from LA, where I grew up, to Joshua Tree, this week; and am buying my first home, a little Class-C RV. I traveled in a van for 2 months this year, and have never felt so free, so at home. I, like you, and so many, follow these paths we think we are expected to pave, when all we want is the wind, the sand, and the trees, to feel the earth beneath bare feet, not encapsulated in this concrete jungle. My creativity was stifled for so many years; I felt like I owed it to my partner to have a kid, take care of a house, etc., but it all felt so wrong. As incredibly sad as it is, my partner and I are amicable; and what I thought was always an unreachable and unattainable dream… I just can’t believe it’s really happening.
I’ve been watching your soothing videos, and incredible cinematography, since well before this big life shift, just yearning for that solitude and quiet I wanted to dive through my screen into. Thank you so much for sharing your journey, your vulnerability, and your passion for the wild. Maybe I’ll see you on the road one day ☺️
I often feel the same way about her tremendously uplifting pictures…….I’ve also spent a lot of time in Joshua Tree and found it to be a somehow spiritual place. I’m a 76 year old traditional path leading atheist but this woman’s story gets me in the deepest place every time. This may be my favorite. Good luck with your life changes.
I was born north of LA, and when I go back down to visit siblings or for work, I literally cannot escape fast enough. I was down there this past spring, and when I got back home... I walked out back 45 seconds down to the lake behind my home and just felt the wind wash away the feeling that had been building the whole time I was in LA. While I do live in a home, it backs onto an 88k acre state park, which honestly provides so much peace I have a hard time when I do go back into any city. If you have not explored this world much, go do so, and do not wait. But always read the signs that life is putting in front of you, and learn to adjust your path to what feels best. Enjoy the crags and be safe.
This touched me. Congratulations ♥️
Christian, your story telling abilities are truly amazing.
Your videos, somehow, have a therapeutic nature to them.
I appreciate how you occasionally pour your heart into them and I hope, somehow, you find it therapeutic too; albeit for different reasons.
Keep on doing whatever it is that makes YOU happy.
For now, thank you for sharing you incredible imagery and story telling.
What I love about Christian’s videos (aside from sharing my name) is they are all so genuine. Life is filled with happy, calm, somber, and sad moments. Her videos feel like a genuine reflection of life. Sometimes they are happy, most times calming, sometimes somber, and sometimes a little sad, but all the times amazing to watch. Keep doing your thing and living your life Christian! I here for whatever kind of videos you release because they’re all genuine!
I couldn't agree more !!!
What a beautiful post. Thank you.
And it's true that society finds it difficult to accept or relate to those traveling down a different path.
_Do you have any kids?_ No. _Is your job getting you down?_ No. _Don't you have any evening and weekend obligations?_ No. _Well... it was nice talking to you!_
For those of us who followed the script, this video is the “what if”!
Thank you for being so candid about your choices . Perhaps your dear Grandpa is in fact still with you & making sure you have your best life possible! I’m so thankful my grandkids can make their life choices based on their own likes & wants. Because at 73 there still is the, “what if”!
Blessings on your way, dear one!
🙏🏻❤️😊
This 14 minute video gave me more insight in what life has to offer than a thousand hours of regular education.
Thank you, Christian. You're a wonderful human. ❤
Living a life off the beaten path is such an amazing gift to the soul. Covid showed this to so many people who worked out of cubicles, and lived behind fences around their yards, then they realized the van life expands you in ways you never dreamed possible. Into The Wild is one of my favorite movies. Thank you for sharing a part of your world. Amazing video!
I can't tell you how much I needed this video. I'm a similar age as you and lately I've been questioning my off the beaten path choices because, as I'm sure you know, it can be hard and sometimes filled with loneliness and discomfort. Appreciate you!
Thank you for this video! Our expectations about how life will unfold often times end up destroyed, which especially in younger years can be devastating. Letting go of these expectations and instead just being grateful for what we have in the now, while figuring out the future one day at a time, seems to be the way forward.
Hi Christian,
I just came across your video - it is beautiful.
I can very much appreciate what you are feeling and doing. I'm 76, but I've done and experienced much in my life. I've traveled around the world, lived in Australia after graduate school and had more than my share of adventures. I've hiked the alps, looking out over the green valleys, listening to the cowbells - it was 'the Sound of Music', but not watching in a theater really being there in person - LIVE!!! I've stood on the ramp of an airplane a 20,000', exiting with over a hundred other skydivers to freefall at 120 mph. I've SCUBA dived in crystal clear waters, a hundred feet down, swimming with sea turtles, Manta Rays, sharks.
Live life as much as you can. Be good to others, but enjoy life to its fullest.
As someone almost as old as your grandfather was I have a lot of what ifs. I'm stuck in the grind at this point however I'm busily building an overlanding vehicle. I can't turn back time but I sure hope to see some of the beauty in this world in the time I have left. You made a good decision at the right time. Live life to the fullest everyday. On those days that suck remember the life you left behind. Sharing your story has to inspire people to forget the script and follow their path. You are truly a special lady and I wish you the best in your travels.
I love your videos. For some reason I started worrying about you.... glad to see a new post. I appreciate your vulnerability.... you're just real. Don't stop posting. Many of us are living (for now) vicariously through your work. Thank you
Great story and amazing shots. Thank you for sharing Christian.
So well said. Anyone who's not understood should just send this link to explain.
Dear Christian, What a beautiful spiritual piece of art, what a beautiful voice speaking from your heart. Listening to you and watching your creation touches me deeply. I feel as if I’ve known you a long time ago, somewhere. I suppose you may be hearing lots of things like these from your followers. I myself worked as a doctor for over 20 years in emergency medicine and other fields. I overworked all the time and got seriously burnt out. Fortunately I had a heart attack in 2014 while I was attending to a patient that made me change my life forever realising what is actually important with my near death experience. That moment was a blissful moment. Now I’m traveling in my station wagon in Australia, you could call it simple van life, writing a book and trying to develop my RUclips channel just to share something special that I may have to inspire others. I also realised that everything is useless apart from purifying my own heart. And the only thing worthwhile that I will take with me is what I do to others without expecting anything in return. You are an amazing, beautiful heart, take care and keep growing in goodness,
Love & Metta to you, umesh :)
wow, what a journey you’ve had 🙏🏻 thank you for sharing this small part of it
Similar thing happened to me, I was raised by my grandparents, 3 years ago they were killed in a car accident. The first thing I did after everything was settled was pick up and move to a completely different part of the country and start over with more of a focus on being present.
So so sorry for your loss!!
Life is fragile. Enjoy the beauty while you can. Thanks for the amazing videos. Into the wild, wonderful book and movie. So many miss the beauty on this planet. Follow your dreams.
Your visual narrative in The Life I Left Behind resonated through my soul like a chau gong. On behalf of my own spirit, I wept. What a beautiful tribute to the life you're choosing to create for yourself along with what you've had to shed along the way. This is an important and inspiring creative work. Thank you.
🥹❤️
Into The Wild is one of my favorite books. I actually saw the movie first without knowing it was based on a book. I fell in love with the movie and became more curious about Christopher McCandles' story so I read the book in just 3 days. (thats an acomplishment for me) then I immediately read it again. That book changed my life. Something my life desperately needed at the time.
P.S. This is a great video and story and you rock!
that book will forever have a permanent place in my van 🚐
Very well spoken. A great story. I read “Into the wild” as well. Though I wouldn’t probably do all he did, I related to the desire to live in the wild. I still want to live in the wild, yet here I sit, in a cooperate life, well paid, own a house and car but never quite content. I dream of selling it all and getting a van. But my cats would hate it I fear. I’m impressed with your courage. Keep trekking!
Stunningly beautiful and deeply moving. Yes, Into the Wild showed us how living without confines was entirely possible, and unplugging from defeat and learned helplessness from tragedies equally possible. Living a chosen life, always the highest goal, no matter where or how we end. This book no matter how many times I’ve read it, always leads me to utter unspoken words. One mixed jam of hope, love, tragedy, longing, spirit and the quiet that comes when you know, what you know. So glad you are all together, Mariah, Finn and the glorious mountains. Thanks so much for all you do and showing us all such beautiful places. Be safe, be true to you, always. 💜
Thank you for this, felt called to watch this and when I saw the 222 followers I just knew it was a sign. I’ve dreamt of this life since I was 13. I vividly remember telling my classmates I didn’t want to go to college and I wanted to backpack the world. I watched as they laughed at me and sooner or later I was left with no friends but still this burning passion. I can feel it coming to fruition more and more everyday.
Your storytelling and videography is stunning and I hope to one day do the same of my own❤️
222 is a sign i’m always looking out for, too…i checked my analytics the other day and it was 222,223 and i was like noooo so close 😅
I understood something recently. What I want is to feel rooted in the unfolding present, and feel solid, stable, at my core being unperturbed, yet flowing with all that I encounter. Emotions, thoughts, are the real time engagement with my encounters. Something that feels alive because it is me responding to this good day I have to live. It’s not about anything else. I have goals, dreams, wishes, stuff I yearn for. But this experience is all that truly matters. That’s how I love everything and everyone that truly matters. I feel that if I follow this state of being, that I’ll be met unconditionally by whatever the creative force is behind the universe. And I’ll have had a life with very few regrets. I encourage you to keep doing the same, and to keep knowing that it’s your perfect way to live. 💗
Thank you for this…for sharing your heart and the blessing of living your life in freedom and joy. I have followed you and Mariah since becoming aware of vanlife in November of 2020, just 9 months after my mother died. I was left an inheritance which allowed me to purchase my van in July of 2021. You and Mariah have inspired me most of all because you are willing to share your hearts, on your own terms. You honestly share about the good and the hard things, and have both navigated life on the road to a place of fulfillment and joy. I will be 70 next month. I am married, but my husband and I live very separate lives. It has not been an easy 51 years together. I have had a chronic illness since 1993. I purchased my van in North Carolina and drove it back home to California alone. It was so amazingly wonderful!…despite a fire in my van the 2nd night. (Fortunately, only minor damage). It is all part of the adventure. I have been having my van remade for me and, after I add my own personal touches, I plan to hit the road part time…shorter trips then a long 4+ month trip next year. The things you shared in this chapter resonate so deeply with me after 50 years of serving others. It is so hard to think it is a good thing to get away, alone, for my own adventures. But I know it deep in my soul that I need to do so, and that it is a gift. And you have helped me know it. Thank you for your willingness to share the beauty and wonder of your life!! I would not be on the precipice of my own adventure without yours and Mariah’s inspiration. I was so happy for you and Mariah when you became friends, meeting a need in each other’s lives. And I am just getting to “know” Anna as well, thanks to you two. May you continue to live the rich life you have discovered! (I just ordered “Into the Wild” 😊)
Your words are the distilled essence of a life lived according to you. Few truly arrive at the moment of clarity when they ask whether this life is what they wanted. Even fewer have the courage and means to walk away. You are right that ultimately, we are all heading to the same destination, so do what makes you feel alive now, with all the sorrow, happiness, and mundane existence that come with it.
Travel down the road you pick, just don’t eat berries you don’t recognize.
especially that last bit 🙏🏻
i have started watching you and Mariah religiously lately, and i just want to thank you both for showing me a light at the end of the tunnel i thought i would NEVER see
ok so now i actually finished the video and you mentioning being like “the old man living on the river” is what my family has told me i’m gonna end up like forever haha, and i can’t wait!
good times bad times like the black and white chess board take turns and will continue to end and beyond..i try and look at both same cause they both serve a function and a sense we need both and don’t have the insight to see clearly what it is we actually need but life teaches and does
I'm going through a big crisis in my life which I never imagined myself to be in. This video makes me feel alive again and I love the story telling. The world needs more people like you! Keep living🤗
This has been my absolute favorite video of yours. The story along with the shots and music were very moving. I've been conflicted for awhile on wether to pursue nursing or surround my life in the outdoors, filled with experience and exploration. I believe it's what I want, but it just seems so unreachable. This video gives me hope that someday I'll be able to.
I love how introspective and visually stunning your videos are!
This was a beautiful and touching video. I also love that you included Mariah and Finn. The three of you are my favorite free spirited souls. Happy travels and please stay safe.
Some of us are just born to wander. Happy that you're embracing it ,life is too short. Stunning scenery. Safe travels.
Thank YOU Christian for gracing my screen with your pastel pinks, it had been a while, I actually have missed your melding narrative and imagery. (how fitting for our Canadian Thanksgiving) The PNW (I assume) is such eye candy specially the way yo capture it, dreamy, soft and sometimes surreal. THANK YOU!!! Please don't EVER let anybody's comment deter you from living your life, the way, you see fit to live it. AND take good care of those eyes, you have a gift. 👀
Christian, your videos are purely magical and enchanting. The storytelling, the music, the emotions you convey, and the way you capture the beauty of nature. You are an incredible artist.
I get so stoked when I see you post! Girl, the quality of your videos is insane. Thank you for sharing this part of your life. I’ve had a banjo calling my name for awhile and keep putting it off. Time to get vulnerable and learn. I’m loving your hair, too.
I've re-watched this video several times and appreciate its quality and value even more each time. It is definitely one of your best videos so far, imo.
I just love your videos, you have this power of setting a specific mood instantly and it's so captivating, I could watch this for hours, especially now that it is getting colder, this is exactly the mood I want to be in, so thank you
With all your videos, you always inspire me to find my own path in life, just like you did. I hope everyone feels the same inspiration. This is something few people do in the modern world - make you think of what you want and makes you truly happy instead of following rules and society. This requires courage but the result, I'm sure, is true happiness and fulfillness. Thank you!
Christian, you thanked us for being here, thank you for being there. As the window of new opportunities closes, I live a life I never had through your lens and words. Again, thank you…
Again another beautifully done mini movie. You're my new favorite channel. I need to binge on all your older vids. Just so stunningly filmed, the story telling is riveting. love this so much
Simply...thank you for sharing your story Christian!
Your honesty is so refreshing and the editing, visuals, music, and narrative are just compelling. This is your best post yet! Thank you
🙏🏻🙏🏻
that hurt in the best way possible, thank you for telling your story and putting words to so many feelings that I haven't been able to describe in my own life journey
Christian! I love you and you're creations so much. It is a joy to watch your videos every so often. Thanks for being so candid and grateful. I wish you the best and hope to continue the ride of life with you.
"It doesn't take long to lose sight of your dreams, to trade curiosity for routine." That line hits a little too close to home. Cue my existential crisis.
AIl jokes aside, the level of introspection and depth of thought that you're willing to share with us is what makes this particular channel special.
PRETTY HARD TO PUT THAT MUCH BEAUTY INTO ONE VIDEO, GIRL, BUT YOU DID IT!! WOW!!!
Christian- it looks like you want me to contact you via Telegram, but I don't like to expose my contacts to social media. Also, Telegram appears to arise out of Britain and perhaps Dubai? Is there some other way that we can chat? I have some strengths, but social media familiarity is not one of them. I'm sorry.
as usual, you have told a story most wonderfully! and with beautiful photographic and musical accompaniment! thank you for sharing this very personal story. and I always just so love seeing you and Mariah together. I enjoy you both so much! Isn’t Fin just SO adorable? Looking forward to your next one, Christian!
Love this video so much! I watched it twice! I’ve seen into the wild numerous times but you have inspired me to watch it a couple more times. I hope you keep doing what you’re doing and find the peace and serenity you deserve. Best!
“Whenever you find yourself agreeing with the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.” - Mark Twain
This is my fav!! I’m probably going to have to watch it again!!!! The scenery is scandalous!! Your story? It’s yours, it’s lovely and sooo inspirational to those of us that don’t fit in exactly how we “think” we should! Wished I had stumbled upon this when I was 37! 66 now but it’s never too late!! Oh and don’t underestimate your guitar skills! I could listen to you play , repeat and repeat again and again…. Gotta go start looking for a full body mosquito net for Mariah…bye…
The story telling, the narration, the shots, Christian your work is so well done. Your channel was a big part of making the call to just pack up the car, the dog, and go explore on the road. I've also picked up the camera a lot more lately and started to do some filming (my childhood dream) for the first time and put it out there. Just wanted to say thank you for sharing and inspiring. I hope you've found somewhere warm to hunker down for the winter
I think the question that people need to ask themselves is are you happy with your quality of life. I love my quality of life. The ocean beckons me. I live in HI. I have little but have so much. I think most people are jealous of you really. Too afraid to do what you're doing. I moved to Hawaii at 26 years old with nothing but my wife and two small children. I made it. I've worked for a high end resort for 25 years now. Kids have families of their own and I still get to get out and play as much as I can. I applaud you !
Let no one define you or what's best for you. You are old enough now so you do you. Good on you !
I know I say this often, but this is my new favorite video of yours. So wild how some of the same notions came to us both at this time. Sending you love friend. Thank god you're 37, single, and living in a van down by the river. You inspire so many of us. :)
Thank you Lyss 🥲💕 so excited for the day our paths cross
Thank you Christian! I watched your video today and it gave me great insight as a healthcare professional. Without going into the excruciating details of what's been happening at my job, just know that your passion of freedom has sparked my passion for caring. I've read Into the Wild and watched the movie. None of us make it out alive, would you do it again if given the choice? My answer right now is yes. I care about helping people. I care about empowering and educating people to extend their lifespan with quality years instead of painful years. I care about my coworkers and their mental strengths that are challenged every day by the workload. Our strife is NOTHING compared to what our patients are going through. You make the most beautiful, thoughtful, inspiring videos!! I adore your channel. You have no idea how you are really affecting your audience. I will tell you. Please DON'T STOP YOUR CHANNEL. I am giving a link to your videos to my fellow healthcare coworkers and hope they are inspired as much as I am. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Keep up your amazing talented work Christian!!! We need you
Your videos get better and better Christian. Leaves me feeling like I can’t wait until your full length film. Keep living the dream and sharing, you’re helping people. I’m one of them. ♥️🙏🏼
This struck a chord deep in me. I've been thinking a lot about what expectations are on me as a person and which ones i want to fulfill or not lately and while i'm not there yet this gave me more food for thought, thank you for sharing ❤
Man, I feel like you just read my diary! I've been wrestling with the idea that I'm not living the life I'm meant to - and would do all over again - for several years now. I hope to return to that path next after trying to live the traditional life and adulting for the last 10 years. Thank you for sharing this. It's the story of you (part of you, anyway) beautifully told. Now, I need to read Into the Wild. 💚
Just beautiful! As an avid backpacker in my youth (bad side of 50 now), I remember reading Krakauer's book and tossing it across the campsite only to get up and keep reading where I left off. It just annoyed me how unprepared Chris was for his journey into the wild. Unlike Chris... You have your ducks in a row 🐥 Enjoy the wonderful life you have created and be safe 🍁
oh i don’t know about having my ducks in a row…i know how to survive on the road well enough, but in the raw wilderness? i have a whole lot to learn in that department
Profound and wonderfully captured as always. Thank you for taking us along your journey and for being so candid. Ohh, and I love the outtakes/bloopers at the end too. 😂
Such an easy subscribe! Your content is amazing! I'm on my own vagabond journey and your work and words speak volumes to me. Thanks for making such great content and putting your heart into your own life!
Christian, I’m always so inspired by your bravery and tenacity in pursuing a path less traveled. All my friends and family around me have followed the conventional path, and I always question myself if it would make me happy too, but I’ve never really come to an answer. I lived in a van for a few months this year, but corporate America called me back into the office, and just like that, it was over. A part of me was relieved, relieved I didn’t have to sleep somewhere new every night, or be without company for weeks at a time. But a part of me wonders, as I sit here, in my house - surrounded by other houses, whether the sacrifice of working 40 hours a week is worth all this. I know there’s a path somewhere, but I’m still sad I have to do it alone. I am an ambivert, craving love, but didn’t’ find any on the road, apart from a few amazing strangers that imparted me with their stories. At 35, I’ve never felt loved by anyone, as much as I feel loved when enveloped by the mountains. And it’s sobering. Thank you for your story.
That is all so very relatable 🤍 and really brave of you to share. I like to think the world would be such a different place if everyone was as honest and vulnerable as you are here 🙏🏻 much love to you
Wow! I have watched you get better and better over this journey with your production value and I honesty think at this point, you are one of the best on this platform. Fascinating story telling and absolutely AMAZING footage. These more documentary-esque videos are breathtaking. ❤ I want to see many more of these!!! 😊
You have shown me a new avenue for MY creative journey with these mini-documentary style posts. Your production value is so professional, and beautifully showcased
Wow thank you 🥹🙏🏻
This one left me a bit speechless and quite emotional. It speaks to me in so many ways, from appreciation for your intimate sharings to amazement over the fantastic cinematography. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself in the work of your art.
I never tire is hearing your voice or seeing your filmmaking. It’s both soothing and energizing at the same time.
Your outstanding artwork, sense, and sensibility of capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of nature as it is in photos and videos and delivering it to viewers are so incredible and lovely. 👍
thank you 🥲🙏🏻
Thanks for letting us into your world. Hope things are ok and keep working on that guitar. You’re doing better.
Thank YOU for being here! The quality of story and natural filmmaking/editing that you share with us is truly inspiring.
" ...The side of me that felt a kind of restless discomfort, and persistent desire to live outside the lines. To make sense of things in my own way, through experience, exploration, and escape." Thank you for normalizing this type of existence. One way of being out of endless choices. Hearing these words and watching your stunning photography brings me an enormous sense of peace. We must choose to live a life congruent with our true sense of self or "one day it might break me if I kept it all inside".
Thank you for this video. Not only one of your best, but one of the best I've seen on RUclips. I'm glad your grandfather rates high in your life. I never got to meet my grandparents; all four passed away before I was born. Good to see Mariah and her great dog! Please give us more vids like this.
You and your beautiful videos, I hang on every word.
Wow Chris! I had been waiting for your next video. This is beautiful!! ❤️ Especially the last comment ☺️
One of the most moving and touching things that I have seen on here. Your courage is amazing and your conviction just as strong. I am 100% sure that you are inspiring others through your content and leaving an indelible mark in the process. Your content is thought provoking and beautifully curated. I think you will reflect on a life well lived and in your own way, you will have moved the lines a little so thank you. ❤
“Who do you think you are?” “I am the chosen one” incredible storytelling parallel, very satisfying scene, Christian! Well done 👍🏼
i write voiceovers before i edit footage, so that one was completely on accident 😅 meant to be i guess
This video speaks to me now as I feel like I am at a cross road in my life. The feeling of stagnation, no motivation, and feeling utterly stuck in a place where you aren't supposed to be or doesn't feel like "home" (even if you're surrounded with family) resonated with me. And the yearning to experience "what's out there" is a feeling I've always felt. I felt a sense of responsibility to take care of my parents financially and to be financially stable myself especially after the 2008 recession and when my mom got cancer in 2011. I lived with my parents so that I can give them "rent" money rather than give it away to someone else. I thought this was the best way to help them financially while allowing myself to be financially stable. My parents are financially stable now and I am at a point where I can move out of my parents house. I've always yearned to move abroad to my parents native country and experience my culture which is exactly what I am trying to do right now. I am scared AF if things were to follow through lol.
Once again, your story telling is awesome! I think that is why i enjoy your videos so much. So much better yet when the stories are true. Thanks for sharing. and thank YOU FOR BEING HERE FOR US!
"it doesn't take long to lose sight of your dreams, to trade curiosity for routine, which is exactly where I found myself, frozen somewhere between the life imagined and the life I knew..." these words really spoke to me💗 Thank you for your beautiful and inspiring videos! I bought a vintage RV last year and started taking short trips already, soon I hope to entirely trade in the legal corporate desk job for "living". 🙏🏼🌟
Christian your vlogs are cinematic & emotive! The mist is incredible, nature is sensational! Thank u for sharing your personal story about your precious grandfather 😢 Great to see u evolving & happier! 💖🌻🇦🇺
At 17 and born in the '60's I thought the only way to change America was through a physical revolution until a little janitor boss, let me to Jesus. Then I believed in a revolution on the inside. At 17 I was nudged (?), called (?) to be a clinical social worker of which I still do part time at age 69, in Kentucky :). Nevertheless, it was part of the organized work world I guess, but never thought of it as such, due to a calling, which I hear still clearly today, to help others. You are the creative type, a special gift from God, created as He is creative. Glad you follow who He made you to be. Love to see His radiance come through you and your calling! Thanks deeply and for being so real. Be continually blessed!
Beautifully written, shot and edited. I felt I am with you all the time, listening beside you or watching you do things. Thank you for rekindling the passion inside me and for reminding me that life isn’t perfect, but it definitely needs to be experienced not calculated or predicted.
Thanks again Christian. Your words are again the inspiration I need right now! Nothing dramatic... Just that place in life that needs to change!
Christian.
I Love the way you do these Videos. Your Honesty, your Realness and just your natural personality. Even through my monitor, i can feel with you and enjoy the Wild Nature.
Im happy to see you having fun with Mariah.
Keep your head up and never forget your dreams.
I'm here because your outlook and spirit and this life "outside the lines" speaks to me. Inspires me. I've started foraying more and more into the natural world lately, questioning the comforts I keep, and putting greater value into experiences. Hearing your outlook helps affirm this aversion to the status quo which I feel... so thank you for sharing so beautifully.
Beautifully written, filmed and composed. It is a privilege to be able to peer into the window of your world. I am grateful. Good for you for listening to the voices of your dreams and encouraging others to do the same!
Beautiful video and great dialogue. You’re so awesome. Thank you for creating this and letting us peek into your journey. 💙
You are my favorite story teller- truth, honesty, and a life lens with a beautiful filter. ❤ Good for you!
Wow.! Your videos just keep getting better and better. This is my favourite so far. Very relatable.
Such an audio and visual treat to immerse into all this beauty you've showcased here...what talent. I also gained a deeper understanding of what got you out on the road in the first place, besides just "wanderlust" in its generic form. I appreciate your willingness to be vulnerable with your story, it can't be easy. By the way, you look so beautiful in brown hair....Love it!!
Christian, over the years I have come and gone from your channel between frustration and envy, similarity and confusion. I’ve been on the road for several years and have never been able to fully center myself to make the videos and tell the stories that I’ve dreamed of. I’m realizing more and more with your last few shares that I don’t have a choice anymore. I have been so moved by your messages, and I have my own that move me, yet I have been scared, limited, bogged down, blocked, etc.. I am so moved by your persistence despite deep and varying challenges. Thanks for inspiring me to to keep the dream alive.