Create your own version of “Expedition Unknown” as you reach out to connect with others.
Meaningful relationships and gatherings used to be abundant, even in the not-so-distant past. Today, they seem like rare and often elusive treasures. For many of us, building relationships and community in our disconnected world can feel like sailing off into uncharted waters, much like an expedition into the unknown.
Even though it has been on Discovery Channel for more than a dozen seasons, I’ve only recently discovered “Expedition Unknown” thanks to my wife, Kathy. Host Josh Gates is an archeologist with an Indiana Jones vibe, although his real-life adventures are considerably less dangerous than in the movies–but still fun to watch.
In his search for missing “treasure,” Josh’s gift is his ever-present enthusiasm. For him, each episode is an epic quest, whether hunting for a lost WWII aircraft or an outlaw’s buried loot. Even the smallest find, like a chard of pottery or an ancient nail, is a cause for celebration. While watching the show, Kathy and I have fun joining in on one of his most uttered exclamations: “It’s a coin!”
What if each of us created our own people-focused version of “Expedition Unknown,” where we rediscover the thrill of finding new contacts or reconnecting with others? Perhaps, if we try to imagine each interaction with others as a small treasure to celebrate, our social efforts might become less of a chore and more of an adventure.
Our efforts might start small, like striking up a conversation with a cashier or server. Or paying someone a compliment. Or stopping to say hello to a neighbor. I’ve discovered that even something as small as making a positive comment or direct message on social media can lead to a treasure trove of future friendship activities.
For these adventures, you probably won’t need to dress in full expedition-mode like Josh Gates, but you could still create a visual reminder that you are on a continuing adventure. For years, I have displayed an official Indiana Jones hat in my study, perched on the end of a telescope. Although most of my projects revolve around ideas, words, and images, the hat reminds me that what I do can be just as adventurous as those who unearth more traditional treasures.
If you are at a loss for where to begin your regathering adventure, visit the “Try This!” page on this site or scroll through some of our other blog posts.
Remember, all adventures big and small begin with a single step. Take yours today.
You are invited to share any of your “tales of adventure” in the comment section below. Thanks!
Patrick Klingaman
The Regathering Project: Let's Transform the World, One Relationship at a Time 