Welcome to the first blog post on Blissful Miracles! I'm Joseph Hufnagl, and I am thrilled to share the beginning of my journey around the world with you. This adventure is not just about exploring new places but also about discovering deeper insights within myself.
What Has Happened So Far
Initial Plan and Setbacks
Two and a half years ago, I envisioned cycling around the world. I left a communal living situation but soon realized that I wasn't ready for such a monumental journey. It felt like I was escaping rather than embracing the world, and I needed to find a sense of abundance and purpose within myself first.
Finding Abundance and Readiness
In the late summer of last year, I began to feel a shift. I sensed that the time for my journey was approaching. I set a goal to start before my 35th birthday, understanding that delaying any longer might mean never embarking on this adventure. This period was crucial for internal growth and preparing myself mentally and spiritually for the journey ahead.
Planning and Preparation
Since the start of this year, I have been meticulously planning and preparing for the trip. This included purchasing an expedition bicycle, gathering necessary gear, and learning from others who have undertaken similar journeys. I also set a concrete start date and began addressing all the logistical details required for such a significant undertaking.
Decisions and Farewells
By mid-August, I made several key decisions: I resigned from my job, decided to leave my shared living arrangement, and planned to move from Switzerland to Berlin. This transition period was essential for closing one chapter of my life and preparing to start a new one.
Final Steps
In recent months, I finalized my preparations, including setting up my online presence and handling administrative tasks. Now, I am in the process of saying my goodbyes to the people and places that have been part of my life in Switzerland. These final steps are bringing everything together, making the journey feel more real and imminent.
60 Days to Go
Farewell to Switzerland
In the coming weeks, I will be saying goodbye to all the wonderful people I've met in Switzerland over the past two years. This time will be filled with emotional farewells and heartfelt gratitude for the experiences and connections I've made.
Moving and Storage
I will pack up my belongings and move them to Berlin, where I will store them at my parents' place. This logistical step is crucial to ensure I have a secure base while I am on the road.
Goodbye to Colleagues
Saying goodbye to my colleagues will be another significant milestone. I have enjoyed working with them and will cherish the professional relationships and friendships we've built.
Spending Time in Berlin
I will spend July and the first half of August in Berlin, focusing on quality time with friends and family. This period will allow me to reconnect with loved ones and enjoy the comfort of home before embarking on my journey.
Final Preparations
During my time in Berlin, I will also finalize my travel preparations. This includes ensuring all my gear is in order, tying up any loose ends, and mentally preparing myself for the adventure ahead. By mid-August, I will be ready to start my journey from Berlin, fully equipped and eager to embrace the road ahead.
Planned Route
First Leg: Berlin to Portugal
My journey will begin in Berlin, and I will cycle through the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Spain, and finally reach Portugal. This route will allow me to experience a variety of cultures, landscapes, and communities as I travel across Western Europe.
Key Stops: Plum Village, Tamera, and Ram Dass Community
Along the way, I plan to spend time at significant spiritual and ecological communities:
Plum Village: In France, I will join a retreat at Plum Village, the meditation center founded by Thich Nhat Hanh. Here, I hope to deepen my meditation practice and connect with like-minded individuals.
Tamera: In Portugal, I will visit Tamera, an ecovillage and peace research center. My stay here will be an opportunity to learn about sustainable living and community building.
Ram Dass Community: Also in Portugal, I will spend time with the Ram Dass Community, immersing myself in their spiritual practices and community life.
Flexibility and Adaptation
While I have outlined a rough route, I remain open to changes and spontaneous decisions. The beauty of this journey lies in its unpredictability, and I am prepared to adapt my plans as I encounter new opportunities and challenges.
Long-term Plan: USA, Panamericana, New Zealand, Australia, Southeast Asia, and Return to Europe
After completing the first leg of my journey in Portugal, I plan to continue:
USA: I will travel from the East Coast to the West Coast, experiencing the diverse landscapes and cultures of the United States.
Panamericana: From the West Coast, I will head south along the Panamericana Highway, traversing through Central and South America to reach Patagonia.
Pacific Crossing: Depending on the circumstances, I will either take a boat or fly across the Pacific Ocean to New Zealand.
Australia and Southeast Asia: My route will then take me through Australia and the vibrant cultures of Southeast Asia, with stops at various spiritual ashrams and monasteries.
Return to Europe: Eventually, I will make my way back to Europe, completing the global journey that started in Berlin.
Conclusion
Gratitude
I am immensely grateful for all the support and encouragement I have received from friends, family, and everyone who has been part of this journey so far. Your love and belief in me have been the driving force behind my decision to embark on this adventure. Thank you for being there for me and for believing in the power of dreams.
Call to Interaction
I would love to hear from you! What are your thoughts on my journey so far? Do you have any tips or experiences you'd like to share? Feel free to leave a comment below, ask questions, or share your own travel stories. Let's create a community of inspiration and support right here on Blissful Miracles.
Farewell and Teaser for the Next Post
As I prepare to take the first pedal stroke of this incredible journey, I invite you to join me in spirit. Stay tuned for my next post, where I will share the final preparations and the emotional farewells before I set off from Berlin. Together, let's explore the world, one blissful miracle at a time.
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