Today we introduce you to @madisonisbell. She is a traveler, collector surfer and all around awesome alligator.
When you were 18 you moved from Fiji to June Lake in northern California. Could you tell me a bit about that? Fiji had become my home at the time with a unique blend of rapture and stifling calm. On an island you get this sensation of being isolated as if your out on an invisible limb, everything you learn comes from or has association with the ocean. I knew it was time for change but I spent my formative years marinating with the pace of nature. Moving to the Eastern Sierras was a beautiful shift. Instead of that vast blue you are nestled in-between massive peaks of granite carved by glaciers. It dwarfs your sense of isolation and it calmed a lot of my late teenage angst...all those imaginary melodramas pale in comparison. I still live for that unavoidable sensation of knowing the universe is infinitely larger then ourselves.
What is paradise? Salty Skin Afforded Solitude Presence Good Books Clean Sheets Empty Horizons
What advice would you give to a woman who is thinking of traveling alone? Do it. Start in one place, get out of your comfort zone, and then stay a little longerโฆ Donโt over plan but do your research. Discard vanity, be aware of danger, and master any skills necessary. Bring a good book and an open mind.
What is good? Anything that is useful or brings absolute joy.
If you could ask god one question what would it be? Iโm spiritual, not religious, and on that statement alone Iโd have to ask a question about humanity. As a whole why are we so detrimental and disconnected from the natural world.
What is your earliest memory? Sunlight through overgrown bougainvillea on a porch.
What has been your best investment? My best investments have been anything that facilitated the experienceโs that I know will matter when itโs over. So far, good food - music - company plane tickets, my truck, surfboards, and dogs.
What is the best advice you have ever received? Everything in moderation, including moderation.
What are the most important lessons you have learned so far, in your career or life journey? Be motivated by hope rather then fear. It takes an insane amount of bravery to become kinder as we age, more at ease with ourselves and the world around us. Allow the mind to drop into the body whenever you can. Relish in the complicated layers, and donโt take any of it too seriously.
Describe empowered? Recognizing and owning that you are responsible for the quality of your own lifeโฆ There is a certain amount of self discipline required to be free.
What are some of the core values you think are important to live by? Practice gratitude, never stop learning, rest when you can, and simplify where possible.