Book 1 Post 1

My Life on the Road by Gloria Steinem.

I chose to read My Life on the Road by Gloria Steinem for many reasons. I grew up with a very different life from Steinem. My parents were both “military brats” who, like Steinem, were constantly moving and traveling. They lived in Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and almost every state in the US. Thus, when they started to build a family, they wanted the opposite. I lived my whole childhood in the same house and school. Although I did travel with my family, our trips were always very structured, with every minute planned. There was rarely any spontaneity or room to deviate from the schedule. In many ways, I am like my parents. My recent travel experiences have been for research projects or internships that help me achieve my goals, and I always view my future with a stable home and consistent job. However, a part of me still wonders, “What if…” Exploration is fundamental to the human spirit, and I want to investigate this adventurous side of myself, which is why I was so intrigued by Steinem’s story. 

Through this book, I hope I am inspired and equipped to travel more. As Steinem mentions, the road is not always welcoming to women. This is one of the main reasons I never travel alone and have missed opportunities to explore because I could not find a co-traveler. This book will not only empower me, but also teach me how I can enter the road safely as a female traveler. I am also excited to read about her encounters as they will broaden my perspective. 

So far, I am enjoying the book; it is well-written and engaging. Steinem’s emphasis on stories helps the book's messages stick with the reader. I was especially captivated by the first chapter about her childhood and father. Although her father was atypical in many ways, he helped shape Steinem into the activist and traveler she became. He taught her to appreciate the adventures and treat everyone with kindness. Steinem’s father also encouraged the exploration of the US, which is often overlooked and something I would like to do more. I am excited to read more about Steinem’s experiences and how they empowered her to become a leader of the feminist movement.