Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost, But Some Are Finding a Better Life Abroad: Black Americans Seek Oasis Overseas

A Journey East: Why Leave the Shire?

Hoom hoom... A shadow stirs in the West they say but perhaps a different kind of shadow lingers in the land I once knew as America. It has come to my attention through the winds and whispers carried by the eagles that many Black Americans are seeking new havens across the Great Water. They seek a life where their very being is not met with the squinted eyes of suspicion a place where they are seen as 'American' first and not defined by the shade of their skin. This I confess is a most curious turn of events like hobbits preferring the taste of lembas bread to a good seed cake!

The Oasis Found: A Land of Milk and Honey?

Darcel Duncan of Travel Noire speaks of an 'oasis' – a sanctuary where these travelers can build lives of financial stability safety and inclusivity. 'Speak friend and enter,' as the gate of Moria once demanded. But unlike that ill fated door these new paths seem to lead to genuine prosperity. Adalia Aborisade finding refuge in Mexico City claims to have achieved the American dream… outside of America! Is this not a riddle worthy of Gollum himself? Perhaps the Precious is not a ring of power but a life of dignity and peace.

American First: More Than Skin Deep

Jamal Robinson dwelling in Dubai notes a fascinating phenomenon. He is seen as an 'American first,' his experiences celebrated rather than scrutinized. Cara West now residing in Greece no longer faces the shadow of suspicious gazes in shops. 'Fly you fools!' I might have cried in another context but here it seems they have flown to freedom from prejudice. It reminds me of when Pippin was celebrated in Gondor for his bravery.

Costa Rica and Beyond: Humans First Always

Kema Ward Hopper now in Costa Rica speaks of being treated as 'humans first.' In the United States she felt defined by her race a burden she no longer carries. 'Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised,' I once said but how much more might one achieve when deeds are celebrated not undermined by bigotry? This rings true even for the smallest of hobbits.

Time Money and a Family Reclaimed

Wanida Lewis in Ghana finds a slower pace a respite from the 'house on fire' urgency of American life. Nicholas Hopper speaks of a happier family gained back from the clutches of corporate grind. While earning less they live comfortably their money stretching further than in the Shire or rather the States. 'All that is gold does not glitter,' and perhaps true wealth lies not in coffers overflowing but in moments shared with loved ones and dreams pursued with passion.

A World of Experiences: Further Than The Shire

Cara West extols the richness of life abroad the tapestry of experiences woven from new cultures languages and traditions. This reminds me of my own travels across Middle earth. 'The world is not in your books and maps it's out there.' and so these brave souls venture forth seeking not gold or glory but a place where they can simply be. May their journeys be filled with light and may they find the peace that eludes them in their homeland. For even the smallest person can change the course of the future. Safe travels and good luck to them all.