Write what?

“A blog,” the cheery reply.

Having a tenuous grip on technology, to my credit, I knew what was being referred to here. Can’t say my heart flew at the thought. Well not first up anyway.

Several days spent reading the world’s top blogs took me into rarefied air. Google it. I kept good company. Secure to be called a blogger (there’s been a lot worse), I am not intimidated. Now, to take the leap. What better time to start with a fifty-day adventure through Morocco, Tunisia and, Egypt about to begin.

As a kid my Mum would kiss me goodnight then whisper, “Never get married. You must travel. Travel.” It is pre-destined then my blog will involve travel rather than romance. Agh, but the romance of travel I hear you say. Relax, there will be many side track tours into areas tangentially related back to the central theme.

Now, the name. It needed to conjure a compelling, atmospheric image like a John Le Carré thriller; A Perfect Spy, The Honourable Schoolboy, The Tailor of Panama, The Night Manager. Then there is was; The Godless Traveller. Inspired isn’t it?

I am an atheist. I have no gods. Nothing is sacred. The stories, thoughts, ideas and opinions I express are compelled by social justice, human rights, dignity, equality, and compassion. I believe supremely in achievement through human potential. It means to learn, listen, be fearless. Be a responsive and responsible custodian of earth. You only get one go at this. It takes education, political will, and personal action.

For all this I am not a global nomad. Circumstances have changed enough now to make a dash before physical, personal, health, and financial borders close to me. I was content to read a National Geographic after which I could give precise on-ground directions to the best coffee house in Nigeria. I am imaginative, and I make things up. Travel doesn’t always involve leaving your home. It helps if you can, but it’s not an imperative. Many people read voraciously as a way of travelling and expand their horizons as they do.

Mark Twain said travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness. My wish is you live with an open mind and return here often.

Having said that, welcome to The Godless Traveller.

“Ya’ll come back now y’hear!”