I'm 26 and just paid off my student loans by working three jobs for four years. I'm exhausted but proud. Now my parents are pressuring me to buy a house because "renting is throwing money away." They've even offered to help with the down payment. Part of me wants to travel for a year while I'm still young and unattached. I've never been outside the country. I've never done anything just for me. But everyone says that's "irresponsible" and I should "build equity." I fought so hard for financial independence. Now I finally have it and everyone wants me to immediately tie it up in a mortgage. Am I being foolish to want adventure before settling down, or am I finally free to live on my own terms? — Finally Free But Feeling Guilty in Fresno

From Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great - Volume 13: Little Journeys to the Homes of Great Lovers

"Independence of mind is the foundation of dignity—do not accept limitations others place on you"

Virtue requires reason, and reason requires that you think for yourself. Your parents mean well, but their path is not necessarily yours. A house is security, yes—but security for what kind of life? Travel educates the mind in ways equity cannot. Make your choice with reason, not guilt.

From Nellie Bly's Book: Around the World in Seventy-Two Days

"Energy rightly applied will accomplish anything—and you have earned the right to choose"

I raced around the world because everyone said a woman couldn't. You worked three jobs for four years—you have already proven your responsibility. The house will wait. Your youth will not. Go. See the world. Return with stories and perspective that no mortgage can provide. Responsibility and adventure are not opposites.