@geniusloci No offense taken! This has actually been my favorite discussion on Steemit thus far because it challenges me and forces me to answer questions that people do not usually ask so thank you for this opportunity to grow.
I see where you are coming from and I agree with most of what you are saying. Truthfully I am going to be working on finding the answers to the questions you posed for a while. Personally, I will be looking into the different way to offset my carbon footprint throughout my mission. I realize that pollution is a major global issue and flying is making the situation worse... There are many pros and cons to this debate with travel that I plan on formally addressing in the future.
As far as the example I would like to set for children, I would like to focus more on the aspect of being able to achieve anything you set your mind to, regardless of your age/gender; rather than encouraging them to live an 'extreme' lifestyle.
On the subject of westerners caring about impoverished countries: obviously having access to the internet and witnessing homeless people in their own country is not having an impact on these people in a way that motivates them to improve these issues. I aim to become a social influencer. Someone to act as a role model demonstrating the impact one person who wants to make a difference can have on society. I want to start a new trend showing that global consciousness is 'in'. I want to encourage people to strive to do something greater than themselves and benefit people in need.
Thank you for this great debate, I took a lot away from it. I will be in Kathmandu for a few days in January and would love to get some coffee! Meeting someone that knows the area is always helpful. Hope to see you soon!
Hey there @lexiealford! Thank you for the detailed answer! I will be in Kathmandu in january and would be happy to show you around, I know it quite well by now! How cool would that be! I am quite active on Steemit, link me in a comment when you know where and when you will be! Would be happy to help with accomodation etc. as well. We should make this happen. Wow, see you soon ;)