In July of this year, we gave up our rental of three years and became vagabonds. For some time, it has felt stifling to be in one place, and the lack of (physical) momentum creates a stagnancy that I don’t find comfortable. On the contrary, it is something I wish to avoid like the plague.
This is a manifesto for all those would-be vagabonds out there.
What is a vagabond?#
The Vagabond is one that does not have a permanent physical home but is right at home wherever he may be. The entire world is (and, as we shall see in Christian theology, is not) his home. He is not tied down with obligation that many self-impose upon themselves, subconsciously handcuffing themselves to a location, or a vocation, or a situation, or (in most cases) material objects.
He owns that which is essential, tools and things that are used every single day to get Him closer to the goal that he is presently focused on. The idea of owning things that are not utilitarian should make him recoil.
On things#
A vagabond will not purchase anything that limits his mobility or ability to easily leave the place he currently resides. Things should be utilitarian and serve the purpose of getting him closer to his goals and that which he is meant to do. The moment that an item goes against these principles, it need be considered a handcuff and thrown off at once.
The things that he owns should make life better, allowing him to create more and do the things that he loves to do, that which he and he alone is positioned to do. There is no reason to accumulate trinkets, paraphenalia, and collect (read: hoard) things that don’t tangibly make his life better.
This means that a car, a house, a refrigerator are not likely in the cards.
On clothing#
Clothing is a point of contention for so many, so let us outlay the ideals for this specific item set.
If I want to purchase clothes, they need go with what I already own, and compliment them. So, if I am to purchase a shirt, it should go with the pants and shoes that I wear daily. There is no reason to purchase anything with logos, I am not a billboard for other people, I am myself.
On views of society#
He will be misunderstood by most. That is a risk he is willing to take.
As we begin a year of travel, I look to the things that make me productive, that allow me to get more done, and go from there. I do not want things in my life, I want experiences that push the boundaries of my knowledge, allowing me to grow in Christ and into the person that I was supposed to be for Him