This website illuminates my life and adventures. My longing for freedom has led me to over 2600 of the world’s 3978 provinces, to every country on earth and to the summit of the highest peak on each continent (thank heaven for good weather!). In my travels, I learned to respect the intelligence and ingenuity of people of all races and callings both past and present. Come see the world as I see it: as a peaceful place, full of nature and beauty. With the right spirit and intent, we can make our world a virtual Garden of Eden.
DISTINCTIONS: BBC 2017 Travel Pioneer • Journal Articles • Explorer’s Club Flag Expeditions
World Parks Project • Walk Across South America • Jeff Shea Travel Map
Papua New Guinea, Gera Chief Castrating Goat, 1983 - Gera's chief castrated this goat. Although this photograph is grotesque, I felt it was important. The villagers clearly enjoyed the proceeding. At first I thought they were cruel and primitive for expressing joy while the poor animal screamed. Then I reflected that in my own modern society, many animals are slaughtered for food, but I am insulated from it. It takes place on ranches and in meat factories, far from the sensibilities of everyday people. In Melanesian society, the realities of survival were dealt with directly. It really was not more primitive, just more direct, hence more realistic. This was revelatory for me.
Slovenia, Zeleznika Prov, Church And Mountain
Slovenia, Bled Province, Flutist, 2006, IMG_6376 - The flawless pure skin of a young Slovenian clarinetist.
Afghanistan, Bakery, 2002 - This bakery was on a main street in Kabul. Customers shoved money through a small window and came away with delicious flat bread. The baker had a rough life; the oven was hot. I asked to come in to the raised baking area. My feet are at the bottom of the photo. I bought some bread and ate it with kebab sold nearby.
Bangladesh, Narsingdi Prov, Woman Traditional Dress
Tibet, Everest, Rabu La, Looking To Kanchenjunga, 1995 -
The Rabu La or Rabu Pass is a short walk, perhaps two hours, from Advanced Base Camp on Everest's North Ridge Route. The Kangshung Glacier heads off in the direction of Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain, visible on the left of the photograph in the distance. This photograph shows only part of the view. If you can, go there. It is truly an amazing place.
Turkey, Manisa Prov, Melons Behind Mesh
N Ireland, Newry And Mourne Prov, Farm
Azerbaijan, Gobustan Prov, Winding Road
Slovenia, Nazarje Prov, Pastoral Scene