Rochester, NY

Greece’s ‘seeker’ returns home – for now

October 21, 2004

He’s busy writing a book about his travels and plotting part two of his soul-searching adventure.

By MELISSA LANG / mlang@mpnewspapers.com

Andrew Harrison spent five months on the road, living out of a car and acquaintances’ guest quarters, interviewing people from all walks of life and amassing more than 80 tape-recorded conversations – and he did it all so you won’t have to.

“My goal is for people to realize, ‘Man, there’s more to life than just working for a paycheck,’” said the 1993 Olympia High School graduate. “The world would be so much better if everybody was doing something they were fired up about.”

The 29-year-old former sales executive left a lucrative job in Charlotte, N.C., and set off on a soul-searching tour of 22 states. Fueled by savings and an interest in other peoples’ professions, he put more than 18,000 miles on his Hyundai Santa Fe.

With business cards that read, “Andrew Harrison, Seeker,” he set out to find what he’s meant to do through discussions with folks on the frontlines, from judges and journalists, to scholars and senators.

Some called it courageous, others a “quarter-life crisis.” And now that he’s back in town, living rent-free at his parents’ Edgemere Drive home, it’s time to piece together life’s next chapter.

“I don’t know exactly what comes of this,” he said. “But for right now I’ve just got to write. Even if I don’t sell a book, I’ve got a record for my family to read, for my future kids to read.”

Since ending his journey last month, he has been busy transcribing notes and beginning work on a book about his experiences. He has a few chapters done and is looking to secure a literary agent and publisher.

“I’m hoping I can talk to younger people before they get those responsibilities that can limit your choices,” Harrison said. Single and childless, he is obligated to no one but himself.

The goal is to enlighten others, young and old – to show them how much some people love what they do, and how much happier their lives are for it.

“I feel like I’ve got to get this message out,” he said.

And while he admits he doesn’t have all the answers, he’s the first to insist there’s no harm in searching for some. Even when, as it has for him, money gets tight. Or when society’s pressures begin to wear.

“There are expectations on all of us to make money and have ‘things,’” he said. “And it can be hard when you’re not a part of the majority. Everyone has those internal battles.”

Still, Harrison said he’s got no regrets, and even hopes to set off soon on a second tour, funded by a book deal or not.

“Even if I have to get some job to save up for the next one, ” he said, “I know I’m on the right track. People, especially young people, need to know it’s OK to search for happiness. And I feel like I’ve found it.”

Visit Harrison’s Web site at www.IAmOnTheRoad.com .