Reluctantly Fearless: Tales of Traveling Alone Far From Home

Before boarding a plane to Sri Lanka as a missionary, John Buterbaugh thought he was embarking on a single adventure. Instead, he discovered a life shaped by countless journeys, unexpected friendships, and the remarkable kindness of strangers. It also led him to continue traveling the world to experience new things.In this engaging collection of travel logs and reflections, Buterbaugh takes readers from the mountain villages of the Philippines to the bustling streets of Mumbai, from the churches of South India to the vibrant congregations of Taiwan, from the glaciers of Iceland to the warmth of Turkish tea shops. Along the way, he hikes to hidden waterfalls, sings karaoke with locals, appears as an extra in an Indian film, worships with faith communities across Asia, and learns that some of life's most meaningful moments happen when plans give way to possibility.Through humorous misadventures, cultural discoveries, and heartfelt encounters, readers will experience:Photos of breathtaking landscapesEncounters in which strangers become friendsLocal foods, customs, languages, and traditions that reveal the heart of each destinationLessons about faith, hospitality, identity, and belonging in an interconnected worldWhether sharing tea with new friends, navigating crowded city streets, exploring religious sites, or reflecting on the deeper meaning of service and community, Buterbaugh writes with warmth, curiosity, and gratitude.Filled with memorable characters, fascinating cultural insights, and moments both humorous and profound, this book is an invitation to see the world not merely as a collection of destinations, but as a network of relationships that remind us of our shared humanity.Perfect for readers who enjoy travel memoirs, Christian nonfiction, cultural exploration, mission and service stories, and inspiring accounts of personal growth through international travel. Read more