Giving Yourself Permission To Dream
As a kid, I dreamed of traveling the world and telling stories, but there was no clear path to making this happen. I had role models who gave me insights into what living your dream life looked like, but no industry connections for telling stories. So, when I started down my path of living my dream life, I looked to my greatest roll models to figure out how they were able to live their dream lives.
Following your dreams is f%^&ing hard!
As a kid, I dreamed of traveling the world and telling stories, but there was no clear path to making this happen. I had role models who gave me insights into what living your dream life looked like, but no industry connections for telling stories. So, when I started down my path of living my dream life, I looked to my greatest roll models to figure out how they were able to live their dream lives.
My Mom: a stay at home mom (very privileged for this and beyond grateful)
My Dad: the founder of a $1M+ construction business
Together, they fostered a loving childhood deeply rooted in chasing your dreams.
My Mom's slogan, "never clip my wings" was often repeated to us and my Dad as a we grew up. She was filled with ideas and creativity that she needed to itch. The good news for my brother and I, it almost always had to do with a new meal or game.
My Dad wasn’t very vocal about is dreams, or vision, but he woke up at 4:00 am every morning, packed his lunch, and headed out the door by 4:30 am, or 5:00 am, depending on if he was going to the gym. Working all day building his business. Returning home sometime between 6 pm, or 7pm. Without knowing it, my Dad modeled the work ethic it takes to be successful.
I gave up all of my worldly possessions and moved onto a bicycle so I could become a student of storytelling.
How does this relate to following your dreams and how freak'n hard it is?
Well, my Mom's dream was to be a stay-at-home Mom and my Dad wanted to build a business he was proud of. So, I grew up watching these two model what it means to chase their dreams. While their dreams were different than mine, and yours, their actions gave me permission to chase my goals.
That permission to chase my dream is critical.
Why?
Well, if you don’t give yourself permission to chase your goals, you are not going to be okay with: 👉the criticism from others when you start
👉the fortitude to push through failures
👉accepting rejection as a not for me
These hurdles you have to jump over can be debilitating. When I graduated college and decided to be homeless so I could pursue a photography career, my friends and family were shocked. Often their words were not kind and stated I was throwing my life away.
From the outside, there is no question it looked like it.
However, I figured I would give this dream life I had visualized as a 12 year old a chance. I knew I would fail and that if I worked hard enough, I could push through.
Turns out, 8 years of being homeless is what it took for my to start living my childhood dream of traveling and telling stories.
Three years into chasing my dream life, I bought this van (with a loan from my Dad that I had to repay with interest) and slept on the floor in a sleeping bag. No shower, no running water, for 18 more months.
Don't let me fool you into thinking everything is sunshine and rainbows. It wasn't.
As a kid, I thought:
👉 people who owned magazines were rich
👉 it was fun to huddle on the bathroom floor for "slumber party" when the power was shut off
👉 playing with the display toys in Target and never bringing them home was normal
Only now do I realize those were sacrifices my parents made to chase their dreams.
Turns out, their actions wore off on my more than anyone could imagine because:
👉 I was homeless, by choice, for 8 years building my career as a storyteller
👉 lived on rice and vegetable soup cooked on a hand-me-down Coleman grill
👉 turned down a full-time teaching gig to live in a car and become a student of storytelling
While the journey has been f%^&ing hard! Building my career has culminated into something larger than I could have ever imagined. All of those sacrifices have been worth it now that I am on the other side.
However, if I had not given myself permission, stuck with my vision, and pushed daily for years, I don’t think I would be were I am at today. In fact, I know I wouldn’t be. Most likely, I would be a teaching math in Watsonville, CA.
The point at which I stated to feel like I had made it.
Photo 1: My Dad and I road tripping to Alaska so I could film my first documentary, Climbing For Furley, which is now on PBS.
Photo 2: My Mom and I in Antarctica. She was my plus one when I headed there for an assignment covering avian flu and cruise ships
While at the start of my storytelling career my Mom and Dad had questioned me so hard about the path I was on I often avoided having conversations with them, these two moments are the catalysts for me and my family connecting over what it is I had dreamed of doing.
After these trips together, they got a glimpse into how I work and the joy it brings me.
So, I challenge to you sit down with a notebook and ask yourself a questions:
What is your dream life (write this out as detailed as possible)?
What does “giving yourself permission” really look like?
How long would you be willing to sacrifice to see your dream life come to fruition?
About Dalton:
Dalton Johnson is a photographer, filmmaker, and writer.
Over the last 10 years, Dalton’s creative work has taken him to every continent, above the arctic circle, and below the antarctic circle.
His travels are documented in a free, weekly newsletter called UnBound, which is written for those daring to build their dream life.
Best Gear We Tested And Liked This Week
Gear is everywhere and it is hard to know what is “good gear” and what is “bad gear” so, I have paired up with a few gear heads to create a space highlighting the gear we personally tested and liked each week. Our gear recommendations vary widely from kayaks to climbing gear to dog treats, but they all have one thing in common; helping you adventure.
Our goal is to share gear that improves your ability to adventure.
Gear is everywhere and it is hard to know what is “good gear” and what is “bad gear” so, I have paired up with a few gear heads to create a space highlighting the gear we personally tested and liked each week. Our gear recommendations vary widely from kayaks to climbing gear to dog treats, but they all have one thing in common; helping you adventure.
Our goal is to share gear that improves your ability to adventure.
Without further adieu, we give you the best gear we tested this week:
Our standards for testing and reviewing at UnBound:
UnBound requires first person experience to review and recommend any product, destination, experience, etc. In other words, you’ll never read about a place or product that we have not touched, used, or experienced personally.
In the case a recommendation is sponsored, it will be clearly marked. With that said, sponsored reviews remain honest and true to editorial review. Meaning we share both, the good and the bad.
If you have any questions, or comments, about the product reviews, you can write me at:
dalton@dalton-johnson.com
Big Agnes Bikepacking Tent - I was one of the first to test
Earlier this year, Big Agnes called me with a desire to create their release promos for a new bikepacking tent, but, if you know anything about Big Agnes, they don’t like fake. So, the plan was to meet in Phoenix/Scottsdale for the Queen’s Ransom bikepacking loop.
Quick note: by no way is this a sponsored post, Big Agnes doesn’t even know this article is being written.
The crew didn’t have enough time to complete the full route, but we had three days. Which was enough to hit the trail, test the tents, and shoot the required photo & video assets for the launch of this new tent.
So, let’s dive into the good, the bad, and the indifferent.
The Good:
Fits on your handle bars and/or front fork
Second generation of this style, with several upgrades, including the bag with integrated straps for easy attachment
Large vestibule, easy to cook and store gear
The ability to use my bike as a stake, adds a bit of safety knowing I’ll wake up if somebody is trying to grab my bike
Daisy chains for my stinky clothing to dry
…
Heat It - After Bite Itch Relief
Kristin zapping away my bug bite itch with Heat It while camping. Photo by Dalton Johnson
The Germans have made adventuring in bug infested places a bit less itchy. What a strange line, am I right? Well, Heat It has made its way across the Atlantic Ocean and onto American soil with one goal, to stop your bug bite itching. Personally, I didn’t believe them, but it turns out, this “medical device” roughly the size of half dollar works.
While camping a couple of weeks ago, attached the Heat It to a keychain (the Nite Ize “g biner” if you are curious) and tromped through the Colorado woods. Of course, I got bit by a few bugs and they started to itch. So, we plugged the Heat It into our phone and gave it a zap. Instantly the itch was gone.
And for those of you wondering, not the “zap” doesn’t hurt nor does it make any sound. It just warms up the area and breaks down the enzymes a mosquitoe injects into you when they bite.
What Do You Need:
Heat It
a phone with the app downloaded
A simple and easy device with some of the best convenience I have ever found. Now, the Heat It just stays on my car keys, so I always have it just in case.
A few quick FAQ’s from friends since showing it off:
Is the Heat It safe for kids?
Yes, they have a kid mode. While I don’t have kids, I have witnessed a few use the device and they don’t seem to mind. In fact, many just use it as game and zap each other.
Does the Heat It drain my phone battery?
No, I used the Heat It a ton and my battery was fine. When I spoke with one of their reps, they said, “You can use it over 1,000 times on full strength and still have battery left over.” I didn’t fact check them on this front.
Can you use the Heat It on multiple bites?
Yes and you should, that is what it’s for.
What if the itch does not go away at first?
Personally, I didn’t have this happen for me, but if you did, increase the strength and zap yourself a second time. Just give 5 minutes between “treatments”.
Chestnut enjoying an afternoon on the water while SUPing with Dad.
Roka Sunglasses: Clocked in 9 miles yesterday with about 700 feet of vert for an afternoon trail run at 6,000 feet. Turns out, these sun glasses don’t bounce off your face when you run. Novel idea, right? Roka crushed it and that’s why I have been repping their sunglass for the last two years. Order your Roka Sunglasses by clicking here
OutIn Espresso Maker: I made ice cream a couple of weeks back for the sole purpose of having an afternoon affogato as a pick me up. Bousie, I know! But, this wouldn’t be possible if I didn’t have the OutIn. As I am kinda lazy and often forget to charge the OutIn, but I figured out the cheat code. Put hot water into it, press the button, and about 30 seconds later, it’s affogato time! Order your OutIn Espresso Maker by clicking here
Bote Paddle Board: Yup, we all know I am sucker for some paddle boarding and I have been using the Bote WULF Aero for the whole summer because it packs small and fits in the back of the van. Order your Bote Paddle Board by clicking here
Backflipping into Lake Tahoe at Bonsai Rock while chilling in the sun on the Crazy Creek AirCliner. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Crazy Creek AirCliner: I have been taking this inflatable chair everywhere with me over the past two weeks because it’s just so dang simple! Two, maybe three breaths, the chair is full. It can float and it’s water resistant, so it makes for the perfect on the go chair here in South Lake Tahoe.
JoGo Coffee Straw: Ummm can coffee get any easier? Instead of using my french press, I have been using the JoGo. Toss the grounds in, add hot water, wait a minute, sip. Refill with hot water for more coffee. My go to coffee right now is from Cat & Cloud roaster in Santa Cruz, CA.
Paka Aire Long Sleeve: In the morning I do some rope flow outside and it’s chilly, so I wear this long sleeve shirt from Paka and it’s unbelievably soft and warm. Perfect for summer mornings outside.
Malibu Sandals: I have to admit, these things look kinda of ridiculous, but I have been loving these sandals at home and in the van. For about a year, I have worn them off and on because they are simple and easy to use. Slip on and stay on. What more could you ask for in a sandal?
Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Sun Hoody: For the last few days of playing outside here in Lake Tahoe, I have been wearing this sun hoody instead of sunscreen. While I don’t think Mountain Hardwear would say that is okay, I haven’t gotten sunburnt and this shirt is holding up against the sharp rock.
Dueter Guide 24L: This pack has become my go-to for big and small climbing missions around Lake Tahoe. It holds almost everything I need and fits my body really well.
Arc’teryx Konseal SL Hoodie: This hoodie has become my go-to layer that I can’t live without. I’m not just saying that either. While I love most Arc’teryx products, they outdid themselves on this one. It’s warm, the hood makes sense, and it’s so comfortable I wear it like a sweatshirt as well.
Tamron 150-500mm Lens Review
When I drove to Alaska with my dad and later returned with my girlfriend Kristin, one thing remained constant: the Tamron 150-500mm lens was always attached to my camera. If there’s one thing you learn quickly on a road trip to Alaska, it’s that wildlife can appear at any moment. Whether it’s a bear lumbering along the roadside, an eagle soaring overhead, or a moose grazing in a meadow, you’re constantly surrounded by incredible opportunities for wildlife photography. Wildlife doesn’t announce itself—it’s a sudden moment, and if you’re not ready, you’ll miss it. That’s why I trusted the Tamron 150-500mm lens to stay on my camera; it gave me the ability to react quickly and confidently.
With the Tamron 150-500mm, I could capture these fleeting moments with ease. The versatility of its focal range meant I didn’t need to scramble to switch lenses or worry about missing the shot. One second, I’d be zooming in on a distant eagle perched at the top of a tree, and the next, I’d be framing a close encounter with a black bear grazing by the roadside. Having a lens like this ensured that I was always ready to document the beauty and unpredictability of Alaska.
Oru Kayak Lake
Kayaking on the Owen’s River near Highway 395 in California. Photo by Dalton Johnson
I never expected to recommend a foldable kayak, but after two weeks of kayaking during a road trip along Highway 395, I’m officially a fan. These kayaks are impressively sturdy and simple to use. When folded, they fit neatly in the back of a van, making them a great option for road trips or limited storage. Best of all, they allow access to waterways and spots you might not otherwise reach. Think of them as a more stable alternative to an inflatable SUP, offering the benefits of a kayak without requiring expert balance.
Initially, the setup felt time-consuming, but with practice, we reduced it to just five minutes. Their convenience and functionality completely changed the way we approached water adventures on our trip. Whether gliding across mountain lakes or exploring hidden coves, these kayaks proved to be a reliable and practical choice. If you’re looking for a way to combine van life and water adventures without sacrificing storage space, a Oru Kayak Lake is worth considering.
Sonos Ace Review
The Sonos Ace headphones have quickly become an essential part of my daily life. Over the past three weeks, they’ve seamlessly transitioned between my writing sessions, workouts, and long flights. Beyond their superior audio quality, they’ve become a surprising companion for outdoor activities in snowy weather, doubling as ear warmers during chilly morning driveway shoveling or dog walks. It’s rare to find headphones that adapt so well to every facet of life, and the Sonos Ace has truly excelled in this regard. The only notable limitation is that they are not designed for endurance adventures like ski tours or running.
One of the standout features is the impressive battery life. These headphones endured a grueling 36-hour journey from Egypt to California with ease, still retaining 25% battery at the end. This reliability is invaluable for travel or long workdays when charging opportunities might be limited. Coupled with their comfortable design and durable build, the Sonos Ace effortlessly meets the demands of both everyday use and more strenuous activities.
My personal favorite realization with the Sonos Ace is that they’ve rekindled my love for music. The immersive sound quality encourages me to carve out moments just to listen—whether lying on the couch and savoring an album or rediscovering tracks I’d forgotten I loved.
Solo Stove
We have been driving around with the Solo Stove Ranger in the back of our converted Dodge 2500 Promaster for two years now and use it every chance we get. The Rangers is the smallest of the Solo Stoves making it the most portable. In other words, this was made for vanlife. Thus far, our favorite trip with the Ranger Solo Stove has been to Sedona, AZ where we camped in the free dispersed camping areas surrounding Sedona. During the day we went for rad adventures like UTV rides, helicopter rides, mountain biking, hiking to caves, and swimming in the river. That trip was a dream come true, but the cherry on top was returning to our campsite each night to have a campfire with the Ranger Solo Stove.
One of the most prominent memories from that trip was waking up and feeling dog tired. We had hiked in a rain storm the day before and were drenched to the bone, so we wanted to have a slow morning and a big breakfast. With the Ranger Solo Stove already set up, we put the cook top on it and started to boil water for coffee, fry some eggs, cook some sausage, and make some pancakes. That was a morning I don’t think I’ll ever forget! You can read about that stellar morning in this article.
Nike ACG Torre Mids
Nike
I’m not a sneaker geek, so when I say I had never heard of Nike’s ACG line, please don’t shoot me. For those of you like me, ACG means All Condition Gear and is an older line of shoes that flies under the radar, but are designed for heavy outdoor use. When the Nike ACG Torre Mids came into my life, I was uncertain at first. Their weight, the suede sides, and the fact that I had never heard of these really made me think twice before taking them outside for a hike. However, I bucked up and took these boots on a backpacking trip traversing Lake Tahoe’s Desolation Wilderness.
For two nights and three days, covering more than 30 miles with a heavy pack on my back, I explored the granite landscape.
I was pleasantly surprised by the performance of these shoes!
My feet never hurt. I didn’t get any blisters. The NIke ACG Torre Mids didn’t breakdown, but the suede did get a bit messed up. Also, the high ankle support saved me a few times while on the rock sections of the trail. Long story short, these boots passed my test and I would use them again for day hikes and shorted backpacking trips where weight doesn’t matter.
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I Was The First Tester for Big Agnes's Newest Bikepacking Tent
Earlier this year, Big Agnes called me with a desire to create their release promos for a new bikepacking tent, but, if you know anything about Big Agnes, they don’t like fake. So, the plan was to meet in Phoenix/Scottsdale for the Queen’s Ransom bikepacking loop.
Earlier this year, Big Agnes called me with a desire to create their release promos for a new bikepacking tent, but, if you know anything about Big Agnes, they don’t like fake. So, the plan was to meet in Phoenix/Scottsdale for the Queen’s Ransom bikepacking loop.
Quick note: by no way is this a sponsored post, Big Agnes doesn’t even know this article is being written.
The crew didn’t have enough time to complete the full route, but we had three days. Which was enough to hit the trail, test the tents, and shoot the required photo & video assets for the launch of this new tent.
So, let’s dive into the good, the bad, and the indifferent.
The Good:
Fits on your handle bars and/or front fork
Second generation of this style, with several upgrades, including the bag with integrated straps for easy attachment
Large vestibule, easy to cook and store gear
The ability to use my bike as a stake, adds a bit of safety knowing I’ll wake up if somebody is trying to grab my bike
Daisy chains for my stinky clothing to dry
The Bad:
I want more pockets. There are already enough pockets, but I’m a pocket guy in a tent, especially if I am sharing a tent
The Indifferent:
The colors. Overall, I’m used to Big Agnes having tents that pop and these tents are more stealth. The crew loved the color, but I was indifferent
My Actual Thoughts:
Who Is The Big Agnes Bikepacking Tent For?
The first question that came to mind when I grabbed this tent was, “Do I really need a separate tent for bikepacking since I already have three other tents?”
Honestly, no.
Why?
I only bikepack one, maybe two times a year so dropping $500-something on a fourth tent for two long weekends a year isn’t worth it to me. However, if I were to go on a long bikepacking trip, say a 30-60 day trip again — I cycled around New Zealand, partway across the US, and a few other longer trips — I would invest in a this tent. Having a tent made for a bike just makes sense.
Knowing this tent exists, when I plan that next big trip, which is brewing in the back of my mind, I would get this tent. Most likely the Tiger Wall UL2.
If you are buying this tent, bikepacking is you main activity or you’re headed out on a longer trip.
Will The Tent Hold Up?
After three days in the desert, I can’t fully answer this question. With that said, every Big Agnes tent I have owned, which I think is roughly 10 or 11 at this point, has lasted several seasons of wear and tear, crazy storms, and harsh ground that would tear most tent bottoms (I’m not a fan of ground traps unless I am cowboy camping).
Also, Big Agnes has a great warranty/repair program, so if something does happen, they got your back.
Final Thoughts
If you are in the market for a tent and love bikepacking, this should be at the top of your list. Very few competitors come close to the comfort this tent provides. Sure there are a few lighter tents on the market, but you will sacrifice comforts like bug net, vestibule, daisy chains to air your gear, etc. While those seem like little things that don’t matter, trust me they make a world of difference!
Bugs suck, it’s nice to escape them and get a good night sleep.
Vestibules are critical for storing gear when it rains as well as cooking in non-ideal weather
Daisy chains… just think about putting on wet gear, from your sweat the day before, that has sat in a bundle in the corner of your tent. Rash-city-baby!
"Opinion" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Opinion" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
OPINION
What is that, which I hear? A voice cries out,
to my brothers, to the world.
It screams!
It shouts!
It has an idea, a voice, a thought; which has developed,
over time.
Development which manifested inside, too long.
But where does this voice come from? Is it billowing out, fromme?
It seems to have been noticed and heard. But, what am I saying?
My voice becomes clear, Oh No, That’s Not Good!
IT’S MY OPINION Slipping through my teeth, for the world to hear.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Death By Societal Norms" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Death By Societal Norms" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
DEATH BY SOCIETAL NORMS
Weighed down by societal norms, struggling to stay afloat;
mouth, nearly breaching the water’s surface. A gasp for air, afraid it will be
the last.
Thoughts, dreams, memories, hope, all clear
the mind, as the water’s surface floats too far
above the head.
A flash of what life could have been, if only, societal norms weren't pulling me down.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Bottled Up" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Bottled Up" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
BOTTLED UP
My emotions dwell inside,
Like a glass bottle with the cap too tight, Resting atop a hot plate.
The plate turns on And I get heated.
With the cap so tight
There is no way
For the building gas to escape.
The pressure builds and Builds and builds, eventually The only solution is for
The bottle to burst.
From inside of me,
There can be only one result,
That of death from the shrapnel shards of broken glass.
Unless, somehow,
I can pop my top and Release these emotions, free.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Rocking Vessel" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Rocking Vessel" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
ROCKING VESSEL
Rocking atop the deep blue, it floats.
Waves crash into its sides, rocking everything, from side to side, however
it could be empty.
If the vessel is empty, it will float on practically forever.
However, if loaded, it may sink to the deepest, darkest depths. Where nothing is recoverable; where nothing can live.
The catch...
If it remains empty,
the vessel will be worthless.
Transporting nothing, wandering
the ocean till the waves deteriorate its wooded sides, and consume the vessel, to the darkest depths.
So, why not take the risk?
The results are the same, one path, just takes longer!
So, load your vessel and set sail.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"What I Lie About" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"What I Lie About" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
WHAT I LIE ABOUT
I lie to myself that: Iamokay, Iamhappy,
I am content,
I am impressed.
For I live in a haze
of lies, which clutter my mind so that I am able to
trudge the streets.
Don’t get me wrong,
I am truthful with others but, I might not be completely.
For I have lied to myself
for years, just to protect
me from the things which
I have not wanted to think about.
Things like:
sex, booze, friends,
family, my future, my present, my life choices.
For I have chosen a life which is hard to live; filled with hardship, loneliness, prosperity, and a lack of self-reflection.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Finding My Home" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Finding My Home" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
FINDING MY HOME
You have always told me,
that I will never find a place, as beautiful, as this; your home.
Here all the seasons come and go,
the ponds freeze then melt which feed the roaring rivers. Flowers bloom and bask in sunlight,
while the birds flutter through the clean air.
Yet, I have never found, your home, to be beautiful.
Yes, there is natural beauty,
which surrounds you,
where-ever you wander.
But, this beauty does not suit me.
I have disliked living here, and growing up here.
The people are unmotivated, unhappy, and full of complaints.
Life here, is nonexistent.
The ones who live here, merely survive,
nothing is living.
There are only the ones who have lived and those who want to live. But there is no life, here, in your home.
This is why, I need to go, like the fluttering birds, and search for my home.
A home which I can find, beautiful.
Where I can settle and tell my kids, what you have always told me, about your home, only
it will be mine.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Crowded Places" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Crowded Places" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
CROWDED PLACES
Together among a crowd seemingly meaningless, all people:
chat,
exchange stories,
become friends, and fall in love,
sometimes.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Useless Knowledge" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Useless Knowledge" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
USELESS KNOWLEDGE
As I sit, I see rows.
Rows of knowledge, line the room.
In these rows, you can learn, anything, your heart desires.
Endless possibilities, line this room. All you have to do, is sit and learn.
As I sit, from my comfy chair, I indulge, in the endless rows.
You could say, I want to learn. But truly, I want to burn.
Personally, I don’t want to burn, but, I want to burn,
the endless rows, that teach me nothing.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"A Force" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"A Force" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
A FORCE
It is a force, to read: book after book, page after page, paragraph after paragraph, line after line,
word after word.
It is a force, to ask: for composition, regurgitation, explanation.
Teachers, you ask this of us,
yet, you know we don’t care.
You know, we are forced here, to learn what we do not care.
It is a force!
It is a force, to express: ourselves,
our hearts,
our soul.
It is a force, to demonstrate: how much we care, how much you mean, how important you are.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"After All Have Gone To Bed" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"After All Have Gone To Bed" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
AFTER ALL HAVE GONE TO BED
I
Where does your mind wander,
after all have gone to bed?
Are you counting sheep,
along with those asleep? Or,
are you thinking about love, pursuit of happiness, prosperity?
Do you sit in a chair
to reflect the days deeds,
asking yourself if you were good,
or bad? Or,
do you drown your sorrows away with the last fluid ounces residing in your whiskey jar?
II
For my young mind, still driven by my hearts-desires, ponders preposterous questions unanswerable to all except time.
Only Time knows what will happen, who I will love, who I will marry, what I will
do, what I will make.
Time understands that the Present is the main character, who will receive the credit for Time’s work.
For Time is the one calling the shots, figuring out the
angles and settings.
Time just hopes Present will do a good job concealing the plot. Because what movie is worth watching if both the journey and conclusion are revealed?
None!
However, my young, foolish mind
still ponders these preposterous thoughts because I am still
learning:
how to live in the present.
how not to worry about uncontrollable matters.
how to live without fear of myself. how to live without fear of failure.
how to live dedicating my body, mind, soul to the life I want to live.
III
Now, what about you? Where does you mind wander
after all have gone to bed?
Does your mind follow
your heart? Ask itself preposterous questions, as I do myself? Or, do you
count sheep in your dreams
along with those resting atop their
beds and below their covers?
Or, are you unable to sleep because you lay on cold ground every night, under the night sky dying a slow death of hunger and hypothermia?
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Lionhearted Souls" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Lionhearted Souls" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
LIONHEARTED SOULS
Organically creating timeless traditions By the heart of a righteous soul.
Fighting war with peace,
Saving millions by out-speaking The spoken absurdities, challenging The unchallenged normalities.
Fearless women and men Hand-selected by their Followers.
These lionhearted souls
Cursed to travel the arduous Mountain pass,
Forsaking society, and Spreading their words
Of change, creating cyclicly new Traditions.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Diverse Similarities" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Diverse Similarities" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
DIVERSE SIMILARITIES
He is black, I’m white.
We are sitting, across from each other Observing, one another.
But we are both, on the train,
Nothing is different Between us. Except, where we hail.
He is a father, I am a son.
He teaches his daughter, The same teachings, My father Taught me.
So why do people say, That we are different?
The teachings of both fathers, are the same, My dad just made more money.
Does money, really make a difference? Does money, affect ones success?
My father’s hard work, Has privileged me.
Does this mean his daughter, Won’t be more successful than me?
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"When All You Crave Is Success" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"When All You Crave Is Success" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
WHEN ALL YOU CRAVE IS SUCCESS
It burns deep,
deep inside of my gut. There is a desire,
a desire to succeed.
But succeed in what? I desire to succeed, at what I love.
And what is it, which I love?
I love the taste of success,
I love to sweat,
I love the tears I shed in pain,
I love the sensation, my body feels, after I succeed.
I LOVE THE FIRE IN MY GUT!
This fire is never ending, only revitalizing!
So then,
Am I ever in love?
Or, am I always succeeding? Or, am I never succeeding?
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Emptiness" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Emptiness" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
EMPTINESS
My body wanders streets and converses with others but only my body.
I’m an empty sack of skin and bones wandering the streets like a zombie. Moving without a purpose throughout society.
There is nothing to me besides my body sack,
I have no soul, no beating heart, I am connected to nothing.
I go through the motions,
proceeding day in and day out without a purpose.
Only to live an empty pointless life.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April
"Sermons of Peace" a Poem by Dalton Johnson
"Sermons of Peace" is a poem by Dalton Johnson published in his first book 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. This article also has a video of Dalton reading aloud his poem. You can purchase this book on Dalton Johnson's website or on Amazon.
SERMONS OF PEACE
I
Off the cliff it falls, tumbling Down the mountainside, on course To the ocean residing below.
Plunging in to take a swim, it sinks
To the bottom like a rock. No struggles, No resistance, it sinks to the depths.
For the oceans density does Not support and its buoyancy is Not enough to float on.
II
Made from Mother Earth
Its lost old soul belongs to this World. Destined to search
The lands and speak out against Inequality, in the name of love.
The soul has hardened
Over the years, but its ready to take
The plunge into the unsupportive waters Without resistance.
The soul is ready to tread among the water, Struggle through thick and thin.
The soul is ready to preach peace at sermons of unconditional love.
For a destiny is a destiny, one Cannot deny their calling.
Order Your Copy Today: Buy on Amazon
Order Your Signed Copy Today:
Get your signed copy of 51 Poems For Humankind To Think About. Dalton Johnson's first book of poetry. These 51 poems are his critique of American hustle culture told from the perspective of a young man returning to the world after years of living off the grid on less than $500 a month.
These poems capture the internal battle of consumerism, American greed, humans loss of connection with the natural world, and pokes fun at some of the absurd cultural norms of adulting. Each poem touches on different parts of American's superficial society in hopes of promoting the change from group thought to individuality. For it is at the individual level Johnson belives you unlock your true self.
As you read these poems take some time to think about what stirs inside of yourself to find where you can change and grow into the human you want to be today and tomorrow.
Please Note: Signed paperback will be shipping the middle of April, 2025 and should arrive by the end of April