For the past two weeks, I’ve been mostly MIA from blogging, lifecasting, twittering and other activities on the Internet. I believe it is therapeutic to disconnect occasionally from an overly connected world, take in the meaning of life, learn something about yourself and enjoy some quiet time alone or with friends.

I left Denver on November 17 to visit friends and family in Michigan for the Thanksgiving holiday. I was due to return this Tuesday, however, it appears that I’ll be staying through the New Year. During this time, I’ve spent most of my stay to date playing video games, eating at local favorites (and gaining weight), working with clients, watching TV (something I rarely do) and so on.

I’ve also done a lot of thinking about what I’d like to achieve in my life going forward, such as traveling the world permanently, exploring my desire for dual citizenship, becoming better fit and healthier, embracing new ideas and challenges, making new friends in Denver and beyond, and being more honest with myself and the world around me.

I am looking forward to what lies ahead of my feet, mind and eyes. I am ready to take on everything I love and am passionate about, while being liberated by everything I once allowed to hold me back, etc. This includes everything from “dream stealers” to public opinion. I’ve realized that all which matters in one’s life is the one who’s standing still when the sun goes down: You.

One thing I truly enjoy about blogging is the ability to release your inner thoughts. It doesn’t really matter who’s reading, what they think or how they view you. What matters most is that there’s an outlet to get out your feelings and thoughts into the universe, ultimately freeing “mental space” for more great thoughts, feelings, ideas and more.

Welcome to America, the land of an under performing and increasingly irrelevant currency, the American Dollar. As of today, a Canadian dollar is worth $1.0685 US, which means our friends in the Great White North have a great advantage on American vacations, shopping and more. What was once a luxury for us, is now being enjoyed by others at our expense.

Quickly, our currency is becoming the laughing stock of the world’s markets. It is also a strong indication that we’re heading toward turbulent times in the American economy — IF we don’t act fast, that is.

We are a nation of 300 Million strong, yet have one of the poorest performing currencies to date. Is America becoming irrelevant? Are we losing our image as the “Land of Opportunity?” Sure, we might have more wealth than anywhere in the world, but it won’t matter much if our currency continues its erosion towards worthlessness.

Is there a short-term solution? Highly unlikely. Long-term? Sure, but at a GREAT cost. We are no longer immune, America. Welcome to the beginning of real pain.