It's great that people are basically spending their two weeks of

“It's great that people are basically spending their two weeks of vacation to come out and be with us in some weird part of the world. And I think we owe it to them to take 'em to some cool places.” These words from Jeff Ament carry a deep sense of responsibility and appreciation for those who dedicate their time and energy to something outside of themselves. The idea that people are willing to invest their precious time in coming together to share an experience—be it a concert, an event, or a journey—speaks to the human need for connection and shared meaning. Ament’s acknowledgment of the effort these people make calls upon the ancient wisdom of hospitality, gratitude, and respect for those who seek to join us on our path, even for a brief time.

In the ancient world, the act of hosting guests was held in the highest regard. The Greeks, particularly in their hospitality code (xenia), believed that to welcome a stranger was a sacred duty. Zeus, the king of the gods, was said to be the protector of strangers, and he rewarded those who extended hospitality to travelers, seeing this as a reflection of divine values. Ament’s quote reflects this ancient ideal—those who come to be with us, to share in our experiences, should not only be welcomed, but taken on a journey that enriches their souls. The value of shared time and space is something that transcends the individual—it becomes a community experience that honors both host and guest.

Take, for example, the great journeys undertaken by explorers such as Marco Polo, who, when traveling the Silk Road, was not just looking for material riches, but also to share in the exchange of culture, ideas, and experiences. His journey was not just about seeing the world, but about connecting the world. Like Polo, Ament sees that the journey, whether to a distant land or an unexpected corner of the world, is more than a physical trip—it is a shared experience between the traveler and the host. In ancient times, these exchanges were seen as honoring one another, forging bonds that would last beyond the journey itself.

In more modern times, we find the same spirit of connection in the acts of those who bring people together for experiences. Mahatma Gandhi, who led the people of India with humility and conviction, understood the importance of a shared vision. His salt march was not just a political act, but a call for unity—an act that brought people together across social and geographical divides. He too understood that the future is shaped by the connections we make, the experiences we share, and the mutual respect we show each other. In a similar vein, Ament’s reflection on his role as a host and guide to those who come to share in his journey speaks to the power of shared experiences in shaping lives.

Ament’s recognition that people are giving up precious time to travel to what may seem like unusual or remote places speaks to the value of sacrifice—the sacrifice of time, effort, and energy. This notion of sacrifice in service of others is a central theme in many ancient teachings. The Buddha, for example, emphasized the importance of selflessness and compassion. His teaching called for individuals to live with a spirit of generosity, not just in material goods but in time and energy. The same idea is reflected in Ament’s words: the time spent in service to others, whether through music, hospitality, or any form of connection, is a form of noble offering.

The lesson here is clear: when others invest their time and effort in being with us, we have a responsibility to honor that investment by making their experience meaningful. Whether in a professional setting, a personal relationship, or a communal gathering, it is our duty to show gratitude and to create experiences that are worthwhile. Ament’s insight is not just about taking people to “cool places,” but about ensuring that the time and energy others give to us is met with the same level of respect and effort. This is the heart of hospitality—creating moments that resonate deeply with those who join us, ensuring that their presence is celebrated and their time cherished.

In practical terms, this can mean taking the time to ensure that every interaction, every shared experience, is meaningful. Whether it’s in our professional lives, when we meet clients, colleagues, or partners, or in our personal relationships, we must recognize the value of time—both our own and others. We must make each moment count, ensuring that those who choose to share their time with us are valued. Just as a host shows the best of what they have to offer, so too should we offer the best of ourselves—whether it’s through thoughtful conversation, shared adventures, or simply being present in a moment that celebrates connection.

Let us remember that life is not just about the individual journey, but about the connections we make along the way. Whether we are the guest or the host, the shared experience is the true value. Gratitude and respect are the pillars upon which these connections are built, and through them, we create a world that is richer and more meaningful. As Ament reminds us, when people come to be with us, they are offering us a precious gift—and it is our duty to make sure that gift is met with experiences worthy of their time and dedication.