Man Claims “It’s About the Journey, Not the Destination” as Family Realizes They’ve Been Lost for 3 Hours

In a move shocking to absolutely no one, local man Jared F. was reported as saying, “It’s about the journey, not the destination,” while stubbornly refusing to admit he’s been lost for over three hours. The statement came after his wife, friends, and even the GPS suggested they turn around. Sources say that Jared’s wife, Sarah, has been quietly pleading for him to ask for directions, but Jared is steadfast in his belief that “real explorers don’t need Google Maps.”

“I know exactly where we are,” Jared said confidently, looking out at an expanse of trees that seemed eerily familiar from an hour ago. “The mountains are on our left, which means we’re totally in the right direction. Trust me; I got this.”

Despite being given several opportunities to check a map or even take one of the many offered side roads clearly marked as “Detour,” Jared remains unmoved. According to Sarah, Jared’s love for “the journey” emerged only after he passed the last known civilization an hour ago.

Meanwhile, the kids in the back seat have begun naming passing landmarks to track their apparent circular path. “There goes Rock #5 again,” said Jared’s daughter, with a mix of boredom and resignation.

Experts say Jared’s behavior is part of a larger phenomenon known as Directional Denial Disorder (DDD), a chronic condition affecting men aged 35-55 who cannot bring themselves to ask for help with navigation. Studies have shown that 98% of men with DDD are known to offer philosophical wisdom instead, often invoking “the journey” and “character-building” as smoke screens for their total loss of location.

“I feel like I know myself better after the last two hours of not knowing where we’re going,” Jared’s son reported, who has now learned the difference between a bluff and a ravine. “Dad said it builds resilience, but honestly, I’d just rather be at Aunt Lisa’s house by now.”

As dusk approaches, Sarah quietly dialed up the GPS on her own phone and began memorizing the way back in preparation for “when Jared finally admits we’ve reached the wrong destination,” she said. Experts predict that moment may come sometime next Thursday.