Quest For Life

What began as a pizza dinner and a discussion about life between childhood friends has culminated in a cross-country search for the meaning of success.

Brian Ardinger and Chris Moeller visited State College Monday as part of their journey, which began after the two realized they shared a mutual dissatisfaction with their lives. Instead of searching for fulfillment in a new occupation or additional schooling, they decided to gather insights about success from people across the United States....

... Staying with relatives, friends and acquaintances, Ardinger and Moeller have visited more than 25 cities, ranging from Sacramento, Calif., to Beckley, W.Va. Each region has a slightly different definition of success, they said.

"The elements of success exist all over the nation, but different regions just take one element a little further," Moeller said, adding they have observed an emphasis on freedom and independence in the Western states and family and religion in the Midwest.

On the road for almost 90 days, the team said they have not had any serious problems or disagreements, although the rearview mirror once fell off of their Jeep.

"It's pretty good when you can say that's the only major problem," Moeller said.

When the trip ends in early 1999, Ardinger and Moeller plan on compiling their experiences into a book explaining their journey to success. Multimedia projects are also a possibility, Moeller added.

Despite the fact both men are not sure what they are going to do once the Quest-4 experience has concluded, neither expressed regret about leaving familiarity behind to make this journey.

"I've talked to too many older people with regrets. While I have the opportunity, why not take advantage of it? ... I like the fact that I'm not exactly sure what will happen at the end," Ardinger said.

Both encourage anyone contemplating a career change or some other adjustment in their lives to get away and evaluate their situation.

"It's scary, I won't deny that," Ardinger said. "(But) when you feel confident in what you're doing and know it's the right path, it's not as frightening."

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