Books Worth a Look

  • Little Bee by Chris Cleave - This book is a must read. Better than anything else I've read, it takes you vividly into the life of a person in the 3rd world who has no choice but to escape. It is brilliantly written & works well as an audio book. Often I've sent info about the wonderful refugees I've met in Europe. We know only so much of their plight as it is painful for them to recall much less live through again by recounting it. But over time it is clear what they've lived through. This book is excellent as you discover the horrors of their world. Somewhat how to me, it is like being in Europe near a Concentration Camp. One has an obligation to visit it. 'Never to Forget.' In this case, to have our eyes opened.
  • Garbage King by Eliz Laird - The book is set on the streets on Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia and here lives Mamo and his sister Tiggist. When Mamo's "uncle" offers a job, he soon sets out on a bus to work. Little does he know that he is actually being sold into slavery...

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Antigua, Guatemala - last 9 days

Language purists look down their noses at Antigua. It´s full of tourists & English is easy to come by. True, but if you want to speak Spanish, it´s all about you!

The homestay, Consuelo de Solares, is like a Hilton. I feel a tad uneasy given what many here do not have. Still after Xela, I have to admit this is quite nice. ( see ´Homestay in Antigua´ for pics.)

Antigua was the 2nd capitol of Guatemala. It has a thriving historical preservation program, many language schools which had a major impact on reviving its economy, beautiful ruins, churches, markets and is only 1 hour from Guatemala City & the airport.

It´s reasonably safe. Best not to walk alone at night much after 9 or 10. BUT with my homestay after a sumptuous night meal at 7, why go out? BBC News, CNN, TNT, Chanel from Los Angelos available, lovely outdoor gardens within the homestay.

Mornings are taken with walks throughout the city which stretches 1 mile in each direction. Look up & you see a volcano! Afternoon is Spanish class. Evening, possibly a trip to the bookstore, local slide talk or Rainbow Cafe for a drink.

Weather is sunny each day with about 70 to 78F. Tough!

Hang in all!

Phil

REFLECTIONS & ARTICLES

Thoughts on the amazing people I get to meet.

Rich, my 19 year old friend, soon to be Franciscan and recent community member at Haley House in Boston. An article he wrote.

http://www.capuchinfranciscans.org/pdf/2008%2003%2011%20CVO%20Update%20A%20community%20of%20two%20tables.pdf