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...

Sunday, September 7, 2008

People you meet in Hostels

Without question, it is a great experience if you enjoy the energy, enthusiasm, openness and basic goodness of young people.

Some interesting people:

Daniel, 25, from Lisbon - touring Europe for 30 days. He has to do an internship in law and then take his bar exams. He wants to practice law related to urban planning. His agenda: to tour the cities to capture a sense of their unfolding.

Ian, 40, from Australia - came to Prague to help his friend and his wife adjust to having a baby with Downs Syndrome. The experience was hurting the couple's marriage. He helps out at their home 4 days a week& then takes a break. True friendship!

Liz, 29, from Santa Monica who has settled in Prague and manages the cafe in the basement - which looks more like an ancient crypt - such ambiance!

Dave, 26, from Kansas City touring Europe before he gets too old!!!

Richard, 20, from a village near Florence - a musician touring also. He stands 6' 4" and is a very engaging person. He decided to sit and talk with me for several hours. He now keeps in touch by email. He wants to have lunch with Laura, Jason and me when we are in Florence in December!

Emily, the 22 year old student in Oslo, who has to fend off some of the guys as she works at the hostel desk. The guys are polite but clearly interested. Makes sense as she is a delightful, interesting, and attractive young lady.

John, 66, and his son who are here with about 20 guys on a bachelor’s party from England. John is interesting and a true Tory. Unlike most, he's not rooting for Obama!

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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