Two nights ago I finished Three Cups of Tea. Whatever words I can pull together about this book will be completely inadequate. I can't believe that I didn't know about it until three weeks ago. For those who have read the book, just skip my blathering. For those who haven't, buy it now (from their website, so money will go to the charity).
It's the story of Greg Mortensen, former mountaineer, turned humanitarian, written by David Oliver-Relin. An encounter in a village in remote Northern Pakistan led Mortensen on an incredible journey, which resulted in the construction of over 50 schools in Northern Pakistan. Not only do these institutions provide education for girls, which is sorely needed in this area of the world, but they also provide a secular alternative to the ubiquitous madrassa. Mortensen is fighting terrorism and promoting peace by going directly to the source: providing opportunities through education for an impoverished people. You will be astounded and amazed at what he has accomplished in just over a decade.
Obviously I loved the book for it's peaceful message, but also because it brought back so many memories of my travels to Pakistan. My last trip to South Asia was just over seven years ago. I've walked many of the streets in Peshawar and Islamabad described in the book. I've had many, many cups of tea, from roadside stands, dilapidated guesthouses, homes of collaborators, and hotels in Islamabad. I have also been humbled by the hospitality of people who had far less than I.
In the years after I left my job, I missed the smell of Islamabad, the admixture of petrol and humanity that would wash over me as I disembarked the plane. I loved being completely disconnected. I would call home once or twice per field season. There was no internet, no phone, and no distractions. There was field work under a blistering sun and afternoon tea with pekoras.
I wonder what my daughters will think of that part of my life, traveling the world to do paleontological fieldwork. I can only hope that knowledge of my life before them will provide a deeper appreciation of who I am. I'm not just the maker of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or the changer of diapers.
4 comments:
You could never be JUST the maker of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or changer of diapers. I think the blog helps them know that but in case they ever doubt, I'll make sure they are well aware of all of who you 'are.' I know you know this, but you are an amazing friend, role model, rock, voice of reason, inspirer of loud and obnoxious singing, great person to get drunk with, wealth of knowledge, and a genuine source of comfort and peace....well and about a million other things. Glad you liked the book - I need to read it too.
That book is on my Goodreds list! I am amazed that you spent time there. I look forward to reading the book!
This book is on my list. Your review and personal experience move it to the top! I have to echo Quentin. It's easy to forget the pre-kids life when you're in the middle of raising them. The stories will come out in good time... and they'll be impressed that Mom was a researcher, too!!
Wow! this is one of those amazing posts I was talking about. I'm so intrigued by your story of doing research in Pakistan. Your girls will know what an interesting life you lead. I know I appreciate my own mom's story so much more now than when I was little. She spent nearly 2 years in Alaska, finished her undergraduate degree there while she was married to my sister's dad. Had a baby there with no family around... and left my sister's dad and brought my sister back to the midwest... all by herself. Moms are amazing creatures, it just sometimes takes awhile for kids to realize it.
glad you're back into reading. If you decide to join goodreads, look me up!
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