this book was powerful on many levels, but completely heart-wrenching as a mother, a mother of a boy. I can not imagine going through these experiences and it rips my heart out to think of my son living through them.
an amazing reminder of the blessing it is to live here, now. many complain about the state of our economy or the displeasure in our current government. read this. then know you have nothing to complain about.
I visit teach a woman from sierra leon and she has often told us that we don't understand what her life was like at home. I have a better understanding now why her humble home here is paradise to her and that living unemployed and in circumstances I would never be satisfied in is bliss. it's all relative.
gripping. disturbing. hard. wrong. grateful. thanks, kate.
5 comments:
I had a very similar experience when I read "A Thousand Splendid Suns". It was a poignant reminder of just how fortunate we are to be women in THIS country at THIS time, and also how courageous women are. I've just added A Long Way Gone to "the list". I'm a little nervous, but thanks! :-)
Thanks for the book recommendation. I agree, if I ever find my self complaining about anything in my life, it takes all of two seconds to do a reality check after reflecting on the circumstances of millions of others.
Also, fun playlist! (:
I'm afraid to read it. May I borrow your copy so I don't have to commit to buying it?
there is no way i could read this book. it would hurt too much. hard and wrong - not words i ever think of when i think of my boys. as a mom, i have a much stricter filter than ever before in my life. i am more than blessed and thankful for a calm existence. why did you pick it up? i know you don't live in a fairy tale world, but given how little free time you have, was it hard to fit this one in?
I read this book on my sister' recommendation. the book is hard to read simply because some of the experiences this young man faces are beyond difficult, but I picked it up in order to broaden my mind, to educate myself on what is happening outside of my little bubble of peace. I didn't mean to discourage anyone from reading it. the reality is that our world isn't always cupcakes and joy- and I think it's important to recognize that, and in turn be incredibly grateful for the circumstances we find ourselves in, however difficult they may seem.
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