I also appreciate the exposure to a way of life where there is very little by way of American standards.  I lived and was a doula along the TX - MX border for a few years and the poverty was at times extreme.  But the love and the spirit of the people were inspirational at times. 

 

I of course also am so glad for the resources that are available here in our society, but I have always been thankful to have experienced and seen a different, and simplier way of life.

 

Jillian

 

On 7/27/07, firedog31@... < firedog31@...> wrote:

Right, it was certainly heartbreaking (and ironic) that her death was during childbirth, of all
things. But although the impovished setting was absolutely depressing, it inspired me, too. I
realize how much I take for granted in my own life. After each chapter I set the book down,
look around and see how much Stuff--CRAP I have in my house. The book was beautiful. I
appreciate the exposure to other ideas and ways of life. I have 2 children who have no idea
what it's like to be really hungry or really sick. It's embarrassing that I shop for preschools for
my 2 year-old when so many people in Mali go their lifetimes without any (or have very little)
schooling. I am grateful for the beautiful & eye-opening read.