Three Cups of Tea

I just finished the book "Three Cups of Tea". I checked it out from the library 3 weeks ago, and I'll admit, had a bit of trouble getting into the book. But Oh My Goodness (so good I didn't need to use OMG)!!!

If you haven't heard of the book it is about an American Man, Greg Mortenson, who attempted to climb a mountain, K2. That's where the book stars, it's a lot of geographic information, a lot of names that are hard to pronounce and keep straight (and that's why I had some trouble). Anyway, so he fails his attempt, and somehow, on his trek back down, he ends up in a village, Korphe, which he said he'd never even seen on a Pakistani map before. He sees they need a school, and he promise the village leader, Haji Ali, that he, Greg Mortenson, will return to Korphe and build them a school. :)

So, that's where it starts. The story takes us through his fund raising battles back in America. His struggles to build the first school (of course...they need a bridge first). The support he gets from one person in America, Jean Hoerni. His love life, and meeting his wife Tara, and marrying her 6 days later! (Ahhh). It takes us through Pakistan customs, ideals, politics, religions. Everything. All the way to 9/11...which is where it gets REALLY good.

It's a MUST read for everyone. It really made me remember what I've been saying for years...we've abandoned these countries (Afghanistan and Pakistan) to go fight an endless war in Iraq. It's VERY interesting to read opinions of Mr. Mortenson, as well as his Afghan and Pakistani confidants on their opinions...the build up to 9/11, and fall after 9/11.

It's an amazing book. I need these books every once in awhile to remember there is ALWAYS a purpose in life. Sometimes I get so caught up in my own personal life (career, babies, cars, marraige) I forget there are such HUGE things I can do in a world so far away from what I know...for mere pennies. This man builds schools, and water systems, and pays salaries for government employees in Afghanistan, and gives Pakistan and Afghan girls scholarships for education. It's so completely amazing...I wish I had the guts, and the drive this man does.

But, I do not. What I do have, however, in a small amount each month, is expendable income. I encourage all of you, if not read the book (which you MUST do), than go to the website, see what its about. And maybe, this holiday season, we can help donate money to build much needed schools, and waterways, etc. etc. in Afghanistan...and country we must show we have not forgotten.

And, for my family. Be prepared to get 2 calendars from me this year. I've already placed an order with Three Cups of Tea! :)

What are you waiting for. GO READ THE BOOK!!!!