Catching up...Days 17-19

Day 17: A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.
There are a couple of books that fall into this category, but they are all based on the same subject.

The Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini
Three Cups of Tea, by Greg Mortenson & David Oliver Relin
Stones Into Schools, by Greg Mortenson

The Kite Runner is a story based on the historical happenings of Afghanistan. The plot is centered around a boy and his father and their escape from Afghanistan to America. I learned so much about the country's fight against the Russian invasion, as well as the Taliban. It helped me to understand how and why things are the way they are today in their country. It's shocking and sad. A horrible injustice to the people of Afghanistan.

Three Cups of Tea and Stones Into Schools are non-fictional books about Greg Mortenson who is the co-founder of nonprofit Central Asia Institute and founder of Pennies For Peace. His personal story of dedicating himself to the education of children, specifically girls in the northern most regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan is laid out in both books. "As of 2009, Mortenson has established or significantly supports 131 schools in rural and often volatile regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan, which provide education to over 58,000 children, including 44,000 girls, where few education opportunities existed before." These two books have had a profound impact on me. I was even lucky enough to hear Mr. Mortenson speak at my friends graduation ceremony in Philadelphia. I was such an honor and something I will always remember. The lessons I have learned about the everyday citizens of these regions are life changing. I think every high school Senior should be required to read these books to help understand the steps that need to be taken to promote peace, education and understanding in the Middle East.


Day 18: Your views on gay marriage.

This is such a sensitive subject. One that is so personally important to so many. I wish there was a way to make everyone happy, to be equally respectful to all. I don't think there is though. Those who hold traditional religious values want the act of marriage to stay between a "man and woman." Some are willing to pass a "civil union" law that would afford same sex couple the same rights as heterosexual couples. But is that fair to the Gay/Lesbian community? To treat them so differently. Why shouldn't they be able to "marry" in the traditional sense of the word? Personally, I don't think I mind if they are allowed to "marry." What does it matter in the grand scheme of life? Who are we to decide who others should love and if they have the right to be united? Are they hurting anyone directly or breaking any laws? Is that even their intention? No. They just want to love, be loved and live their life based on their biological make up that makes them who they are. I definitely support these couple receiving the same rights like insurance, adoption, medical decisions, taxes and such. This probably isn't the answer some would like to hear, but I'm taking the brave lead of my niece who is not afraid to stand by her thoughts and convictions. I'm always hesitant to share my opinions about these matters for fear of offending others, but I guess I am who I am and to love me would mean excepting all of me. I just want tolerance and love, a Christlike way.

Day 19: What do you think of religion?
Wow, these are some heavy questions. I am Mormon. I was raised that way. I don't want to be anything else. I hold dear most of the core values of my religion. Me myself? I'm probably not Mormon enough for some and too Mormon for others. But I'm me and I'm comfortable with who I am and the faith that I hold dear. I believe in God, His Son and the Holy Ghost. I believe that all blessings come from them. I believe in Heaven and an eternal life. I believe I will be with my family and loved ones forever. I believe I am here to learn, grow and become as Christlike as possible. I believe that anyone who has faith in God will receive these same blessings. I don't judge based on religion. I don't ask or focus on it when meeting new people. I am close to and love others who believe differently than I do. I think it is a very VERY personal thing. If you can share it with others and they are willing to accept it it's a wonderful thing. If not, that is their personal journey. I believe in the Ten Commandments as a general way of living your life, as well as serving, generosity, love, kindness, being neighborly, tolerance, patience and general goodness in your heart. This is who I strive to be. I am thankful for my life and all it contains and I know who to thank for it. Amen.