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Rick Casault's avatar

So true: “I would sometimes introduce myself and just ask about their personal stories.”

When I bicycled in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam in 2017, a BnB host was anxious to show this veteran of the “American War” his grandfather’s memorial room. I had asked about his story. He thought I might be interested in the story of someone on the other side of the war. He proudly showed me the letters signed by Ho Chi Minh and the medals and pictures.

One of the most amazing, moving moments of a marvelous trip.

Jeanie Tomasko's avatar

Wow! This is fascinating. Incredible what listening can do. Thanks for sharing and enjoy the book process!! BTW, we bought 2 Prospector 13s last Saturday!!

Darren Bush's avatar

Thanks for reading. And thanks for the canoes, you’ll love them.

Susan Pierce-ruhland's avatar

Thanks for posting this intro! Your emphasis on learning the local language, even just some basics, is good advice for all of us. We can all benefit from learning another language, for even in the US there are many languages spoken. The more we try to understand each other, the more our hearts expand. After all, our ancestors spoke many languages and our immigrant neighbors are often more bilingual than those of us who were born here.

Darren Bush's avatar

It doesn’t take much. I learned two words in Turkey: merhaba (hi) and teşekkur edirim (thanks). :-)

Alan Drummond's avatar

Beautifully written Darren. If only people could be a little less scared of, and a little more welcoming to, immigrants, at all levels, the world would be a happier more vibrant place

Mugs95's avatar

Beautiful and so true. Thank you for this gift this morning!

Chuck Andrews's avatar

Well written. I feel like a traveling companion!

Terry Evanson's avatar

Lovely stories, Darren. I look forward to reading your book.

Karl C.'s avatar

I enjoyed the story very much. Can't wait to read more. Put me down for a signed first edition.

Karl