Goals: April 2012

Anyone else notice that April is half over and I've said hardly anything about my goals for the month? I hope not...but I'm pretty sure only about 5 people read this year bloggy anyway, and that's just fine by me.

Anyway, April is going decently well - not big goals really, or nothing daily anyway.

I have a goal to run 4 times per week. It's going surprisingly well, which is good considering I've signed up for my first 5K on April 29th (2 days after I officially enter my golden year!!!)

I have another goal to study Korean more frequently - this is less impressive, as in, I haven't done much.

I have a goal to write letters and send them via post more frequently, I have written a couple and bought some cutesy stationary and have mental plans for the best days to stop by the post office - hoping I get 5-10 things mailed out this month and that I can truly make this a steady and increasing habit.

I don't have any book reading goals this month. I'm working on The Help when I'm home and trying to find a good bus book as well as get through some of the longer reads of group books I'm reading (Sherlock Holmes and Searching for God Knows What to be specific).

Oh, and I'm trying to do Quiet Times more frequently, old school, college style - in the morning, with tea, a journal and the bible - the times I've managed it, it's been nice.

Perhaps I'll fill you in more later, but this is kind of a goal-setting/update post all in one...makes things tricky ;)

Let's Talk...Hunger Games

Here's the thing, my brain cannot stop spinning with the rich imagery of The Hunger Games trilogy.

Here's the thing, my heart cannot stop spinning with the rich illusions to history, current events and issues of social justice which The Hunger Games trilogy presented.

And because of those two things, I need some conversation.

With friends.
With compassionate souls.
With book nerds.
With anyone really.
Especially if they've read these books.

I've only finished them within the last 24 hours. And, I think I could start on page one all over again. Except that I lost some sleep due to my often overactive brain, particularly when it's hyped up on fantastic yet disturbing and horrific imagery.

I don't know where I want this conversation to go and I'm not sure I can make a nice, orderly presentation of my thoughts, but I'll give it a go nonetheless.

Katniss. Maybe I should reconsider this post and just blog on specific characters and scenes...but the last thing I need is another ongoing series.

Katniss. I admired her, questioned her, pitied her, envied her, doubted her and needed her. But there was, for me a constant theme that this girl, simply happened to be in the 'right place at the right time' and had the character to withstand the pressure and expectation, although she doubted herself throughout. (This point actually reminded me a lot of Esther and the weeks I spent studying her story with a group of woman back in Laramie). I loved her for that. I loved the author for that. In this way, Katniss became relatable and inspirational.

Rather than get long-winded, I'll mention another aspect that's been on my mind and conclude this with hopes that my friends will engage in a bit of conversation and I can simply just enjoy where this goes, dialoguing back and forth.

The Hunger Games, a sacrificing of children, a reminder of dark days...

"Because something is significantly wrong with a creature that sacrifices its children's lives to settles its differences." (Mockingjay, p. 375)

...seems all the more worthy of reflection when the world has just begun to campaign Kony 2012. Right?

(Typed while trying to boost my energy with a sweet yellow teacup filled with Vietnamese coffee and sweetened condensed milk)

Faith and Loss

"Faith in God is an opening up, a letting go, a deep trust, a free act of love - but sometimes it was so hard to love. Sometimes my heart was sinking so fast with anger, desolation and weariness, I was afraid it would sink to the very bottom of the Pacific and I would not be able to lift it back up." (Life of Pi, p. 263).

These words are speaking more truth into where I am at now than where I was at when I marked them while reading the Life of Pi.

I never felt the depth of anger, frustration and dislike of an individual as I do now.
It's ugly.
It makes me feel ugly.
It's unstoppable.

Maybe not literally, I'm sure there's a way to mentally re-direct myself. I'm sure there is scripture I could meditate on hard and come to some loving conclusion and actions to express toward said individual. But something in me is refusing to go there.

My feelings are hurt in a way I am unfamiliar with. I feel misrepresented, disrespected and unrightly inferior.

Pride is continuously swelling up inside of me as I think about what I am entitled to as an individual, as an educator, as an...American.

I truly don't know what to do to move toward an expression of love toward this particular co-worker.

If it weren't for the wealth of people who pour love into my life and whom I can so boldly love, I would fear my heart has sunken to far to be retrieved.

But, it's easy to love those who love us.
Jesus challenges us to love those who hate us, whom are our enemies, who are difficult to love.

I have a little lot more 'letting go' to do before I can love in a way I believe is reflective of what I know to be my heart's capacity.

Ugh.

(Typed with the caffeine of instant Korean Maxim coursing through my veins)

Book: A Simple Amish Christmas

A Simple Amish Christmas by Vannetta Chapman

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Such a peaceful story about Christmas and the simplicity that should perhaps be the more common Christmas experience rather than the holiday-shopping-giving-rushing-around-frenzy that can be so common. Reading this while living 6,000 miles away from 'home' gave it a particularly strong appeal as I definitely related to the desire to be home where Christmas has always been celebrated with certain traditions that I desire and miss terribly.



Nuggets of truth and wisdom:



"Things change, but sometimes our perception of them stays the same." Page 68/Location 1058



"Secrets aren't always bad, Annie. Unless they weigh heavy on your soul - like the clouds pushing down over the fields." Page 102/Location 1605



"Love doesn't take time, dear. It takes giving of yourself." Page 266/Location 2723



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Book: The Red Suit Diaries

The Red Suit Diaries by Ed Butchart

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


A sweet recounting of precious memories of his years serving as a Santa Claus, Ed Butchart is all grandfather/Santa figure in the telling of what he passionately views as his ministry, serving as a Santa.



As an educator, I found myself agreeing fully to some of the remarks he made regarding family relations and the affects of nature v. nuture and how each plays an important role in character building and development.



Quick, easy, light-hearted read from a man who truly believes in the 'reason for the season' the love of God as shown through the birth and life of his Son.



Among the heart-warming stories, there was this nugget...not sweet, not filled with the Chirstmas spirit but nonetheless rang true and possibly reflects emotions I've personally held regarding various things:



"I was just predisposed to be more annoyed than enamored with anyone vulnerable." page 20/location 69



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Book: O Little Town

O Little Town by Don Reid

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable read during the holiday season. Filled with intertwining story-lines, images of grace, compassion, forgiveness and love, definitely helps to amp up the Christmas spirti and love for our fellow man.

"She was always trying too hard; trying too hard to win his love instead of enjoying it. She desired approval over affection. Attention over contentment." Page 119/Location 1466

"Funny the things you remember when you begin fearing that memories may be all you have left." Page 212/Location 2674

"Forgiveness is first a private matter before you can pass it on." Page 279/Location 3508

"Struggling for the truth is hard but struggling with the truth is even harder." Page 282/Location 3534

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Book: The Art of Racing in the Rain

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I really enjoyed the style of this book, the insightful, clever narration of Enzo the dog was so enjoyable and really has me seeing our own dog in a different light (I think I should 'teach' her more about what I know ^.~). Not only is the narration clever and unique, the story line is moving, connected, engaging and insightful.
If dog's could write memoirs, 'The Art of Racing in the Rain' would definitely set the tone and expectation.
"People and their rituals. They cling to things so hard sometimes." - page 8

Something I've learned, especially living abroad. Example: Eggnog is a Christmas ritual, therefore, one must make eggnog when living in a non-eggnog providing market.

"all dogs are progressively inclined regarding social issues." - page 20

That a girl Lady Annyeong!

"...that which we manifest is before us; we are the creators of our own destiny. Be it through intention or ignorance, our successes and our failures have been brought on by none other than ourselves." - page 43
"But trust me when I tell you that the zebra is real. Somewhere, the zebra is dancing." - page 66
"Learn to listen! I beg of you. Pretend you are a dog like me and listen to other people rather than steal their stories."

Amen! Something I'm sure I could use improvement on. Something I can learn not only from my dog, but also from my man. The art of listening.

"The sun rises every day. What is to love? Lock the sun in a box. Force the sun to overcome adversity in order to rise. Then we will cheer!" - page 136

Adversity.

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Book: Christmas at Harrington's

Christmas at Harrington's by Melody Carlson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a quick and delightful read about an ex-con (wrongfully accused) who brings an impressive amount of joy to her new community (albeit with a bit of hardship on her end). I appreciated the sincerity with which the story is told and the character of Lena Markham. Definitely a pleasant read for the holiday season. Honestly, I  picked this book because of 'Harrington's' in the title - no other reason. I was surprised to find a story which showcased deep felt truths about finding out place in a community, specificially a religious community, after making mistakes or falsely being accused of mistakes. I enjoyed the beautiful ways in which all the characters worked alongside one another, surprising even themselves with their kindness.  At the same time, these stories lead me to question the reality of softening hearts. After 8 years in prison, after difficult betrayals, after abuse and hardship. I know it's possible. I've seen and experienced it - I've just also seen the reverse, ever hardening hearts. So, at times I struggled to believe the community of women involved in this story really could feel such a strong love for one another.  But, then again, maybe that's just where I am in regards to being jaded by the harsher realities of the world...
Stand-out quotes:
"If she didn't make a decision, whe wouldn't make a mistake. That way no one, including her father, coule blame her." (p. 17)
"At this moment being in prison seemed preferable to suffering the pain she'd experienced while on the outside." (p. 120)
"Suddenly it seemed crystal clear. Why would she embrace the belief system of people who had givern her only pain and grief? Why should she accept their flawed image of an angry, judgemental, and punitive God? A God she wanted nothing to do with. A God who would grinder her out beneath the heel of his boot. What reason did she have to believe people like that -- to blindly accept their God?"

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Book: Blue Heaven

Blue Heaven by C.J. Box

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I ended up reading this book as part of a book club. Suspense/Thriller murder mystery type reads rarely make it into my reading routine. However, I'm so glad that this one did. The setting o this story in Northern Idaho gave it a rural feel that reminded me of growing up and of home. I was so interested in this story from the very beginning. C.J. Box does not keep the reader waiting for action and plot line progession. I was surprised by how involved I became in the plot and desperately I wanted things to end up according to my personal plan and ideal conclusions.
Truly an enjoyable read, thankful to get out of my genre comfort zone and experience something a bit different but just as revealing to the human soul, redemption, forgiveness, messy-life-siuations, and community.
And the line that stuck out most:
"These people, he thought, talk to you like they've known you all their lives."
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Book: Married to Bhutan

Married to Bhutan by Linda Leaming


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Such a fascinating read about a country which is nearly impossible to fly into even in 2011 (I thought maybe we could take one of our vacations there, I think it requires more planning than we generally conduct for travels). A short stay in Bhutan quickly lead to life in Bhutan for Linda Leaming and the stories she shares are humurous, enlightening and entertaining.

A few gems:

"So along with all this peaceful beauty, there's a lot of vulnerability." (p.6)

"Sins of the flesh are probably the least destructive to humankind; and things like anger, hypocrisy, jealousy, greed, and pride are much more damaging in the end." (p.47)

"In Bhutan, saying very little is the epitome of good manners...It's more okay not to talk. People are comfortable with scilence. I believe my Bhutanese friends and family are talking without talking." (p. 64)

"Part of loving is just relishing the mystery and the improbability of it all." (p. 80)

"Winter is an inward time. Trees abandon their leaves, and their sap, their life force, concentrates in their trunks." (p.143)

"In my life, adventure and dreams have taken precedence over desire for material objects." (p.216)

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Book: The Picture of Dorian Gray

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Such a thought-provoking read regarding desires for everlasting youth and beauty at the cost of one's soul and moral-integrity. I was so intriguied by the relational triangle developed between Dorian Gray, Lord Henry and Basil and the influences each had on each other.  Each relationship was complex and telling.  The character of each man was well developed and often had me questioning how accurately these men continue to portray the views of modern society, from the wealthy classes to the not so wealthy.  Really a fascinating, if at times, disheartening, read. I can imagine this would be well enjoyed in a book club setting or literature course as the writing is superb and the material intriguing and more-than-conversational/discussable.

A few notable/fun/insightful quotes:

"I have grown to love secrecy. It seems to be the one thing that can make modern life mysterious or marvellous to us. The commonest thing is delightful if one only hides it." (p. 8)

"Laughter is not at all a bad beginning for a friendship, and it is by far the best ending for one" (p. 12).

"She behaves as if she was beautiful. Most American women do. It is the secret of their charm." (p. 40).

"Don't be so indifferent. You have a wonderful influence. Let it be for good, not for evil." (p. 164)

"The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame." (p. 236)

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Defending God

"There are always those who take it upon themselves to defend God, as if Ultimate Reality, as if the sustaining frame of existence, were something weak and helpless...These people fail to realize that it is on the inside that God must be defended, not on the outside." (Life of Pi, p. 89).

Interesting.

Defending God.

As if He isn't God. As if He needs me to give voice to His Authority.

Interesting.

Defending God.

Inside. As if it's me who doubts, struggles, refuses, hems-and-haws.
As if I am the one who is weak and helpless.



I'm thankful for books that give me things to chew on, to wrestle with and reflect on long after having read them.

(Typed while drowning out a 6th grade after school class with Andrew Bird and sipping instant coffee mix out of a shiny tumbler...30 minutes until I'm en route home!)

Book: Dawn of Avalon

Dawn of Avalon by Anna Elliott

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


The begining chapter was difficult to follow and I'm still not entirely sure who was narrating at that point. The following story however was intriguing enough and well written. I know very little about any Authorian history or lore, I suppose a better opinion could be formed if I had. I give this two stars simply because it's not my typical reading material and it didn't quite captivate me to the point of wanting to seek out additional material in this genre or the trilogy to which this is a prequel. If you're looking for a review from someone who knows more of this genre or King Author or Merlin, etc. I am not it ^.^
A few things worth remembering:
"To a healer, compassion is neither gentle nor tender, but hard and keen as a blade." (Location 544, Kindle)
"For if the weavings of our lives are spun of both joy and sorrow, the fabric of that morning seemed destined to be cast from threads of joy alone." (Location 841, Kindle)
"I have today. And I have at least one morrow. Perhaps the promise of one tomorrow in the sunlight is all any of us can ask for or need." (Location 1273, Kindle)
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Book: Praise Jerusalem!

Praise Jerusalem! by Augusta Trobaugh

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Two stories, one of childhood, one of growing old are interwoven in this narrative of Ms. Amelia. It's a story of compassion, of fear of compassion, of discrimination, of entering the world of 'others', of faith, of love, of aging, of remembering and of starting a new life.

I put this book on my Kindle, free of charge, thanks to Pixel of Ink and am so happy I did.

A few gems:

"things that are over and done with are the saddest things in the whole world" (Location 2796, Kindle)

How true is that? I think of friendships whose seasons have come and gone. Summer days and nights working at camp. Study abroad adventures. Favorite college courses. Jobs. Conversations. Really delicious meals or cups of tea ;)  But mostly those things I know I'll only return to in my memory, because they are no longer a part of my 'in the moment' or 'in the future' rather they are fully, 'my past' and 'my story' ~ valuable but done.

"But sometimes I felt like no matter how long I lived in that town, it would never be any different. Like somebody wrote me into a story, and I couldn't change any of it to save my life." (Location 5888, Kindle)

Who growing up in a small town or living in a small town doesn't feel the truth of such a sentiment? Never had a harder time returning to memories than after having made large life changes...

"You loves folks - all kinds of folks - the strongest of any little thing I ever heard of. But you fight about it with yourself all the time." (Location 7153, Kindle)

"Made in His image. Black as they are. And naked. And hungry - don't matter. Still in His image. All of us are, and the means we gotta love each other. Any way we can and no matter what!" (Location 7735, Kindle)

No matter what. Amen.

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There are so many more passages and quotes that I found profound, hilarious, beautifully worded and descriptive, but perhaps you'd rather just read the book and see for yourself how these are woven into this intricate, beautiful and entertaining read.

(Typed while enjoying that colorful zoo-like mug of instant caramel macchiatto!)

Brothers and Sisters

After reading Life of Pi, I intended to share some more thoughts which were triggered through the writings and insight of Yan Martel.

Well here I am to get that ball rolling.

The following quote stood out to me for a number of reasons, primarily because it gives me a lot to chew on, and I kind of enjoy being forced into thinking about deeper matters such as this:

"It was my first clue that atheists are my brothers and sisters of a different faith, and every word they speak speaks of faith. Like me, they go as far as the legs of reason will carry them -- and then they leap." 

(Life of Pi, p. 35)

Perhaps what I appreciate most is simply being reminded that others are simply my brothers and sisters. 

Do I believe that Jesus is the Son of God, the Way, the Truth and the Life?

Without a doubt. It is, for me, the only possibility and my heart yearns deeply for others to recognize the same truth, my heart rejoices fully when others embrace that truth because I believe it with all that I am, in every nook and cranny of my heart and soul.

But, for me, that Love of Jesus should transform me and inspire me. In powerful, unexplainable ways. In simple, clear ways. In ways that don't set up walls between my brothers and sisters. In ways that lead me to view their worth and the worth of their beliefs in an honorable and loving way.

That's where my thoughts went with that quote. To the type of love I desire to bring this world, to people, regardless of everything.

Now...if only I could figure out how to get there without putting up such a fight in certain situations...

Grace and Peace to you, my brothers and sisters

(Typed while waiting for colorful zoo of a mug filled with instant caramel machiatto to cool down)

Book: Dracula

Perfect for the cool, Korean fall! Read most of this on the bus en route to work each and every week day...Almost missed my stop when reading some of the last pages I was so into it ^^

Dracula by Bram Stoker

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Honestly, I wasn't sure I'd fall in love with this book, just thought I ought to read it seeing as it's a classic. I'm not so sure about the whole vampire craze these days but Dracula is a far cry from Twilight (not that I've read them). It was absolutely amazing.

The writing style is absolutely engaging and full of so many voices and perspectives. The strength of the men, the strength of Mina, their relationships with each other were all exquisite and beautiful. I loved each for their personal character and strengths which they brought forth to the task of facing Dracula. And the Count, entirely fascinating on his own right.

I would not hesitate to re-read this classic.

Interesting and Entertaining Bits:

"It seems to me that the further east you go the more unpunctual are the trains. What ought they to be in China?" (Location 52, Kindle)

"Chasing an errant swarm of bees is nothing to a following a naked lunatic, when the fit of escaping is upon him!" (Location 1725, Kindle)

"I comforted him as well as I could. In such cases men do not need much expression. A grip of the hand, a tightening of an arm over the shoulder, a sob in unison, are expressions of sympathy dear to a man's heart." (Location 2771, Kindle)

"For this enlightened age, when men believe not even what they see, the doubting of wise men would be his greatest strength." (Location 5255, Kindle)

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(Typed on Goodreads before being transferred to the blog while finishing an Americano with milk and honey courtesy of Paris Baguette/my cell phone provider).

Book: Half the Sky

Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by Nicholas D. Kristof

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Perhaps one of the most fair, unbiased books I've held in my hands regarding humanitarian issues for which we all should be concerned. I cannot accurately describe how much I enjoyed reading this book, regardless of hard, ugly truths, the authors are consistent in shining a light on that which is hopeful, looking critically at what is failing in foreign aid and offering suggestions yet simultaneously encouraging innovation and flexibility in tackling issues of human rights. I confidently claim, that of all non-fiction books I've read, this is one I would eagerly pick right back up and begin reading again.

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Please read this. Then let's discuss.

Also, hold me accountable. In 6-12 weeks ask me if I am sponsor via Women for Women or not. Please and thank you.

P.S. Sorry I only post book reviews here...I'm trying to think of something else and when I can post something else, I miss releasing myself here, in this space, over a cup of tea.

(Typed having finished a glass of read wine sitting on a fold out couch with a sweet little Lady curled up by my feet)

Book: I Like You - Hospitality Under the Influence

I have a brilliant, beautiful and dear friend who comes up with equally brilliant ideas.

A recent idea is to create a book club amongst women where rather than read books at the same time, each women chooses one book, then sends it on to the next reader at the given time. A traveling books - book club of sorts. I throw off the groove, but my friend has a dear, loving heart and has figured out ways to include me in this adventure.

I chose this book by Amy Sedaris thinking that it would be funny, slightly offensive but enjoyable (I later found out that my friend who had read the book didn't actually feel that positive about the read...oops). Anyway, it's a short read since it's mostly a cookbook...go figure.

I look forward to hearing the other women's thoughts on this book. For now, a few of my own.

I Like You: Hospitality Under the Influence by Amy Sedaris

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


It was...not what I expected - in good ways and simply unexpected ways.

There are a ton of recipes in this book which honestly make me happy. Cookbooks bring me joy.

The humor is along the lines of general Sedaris humor, slightly offensive, sarcastic, cynical but still funny. There are legitimately clever tips and ideas mixed among the delectable sounding recipes and clever quips regarding party ideas.

The book is also colorful and filled with photos. Should you have a Kindle or other eReader, I'm not sure this book would be enjoyed as much in such a format. The photos (although occasionally offensive) give the book added character and make it additionally enjoyable to read.

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(Typed while finishing a sweet yellow tea cup -- which is a special reminder of my beautiful friend -- of Korean instant coffee mix ^.^)

Book: The Oak Leaves

The Oak Leaves by Maureen Lang

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


There are two stories being told in Maureen-Lang's book The Oak Leaves. One in modern-day US (perhaps New York) and one from the late 1800s between Ireland and England. I much preferred the story coming out of Ireland and England and so desperately wanted to get back to that aspect of the novel each and every time the modern day story took the stage. This is not, however, to say the modern day story was not as well written, I simply didn't enjoy the characters to the same degree. The book is written with Christian faith as a central theme alongside the impressions held throughout history regarding people with special needs, in this case Fragile X (which I had not previously heard of).

Bits I enjoyed/highlighted:

"Seeing what's gone before can help us know what to expect from life" (p. 3)

"I have often pondered whether more travel helps us learn about ourselves. I believe it might be true." (p. 169)

"'Happiness follows simplicity.' Perhaps, if I may bend this proverb a bit, happiness follows the simple." (p. 333)

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 Additional thoughts on this book:

I was not too fond of the modern day character's because, honestly, they struggled so much to accept that their child wouldn't be 'normal'. And this, my friends, is most likely a glaring flaw in my ability to understand what being a parent must entail. Or perhaps it's just that, I think about these things. I think about what life will be like if we give birth or are matched to a child with a special need and my heart and mind are convinced we would not hesitate nor question the beauty of their life in ours -- but I know so little in this regard. I suppose people do want perfect children, or healthy children or normal children and that makes all the sense in the world to me. Perhaps, these feelings simply come from the fact that I don't have a dream family, nor do I dream often of our perfect family. (I never had a dream wedding either and was oh-so-thankful when the day came that it was a representation of us rather than my childhood dreams - but that's a prideful soap-box).

So, I don't know. My distaste for the modern day characters is likely judgmental and unfounded. Also, obviously, reveals some pride in my heart regarding how I assume I would face such a challenge. I have no idea what parenting days are going to bring, I'm just continually hopeful that I'll stand strong in the One thing that has proven strong in this life regardless of my pride and naivety.

(Typed with thoughts of boiling water for a mug of green tea with a drop of honey in a sweet yellow teacup)

Book: Life of Pi

Life of Pi by Yann Martel

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

(Perhaps I under rated this...not sure. I really knew a lot about the story before reading it, perhaps that is why it did not grip me to it's full potential...)

At this point, I feel many people are familiar with the basic set-up of the 'Life of Pi'. A boy. A boat. A Bengal Tiger. Lost at Sea. Survival.

Of course, there is so much more that is honestly riveting, challenging and good fodder for discussion and the processing of personal beliefs, etc. I enjoyed the story thoroughly and take with me the following quotes and passages as particularly poignant and thought-provoking.

"It is true that those we meet can change us, sometimes so profoundly that we are not the same after-wards, even unto our names." (p. 25).

"Why do people move? What makes them uproot and leave everything they've known for a great unknown beyond the horizon? Why climb this Mount Everest of formalities that makes you feel like a beggar? 98Why enter this jungle of foreignness where everything is new, strange and difficult?

The answer is the same the world over: people move in hope of a better life." (p.98)

For so many reasons, this stood out to me. This is my constant line of questioning. Why live where we do, away from a community we know, love and were known and loved by?  I struggle to accept that the answer is 'in hope of a better life' but haven't thought of any better alternative, so perhaps it is so.

"Don't bully me with your politeness! Love is hard to believe, ask any lover. Life is hard to believe, ask any scientist. God is hard to believe, ask any believer. What is your problem with hard to believe?" (p. 375)

"The world isn't just the way it is. It is how we understand it, no? And in understanding something, we bring something to it, no? Doesn't that make life a story?" (p. 380).


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Above is obviously what I posted on my Goodreads, with italicized  additions adding further insight/thoughts. However, there are numerous additional passages which stuck out to me, passages that I plan to really work through and connect to where I'm at, where I've been and where I'm going.

To all my dear friends and faithful readers, what were your thoughts on the Life of Pi?

(Typed having recently finished a sweet yellow teacup filled with Korean 3-in-1 coffee mix)