Sudanese and the What

As I like to do from time to time, I asked what someone I know (my brother Alex, a poli sci/international relations grad student) was currently reading. More often than not, I am familiar with various nonfiction and fiction books, so I usually know what's currently interesting and worth giving a read. But I also love to ask my family and friends what they are reading because sometimes they suggest something that was slightly under my bookworm radar. I'm glad I decided to check out the book my brother is almost finished reading: "What is the What" by Dave Eggers.

While I love biographies (especially memoir style), this is not a book I likely would have made a decision to read upon first inspection of the description. It seemed slightly intimidating to start reading and I wondered if it would be over my head as far as culturally and politically speaking. I was wrong. If anything, I'm learning alot about Sudan's struggles, its government, the SPLA (Sudan People's Liberation Army), and most significantly, the courage and resilience of its people.

So far I am in awe of the book, 143 pages in. I relaxed on my bed for a good hour or two last night, unable to peel my eyes away from the intriguing and tragic story. It chronicles the trials and tribulations of Valentino Achak Deng, a Sudanese man (pictured here above: found off http://www.valentinoachekdeng.org/ website) who must flee his ravaged, war torn country at a young age in search of freedom and a better way of life.

I couldn't help think of how lucky I am to never have to experience alot of the things this man has gone through throughout the course of his life.

I thought about what it must be like to hear guns being fired right outside your home, with the possiblity that rebels could set your house on fire.

I thought about what it must be like to be afraid to trek across the country in an attempt to flee danger...not knowing what dangers could come across your path along the way.

I thought about what it must feel like to watch your friends and family look death in the face as extremists snatched away lives in mere seconds in front of one's very eyes.

I thought about how scary it must be to run through fields of grass, with the very real possibility of being shot and captured by rebels...or worse, being captured and eaten alive by a lion!

I also wondered what it must be like to have to think quickly on your feet: when to run, where and when to hide, who to trust along the migrating journey of "Lost Boys of Sudan."

And I will never really have to know what it feels like. I. am. grateful.

Stories like Achak Deng's make my life problems and melancholy moods seem quite laughable.....and all the more inspiring toward understanding the human condition from a more hopeful perspective, that of compassion and resilience.

Time to get back to my reading of this book.....