Maintaining a blog while living in a high-threat country is a tricky challenge. I am benefiting from a very unique cross-cultural education and want to share my experiences with others, but the openness of a blog always entails some risk. I was originally willing to assume that risk because I care so strongly about communicating across the gap between civilizations, but circumstances have finally led me to reconsider that decision. The security situation now requires that I close up shop.
I will still be pursuing my personal mission of building peace: studying issues of war and peace, seeking to understand the world’s most intractable conflicts, and searching out realistic ways to manage or solve them. Perhaps it’s for the best that I’m closing down now. My time in-country is rapidly running out, and I need to devote my energy to making the most of the remaining months. I have so much to learn and hope to make every day count. I intend to immerse myself as deeply as possible in the culture this year. When I emerge at the other end, I will look for opportunities to share what I’ve learned. I will also look for ways to turn this knowledge into action: to roll up my sleeves and do the hard, practical work of building peace.
I’ve enjoyed sharing with you, and I’ve met some fantastic people along the way. It’s truly been a great journey. I hope to see you all again soon. Reach 364 out.
