Three Cups of Tea

Three Cups of Tea is one of the most remarkable adventure stories of our time. Greg Mortenson’s dangerous and difficult quest to build schools in the wildest parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan is not only a thrilling read, it’s proof that one ordinary person, with the right combination of character and determination, really can change the world .’ -Tom Brokaw

Many people talk about righting wrongs and making a difference in the world, and then there are others who actually do something. After a trip to Kenya, a friend of mine made personal sacrifices to help build a school, a medical dispensary and start a microcredit program. As I told his story, another friend recommended this book. Mortenson is commitment and resolve personified. His original objective, to repay a personal debt by building a school in Pakistan, has become a lifelong mission.

From the official website: In an early effort to raise money he wrote letters to 580 celebrities, businessmen, and other prominent Americans. His only reply was a $100 check from NBC’s Tom Brokaw. Selling everything he owned, he still only raised $2,400. But his efforts changed when a group of elementary school children in River Falls, Wisconsin, donated $623.40 in pennies, who inspired adults to begin to take action. The 283 foot Braldu Bridge was completed in 1995 and the Korphe School was completed in 1996. Since then, he’s established 78 schools. In pursuit of his goal, Mortenson has survived an armed kidnapping, fatwas issued by enraged mullahs, repeated death threats, and wrenching separations from his wife and children. Yet his success speaks for itself.

I only partway through, but this story is inspirational.

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