One Book Sacramento Essay Contest
Teen category 3rd place:Leija Mahoney
Ananda Living Widsom High School
Nevada City
Three Cups of Tea was like a deep cleansing breath of fresh air when I finally turned the last page. Each individual who has the great luck to pick up this book, experiences their own personal journey; many have expressed their feelings of inspiration to me. My experience was one of deep joy and gratitude for Greg and all that he has done, but also, I felt a sense of kinship with him. Most of my life I have had the desire to serve people in someway. I had been thinking of possibly starting schools or opening orphanages in rural areas, once I had graduated high school, or preferably college. I was explaining these aspirations to my mom, likely over a cup of tea, when she mentioned the book to me. My mom and I are avid tea drinkers so I was understandably intrigued when I first heard the title. Little did I know what I was in for and I soon found myself so deeply immersed and overjoyed to be reading such a beautiful piece of work. It was both educating and interesting. To be honest, reading non fiction is not something that I would consider enjoyable most of the time, but his book was different. It pulled at all of my heart strings and resonated so perfectly, so completely, with me.
I was amazed to read about the people of the Middle East through the eyes of Greg. I found his interpretation of them to be so genuine and felt that he had a great respect for them and their culture. In turn, l found myself feeling gratitude and awe for the people and their culture. I know that Americans tend to take education for granted so hearing about children who not only did not have a school but craved one so earnestly seemed unjust to me. They deserve a fair education as much as I do.
I have had the great fortune to see Greg talk about his work and experiences. He spoke of his book and also what followed. I was mesmerized by his words and his grace. He was humble before his audience and yet had accomplished so much more than many people ever dream of. Later, in school, I gave a presentation on the book and my experience. I spoke of Greg and his mission and I found that through my inspiration others were also inspired. It was contagious.
I am now ever more persistent in reaching my goals. I have a beautiful model and example to follow. I can't wait! And it's all because of a book I read, Three Cups of Tea.