Anti-American sentiment

[Michael P. Barham]

When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we will have experiences such as these.  What we learn from them, about who we are as well as about who they are, will help us make the world a better place, if we let it.

Just because someone says something with anger, doesn't mean it isn't true, or that we should not listen to them, even though it is harder to listen to them.  at the same time, we have to take everything with a grain of salt -- and I think you were wise for moving on ahead of him after hearing what he had to say.

peace,
Michael B


  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: M Parker 
  To: GOCAMINOaPETE.URI.EDU 
  Sent: Saturday, January 25, 2003 12:06 PM
  Subject: Re: Anti-American sentiment


  Sofia,  Yes,  there ARE unpleasant people everywhere. Where I live is no exception.   

  It's just that I was OUT there, by myself and trusting in the goodness of people on the Camino.  I chose not to travel with any group or did not gravitate to Americans for security and therefore felt somewhat vulnerable.  This young man was just an extremely unhappy person, and venting was a habit for him.  I was warned about him before I even met him,  because he was so well known for spreading ill will toward Americans.

  In all,  I felt safer and more accepted on the Camino than any other public place.....in  Europe or in the US, for that matter.   The Spanish who live along the Camino could not have been more cordial. I grew VERY fond of many of the pilgrims I met and I continue to correspond with several of them.  A few,  I expect to have long term friendships with.  
  Marianne


     

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