When I think of Abdoul, I think of peace. He speaks softly, in English and in Kinyarwanda, and listens loudly, eyes wide, leaning forward to hear you better. He feels like the friend you can sit in silence with for hours doing nothing. But Abdoul is far from a man who does nothing. 34 years […]

Many years ago, an elderly British politician was interviewed about his life and achievements. He had been both successful and influential, so it surprised the audience when the interview went as follows: Reporter: Looking back on what most people would think has been a remarkable life, do you have any regrets? Politician: Yes. I’m sorry […]

Most families have them: the beloved relative who returned from military service, more or less in one physical piece, but nevertheless a changed person. One hundred and two years ago, my great uncles, Sam and Leo were teenage brothers, fighting side by side, in the trenches of northern France. A bombardment buried them alive. Miraculously, […]