Friday, March 31, 2006

Spring has arrived in Lisbon


Well it is been some time since I entered the blog…I have been very busy…walking, walking and walking.

A few days ago, I went downtown and saw the Lisbon contingency of demonstrators
Marching in support of the young workers of France. Those marching were vocal and passionate. But, the crowd was small.

I saw about four young people standing and asked them if they spoke English. Almost all of them did. When I asked why they were not in the protest…they responded that it would not do any good. “Portugal does not pay attention to her people,” a young lady said. The rest of the people agreed. So I challenged them! I asked them why do they not get involved and determine that they do have a voice…well you know me...within a few moments; several other young people joined the crowd and listened. Now it was a small crowd listening to this man from America. As I started to leave, I told them that I would be back in twenty years and would like to see them and ask them what they have done to contribute to change in Portugal. They were very gratified to have had the discussion with me and thanked me.

As I walked away, I realized how happy I was…. how much joy it brings to me to help clarify some vision for others. This experience has made me realize that I am capable of doing that and how I must embrace that part of who I am. I share this with you because for most of my life I have denied that part of me….This is a personal learning experience and I thought I would share it with you.

Yesterday, Vanda and I spent the entire day…walking…we visited the castle of King George… It was pretty impressive. As usual, I approached someone who was speaking English and found them to be from San Francisco. They were not Giant fans and good for them. We really had a great time. I took some great quality photos, many of them of Vanda. I realized that I really enjoy photography. It is very relaxing and allows me to share some of my personal moments with special people such as you. I hope you have%2

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