A good end cannot sanctify evil means; nor must we ever do evil, that good may come of it... We are too ready to retaliate, rather than forgive... And yet we could hurt no man that we believe loves us. Let us try then what love will do: for if men did once see we love them, we should soon find they would not harm us. Force may subdue, but Love gains: and he that forgives first, wins the laurel.
William Penn

Be patterns, be examples in all countries, places, islands, nations wherever you come; that your carriage and life may preach among all sorts of people, and to them; then you will come to walk cheerfully over the world, answering that of God in everyone...
George Fox

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Stefano, Luca and Ken's Big Adventure

Paola is a teacher, and her son, Stefano, is a psychology student.  The day I left Novara,  Paola said farewell to her son, who would accompany me on the walk for peace to the village of Cassolnovo.

Luca would also join us. He is a student of Philosophy, and is a member of an association which informs the public of  Italy's Mafia. The courage needed to battle the Mafia would be needed on this hot, swampy, mosquito infested day.

In the beginning, plenty of energy as Luca navigates.



Then endless rice paddies, blazing heat, and aggressive daytime Tiger mosquitos wore us down.

A desolate village among the rice paddies.

A bit less cheerful now.

When will it end?

It is my opinion that the heat gave us our odd countenances.

Flowers?!

A nutria, unafraid,  stares us down
After nearly 20k, Paola rescues the lads. We parted with a big, sweaty hug.


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