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something precious
There was something beautiful in the mail a few days ago. I knew what it was before I opened it.
“I have always loved this book,” the sender had told me, “but I am nearing the end of my life and would love to find a good home for it.”
She had thought of me because I shared the same route with the dudes in the book.
I didn’t know what to say. It was too overwhelming.
…
But I accepted. When I found out we both shared a love for photography, I asked her to put a picture of herself inside the book. I promised to later add my own photograph as well.
That way, if eventually the day came to pass it on to the next friend, her memory would still be inside the book, along with my own.
I haven’t started reading from it yet. I am looking for a suitable place to put it first:
“Pekin to Paris. An Account of Prince Borghese’s Journey across two Continents in a Motor-Car. By Luigi Barzini.”
Books used to really have titles in the old days, I thought.
But would it feel comfortable around my other books?
I was unsure, most of them suddenly seemed so…
…ordinary.
…
When I found the picture she had put in the book, a black and white shot from 1946…
…my mind went blank for a second.
There was something in my eye.
Tears? I blamed them on
the surgery.
Then I had to smile.
…
Thank you my friend, I thought.
Don’t you worry, your book
is with me now.
And I will keep it well.
…
Soundtrack: Georges Moustaki – “J’ai Vu Des Rois Serviles”
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December 20th, 2009 at 17:55
how delightful
December 20th, 2009 at 23:24
This is a truly touching story…must be an unbelievable experience
December 21st, 2009 at 10:08
and after i climb over the wall (is that the word? heh) seeing those pictures…i realize your collection of chinese books will make a lot of chinese people feel not so chinese…maybe me included.
December 21st, 2009 at 14:21
very moving …
Well, I was checking pictures on Google Earth northwest China when I notice that most pics coming from you. I have since read every post on your blog and I’m deeply touched. My uttermost respect to you, for you courage, you strong will and your endurance. Thank you for documenting your journey with videos, pictures and your insights and sharing all these with us.
Although you stopped, I think you have already made remarkable achievement by putting hundreds pictures on Google Earth for people to have a real feel of those places, by inspiring thousands to pursue their dreams of exploring the world.
I believe this amazing journey will stay with you forever and the perspectives you gained from the journey will benefit your whole life tremendously.
Best wishes!
By the way, in my mind you already gained a degree on your major China Studies. You have obtained more knowledge, insights, experience about China through this journey than from sitting in the class.
December 26th, 2009 at 15:29
Yes! ditto what A.X. says!
January 5th, 2010 at 18:44
Books are a beautiful thing sometimes. I'm now holding a printed copy of the one that I just finished writing last month, and waiting for the first blogger review, due Friday.
But I think that your book is something even more special, coming with a strong memory and an old photograph of a friend. A great moment!
February 24th, 2010 at 22:55
Chris, you read Chinese ?
April 3rd, 2010 at 20:07
You need to write your own book. Please, please, please do. I would buy and read it in one sitting. I love your story and i hope the rest of your journey will go well.