Final Reflection: Three Cups of Tea

Three Cups of Tea by David Relin is a book about Greg Mortenson and his quest to build schools in the Middle East. It is nice to read a story full of so much compassion, caring, and selflessness. Reading it can teach one many things about the Middle Eastern people and culture. Greg Mortenson's journey throughout the book can teach everyone a lesson in perseverance.

Greg is an admirable man and was always doing the right thing. I feel if everyone in the world cared as much as he did it would be a better place. I admire the fact that he was willing to sleep in his car while he was collecting money to build his first school in Korphe. When Greg stopped his journey up K2 and met the children of Korphe he did not have to care about them, but he did. As a matter of fact, he was only climbing the mountain so he could remember his sister. He was always thinking of other people.

I learned a lot about the Middle East like: Muslim prayer, traditions, and customs. I also learned that not all of them hate Americans. I was under the impression that Muslims were taught to hate infidel, especially Americans, but that is not necessarily true. The people of Korphe loved Greg and treated him very well. Even the children trusted in and loved Greg.

Even when things got rough Greg didn't give up. He was so afraid at times but he never let his fear deter him from what he wanted to do. He also faced large obstacles, like Korphe needing a bridge. None of these things were able to stop Greg from building the school. It's too bad not everyone can believe in themselves like Greg believed in himself.

This book was also very humorous at times, making it lighthearted and easy to read. My favorite part was when Greg was talking to Guy Mohammed and told Guy he was American. Instead of being angry or scared Guy said "Okay Bill Clinton!" I literally laughed out loud when i read this.

Even though Three Cups of Tea is over, the real story isn't. Greg still continues to persevere and build schools. Greg 's life so far has been a fantastic journey. He has met some truly amazing people like Haji Ali and Mr. Hoerni. He has also experienced things a lot of people never will get to experience. Greg is an exceptional role model.