Matter of perspective

MATTER OF PERSPECTIVE (Best Letter)
Amanda Lindhout's story ('There's power in being able to let go', May 1) is a testament to how barbaric the human race can get, and how a sparkle of courage and compassion can turn the bleakest of situations into an epic story that can inspire millions.
As [shipping magnate] Aristotle Onassis once said, "It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light." The words remind us about how Amanda used a different perspective to not only survive - but succeed at what she originally set out to do.
The unimaginable horrors she endured would've broken anyone. But it takes someone truly special to be able to turn that anger into compassion, and travel down the road to healing. It is in adversity that you either find or lose yourself, after all, depending on how you react and adapt.
This particular article intrigued me; her experience is something I could relate to as a survivor of the deadly tsunami that hit Southeast Asia in 2004. Though the two events are different, positivity was the key to getting through both crises. A lesser person may never have recovered from the emotional and physical trauma that Amanda had to go through, let alone return and help the people of the very place that she was tortured in, in the first place.
But as the title states, I too have found that there is immense power in letting go. The freedom in being able to forgive, and replace the negativity in your heart with love, is far sweeter than revenge. For what you dwell on, you receive more of the same and what you wish unto others, you unconsciously wish unto yourself. Amanda used her experience to teach the world that miracles often grow out of difficulties and how you perceive what happens to you controls what you do about it.
This brings to mind one of my favourite sayings by Anne Frank: "How wonderful is it that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world!" Amanda was dealt the worst possible hand, but her spirit endured and she has emerged a winner. I think that deserves nothing less than a standing ovation. - Paraj Kumar Singh
Congratulations on your winning entry, Paraj Kumar Singh! We will be in touch soon.
 
» TRAVEL LESSONS
There is a big difference between a tourist and a traveller (Travel Diaries, May 1). The former will attempt to charm you with a long list of places visited while the latter will intrigue you with experiences gained during off-the-beaten-track escapades. Yes, travel is an expensive affair, but one which changes the way you look at the world around you.
It may not reap you monetary dividends (except, of course, if you turn your passion into a profession, like H. Jeppesen did!) but the cultural wisdom it affords you is priceless. Travel teaches you to be more tolerant, less materialistic, more appreciative of what you have (try volunteering in a traditional Ethiopian village), and how to be financially wise.
All the travel tips given by the travellers featured were worth bearing in mind. Always travel light with a first aid kit and a dictionary in the local language of the place you're flying to at the top of your suitcase. Research widely on the weather and culture before you leave to avoid culture shock. Maintain a journal and carry a small camera to capture memories that will last you a lifetime, long after your initial euphoria fades. While counting countries visited may be fun, recounting experiences is soul-satisfying.
Memories of my experiences feeding orangutans in Singapore, caressing tigers in Thailand and hot air ballooning in Turkey adorn my bedroom wall. But one of my favourites is a picture of my family sand-boarding in a local desert resort right here in the UAE. We hardly felt the pinch in our pockets and had the time of our lives. It goes to show that travel is not necessarily for the rich - but for those who believe that true wealth lies in experiencing new cultures and widening your vistas. - Nixon, by email
 
» COMPASSION WINS
Every religion preaches letting go of resentment and ill feeling. I always thought this was easier said than done, until I read war correspondent Amanda Lindhout's story ('There's power in being able to let go', May 1). Her words pierced my heart. She redefines forgiveness and bravery in a ruthless world. After reading her bone-chilling story, the only thing I could think of was the well-known analogy where a villager once advised an angry man to add a tomato to his sack for every time the latter felt frustrated. In time, the man's bag grew heavier and heavier till he could no longer bear its weight - at which point the villager reminded him that his anger was exactly like that sack. The more you hold on to it, the greater the burden gets.
Kudos to this brave journalist for sharing her story. I am really looking forward to seeing the movie and gaining a new perspective on life and humanity. Anureet Kaur, Dubai