A story from Abidjan about the distance we create, the encounters we avoid, and what happens when we finally stop moving.

After fleeing Iraq, a seasoned expat faces the stark contrast of his past life with a new existence in America. Through therapy and unexpected friendships, he begins to find purpose and healing in a world that feels both foreign and familiar.

This chapter navigates from an American insurrection to an exploration in Iraq, reflecting on the complexity of history, human judgment, resilience amidst destruction, and the empowering force of grace in seeking restoration amid chaos.

*Shortlisted for the 2021 Annie Dillard Award for Creative Nonfiction.

A teacher's encounter with a refugee camp leads to a personal mission advocating for refugees, triggered by being stranded on a Greek island during the pandemic.

Through evocative memories of childhood fascination with a globe-trotting presenter and a flight attendant's transient existence, a journey unfolds, bridging the past and present, culminating in a poignant message of gratitude to the inspirational figure who ignited a lifelong passion for exploration and understanding diverse cultures.