WELCOME TO 2-2-2 TUESDAY
Here are 2 Cultural Highlights, 2 Quotes, and 2 Brief Stories for you to enjoy.
Inspired by Bosnia & Herzogovina (Trebinje, Mostar, Medugorje, and Stolac)
2 CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS
1.
From War to Wanderlust:
Bosnia & Herzogovina. What comes to mind when you read the name of this country?
Perceptions can vary, but it’s generally recognized for its complex history, including the war in the 1990s. However, there is also growing awareness and appreciation for the natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the resilience of its people.
It was the striking contrasts that made feel so special over the course of our visit.
For example, if you were to explore the streets of Mostar, you’d likely see bullet holes and scars from conflicts stemming from the not so distant past.
While researching hiking areas, we were instructed to be very careful while hiking. Why? Landmines still haunt the hills around the city. This fact terrified us, and left us feeling sick. “Local hikers have to worry about landmines?,” I wondered to myself.
These ugly sides of human creation are almost unbelievable.
However, as you continue walking, it’s impossible to overlook the countless gardens with vegetable and flowers that seem to be part of every property. Epic arched bridges, cobblestone streets, and massive mature trees lining the roads. These features bring back a feeling of hope in humanity.
As usual, our interactions with the locals were among the most impactful experiences. Those who lived through the tough times of the 90s were not shy in talking about the raw struggles and pain from conflict. Yet, their stories always evolved into resilience and hope for a brighter future.
2.
Bosnia: Nature’s Playground
Have you ever seen a hedgehog in the wild?
No? Well then, let me tell you about the tiny hedgehog we found in Trebinje Bosnia. You will be happy to hear that “hoglet” hedgehogs, as they are called, are ridiculously adorable.
Its tiny body is covered in soft and prickly spines, forming a protective coat reminiscent of a miniature pincushion. It’s pink, and has a chubby belly. As it scoots along, it’s common for it to emit a series of soft, high-pitched chirps.
In terms of movement, the hoglet waddles and wiggles with an endearing clumsiness. Its short legs and round body make each step a delightful wobble, resembling a tiny adventurer venturing through the undergrowth.
Just when I thought the Balkan wilderness couldn’t possibly get any better, a hoglet hedgehog shuffled into view.
2 Quotes To Consider
- Life is made of ever so many partings welded together. -Charles Dickens
- Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.” -John D. Rockefeller
2 Brief Stories
1.
Rainy Day Rescue:
As the bus arrived in Mostar, the sky had opened up, unleashing a torrential downpour that flooded the streets.
At the rain-soaked bus station, my wife and I wondered how we’d get to the apartment we had booked. Just when hope seemed washed away, Omar, our host, offered to pick us up without us even asking.
Minutes later, he whisked us to the cozy apartment and treated us to cookies.
A few days later, his wife completed our laundry. Hurray for fresh socks! When we arrived to pick it up and pay, he refused to take money for the laundry service. The cherry on top? For a few minutes, he was happy to let us adopt his dog, Luna, as our Bosnian emotional support bulldog.
Over the course of our few days together, none of Omar’s acts of kindness felt forced. Nor did we get the sense that he was simply looking great reviews. He was just happy to help, which in turn made him a visibly happy man.
We’re taking notes, Omar.
2.
Bushwhacking in Bosnia:
“It’s not the destination. It’s the journey,” said Emerson.
And the journey usually starts with an idea…long before the first physical step is taken.
Earlier today, my adventurous wife and I looked up at sky high waterfalls as we stood in crystal clear and brilliant blue pools of fresh water. We were in the heart of the Balkans miles away from civilization. “How did we get here?,” we reflected in a moment of deep gratitude.
Our friend provided some GPS waypoints, which guided us just enough to find this secret gem.
We realized, that the majority opportunities in life are only possible because of the many incredible people and technologies that have been established before our arrival. For that, we are grateful.
Thanks for tuning in to 2-2-2 Tuesday!
If you have any feedback, comments, or suggestions, we’d love to hear from you. Have a wonderful week!
– Zack and Farah
