It’s easy to look at a war torn country and view those involved as “them”. It’s easy to ignore the human side. Traveling changes that. They become us; there becomes here. Instead of just nameless humans, there are people with plans and dreams; people with families; people who love, hate, get sad and are joyous. People who, just like you and me, want to feed their family and provide them with shelter.

This video is a reminder how close and similar we all really are. I don’t know where these people are now; whether they are dead or alive, injured, scared, in refugee camps, excited by their future in their own country or another, progressing through life with positiveness. I don’t know their losses or their successes. But, each one of them welcomed me to their country, showed me kindness, respect, hospitality and were interested in my life and in sharing their own. WIth some it was just a moment, others weeks, but with all it was an interaction of friends. I pray that all are well and safe.