''A long way gone'', but hitting home in this Starbucks nation

As I was ordering my tall skim latte two weeks ago at Starbucks, my eyes -- always looking for something new -- wandered to their CD collection and its latest contribution to the greater global good, a new book called A Long Way Gone, Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah. I picked it up and started reading, then immediately had to buy it. It was certainly a long way from this Starbucks on Park Avenue to this young boy's tragic story in Sierra Leone during that country's civil war in the 1990s.

When Ishmael was 12, his family and town were decimated by rebel forces. Ishmael got away and for a year he wandered and witnessed the most atrocious acts that continue to haunt his every waking moment. At 13, he was picked up and made to be one of them -- the rebel attackers. What followed was hell on earth that seems unimaginable to most of us, and unthinkable when you look at your own kids and all they are so fortunate to have. Ishmael learned to kill, and he learned to laugh at the bloodied bodies he would then stomp on with the other kids-- all brainwashed. But Ishmael was one of the lucky ones because he was rescued by UNICEF in 1998. He was sent here to the U.S. and after a lot of rehabilitation and learning how to forgive himself, he was able to go on and graduate high school and in 2004 he graduated from Oberlin College.

The memoir opens with what could be a typical scene at any high school, though this one in NYC and the conversation is disturbing. Ishmael's friends ask him why he had to leave Sierra Leone. He says simply, because there is war. They ask, did you witness some of the fighting. He says everyone did. They press on, you mean you saw people running around with guns and shooting each other? He says, yes, all the time. To which his friends reply, "Cool." Teenagers, perhaps, but they could not know at the time all that he did to survive, to be able to be in the hallways of a New York city high school. What a faraway land that war seemed... and to this day according to UNICEF there are still an estimated 300,000 child soldiers in the more than 50 conflicts around the world. But that war in Sierra Leone, brought to your and my nearest Starbucks where $2 dollars of each book purchase will go to UNICEF -- which saved Ishmael's and so many other young children's lives.

Coincidentally, as I am now midway through the book, last week I read an article about it in the New York Times (March 10) and was glad to learn it has had great success in sales and Ishmael Beah is generating so much buzz. Perhaps it was a risky choice for Starbucks, but it proves perhaps we are hungering for more depth and a greater understanding of what is happening around the world.

I can only imagine what the once boy soldier must now think when he sees people buying their lattes or cappuccinos and a copy of his memoir -- thankfully, he has come a long long way.

Comments

I go to the UN School, where he went. Apparently the administration was reluctant to take him because of his past, but turned out really glad they did. It's interesting to hear about it from the teachers who knew him!

Natalie,
This morning's news included coverage of the anti-war protesters who marched in Washington, but there was no mention of the thousands who came to stand in solidarity with our troops and the administration. In the eyes of NBC, don't we count?

The media reports that we are a nation divided on this issue, then proceeds to cover only one side of the story.

There's a significant body of evidence to support the Zogby Poll released on March 14, 2007, which found that 83% of likely voters believe that the media is biased.

Also reported by Zogby...American voters remain skeptical of major news outlets diving in to the blog pool...believing that blogs give news organizations a chance to promote a political agenda they could not promote in regular broadcasts.

It's something for all journalists to keep in mind, as it is on the minds of many viewers.

One of the admirable things about Meredith Vieira's blog is that she prints both pro and con comments. Here's hoping you'll be as fair.

Thank you.

Natalie,
This morning's news included coverage of the anti-war protesters who marched in Washington, but there was no mention of the thousands who came to stand in solidarity with our troops and the administration. In the eyes of NBC, don't we count?

The media reports that we are a nation divided on this issue, then proceeds to cover only one side of the story.

There's a significant body of evidence to support the Zogby Poll released on March 14, 2007, which found that 83% of likely voters believe that the media is biased.

Also reported by Zogby..American voters remain skeptical of major news outlets diving in to the blog pool..believing that blogs give news organizations a chance to promote a political agenda they could not promote in regular broadcasts.

It's something for all journalists to keep in mind, as it is on the minds of many viewers.

One of the admirable things about Meredith Vieira's blog is that she prints both pro and con comments. Here's hoping you'll be as fair.

Thank you.

Hey Natalie,

I’m the Meteorologist for the NBC Affiliate in Buffalo (WGRZ Ch2) and of course we watch the Today Show each morning while we eat lunch… yeah I said lunch. I am writing to find out who makes light blue coat you were sporting this morning (Thurs 3/22). It looked great on air! No it’s not for me… hahaha but I’d love to get it for my girlfriend. If you would be so kind to reveal the label and where you might have picked it up, it would truly brighten my day!

Thanks so much for the laughs in the AM!

Andy

Andy Parker
Meteorologist
WGRZ-TV NBC2
Buffalo, NY

andy.parker@wgrz.com

Natalie Morales hello, I am a 25 year old man, in southern Australia, where Today airs daily from 4 - 6 AM I usually watch for half an hour around 5 am, and I just love the show havebeen watching for four years. I just looked up today on wikipedia and learned you have a blog, very nice, and I found out how old you are, may I say you look like 29 at the oldest, you're extraordinarily hot may I be so bold as to say. I love the show, and good luck with the blog I will be back.

I sometimes watch the show from 10-11 a.m. and am disappointed in your interviewing techniques. Many times you are either talking over, or interrupting the expert discussing the topic and therefore, information is missed. I watched Al Roker this morning during the food segment and thought maybe you should listen and learn from some that have more experience in interviewing. He was able to get the information while moving the segment along, and did it without interruption, or talking over the expert.

Ishmael was on the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer yesterday. A great story to hear(and read about). Natalie, I think you should get him on the Today Show he's a very bright and articulate person.

Daniel

It is despicable to see journalists whose fame and fortune are tied to Don Imus hammering away at those who are holding Imus accountable....attempting to secure REDEMPTION for Imus....because that redemption would:

1) boost their status in the eyes of Imus

2) give them an inside joke to laugh about when they resume their appearances on the Imus show

3) give them and fellow journalists reason to high five each other over drinks

4) loosen the standards by which they can continue to operate

What kind of fools do you take us for? It's insulting!

today you talked to a gentleman from shell coporation who state that the;ve been into bio alternative fuels for 30 years, but don't cocern corn as fuels as it takes away from food. do you realize how many farmers are being paid not to farm by the government?????? it's in the thousands, possible millions. so if the farmers planted corn instead of taking governmental payments, why not plant corn??

Natalie-

Breathe easily. I'm not angry at you or the media about anything, appreciate your interview style and enjoy both you and the Today Show each morning. Are you considering running the Boston Marathon?

Hi Natalie,

Watch my 12 year old son,Cole, sing on youtube.com Search "Collide by Cole". His movie he wrote is on youtube.com also. Thanks.

Natalie,

I bought a group of 42 parents and students from my school to NYC last week and we went to the Today Show on Tuesday, June 5th. I want to thank you for being so gracious to our group--shaking hands and talking with us as you awaited the arrival of Jerry Springer for his segment. It is refreshing to see that you and your other Today Show members, especially Ann Curry, are so personable--don't change.

Gary Phillips
Vandebilt Catholic H.S.
Houma, La.

Very good story. I saw an interview with this young man a few days ago and immediately ordered the book from Barnes & Noble, can't wait till it arrives. On another note Ms. Morales, I have read several of your blogs & discovered that you a very good writer. Keep it up!

It's absolutely incredible to see how many people have complimented such a talentless and phony journalist. Sure, your words seem thoughtful and eloquent, and some of them may be; however, what I witnessed when I attended the Today Show recently was a cold and arrogant woman unprepared for and undeserving of her present position. You never treat your interviewees with any respect whatsoever, interrupting them every five seconds. You can blog eloquently all you want- you're still a nobody who thinks she's somebody, talentless at the core.

Unfortunately should probably put this blog to rest due to inactivity.

Natalie,

Take a breath once in a while. You're as cute as you could be, but you mow over interview after interview. Listen to the answer instead of relating to the question you just asked while they are trying to answer. I have watched your interviewees wince as though it was painful because you just go on and on. Please watch a tape of yourself. You could be huge in news, but right now you have the appearance of a star and the technique of an intern. Please do better, I am confident you can. Just keep quiet once in a while. Imagine a waiter asking what you want for breakfast and then, without stopping, telling you what he had and why breakfast is so important to him. Would you care? Would you think it was rude? That's how you come off when you run on after you ask a question. You are cute, though I tend to go iron something when you come on anymore.

Natalie, do you wear a thong, bikini style or no panties at all, please blog about this subject...

Natalie, do you wear a thong, bikini style or no panties at all, please blog about this subject...

Congratulations on fooling most of the country into thinking you are a beautiful, sweet woman- not! You should be ashamed of yourself. A friend of mine, young composer Mike Ellis, used to speak so highly of you- he thought you were a "beautiful journalist with budding talent." Eventually, as I understand from conversing with him, he came into contact with you. According to him things started out fine- you were everything you seemed to be on television. That is until he asked you if he could have an original composition performed on television because it had always been his dream to be featured in some way on the Today Show. And, according to him, you responded by accusing him of harassing you! How dare you! He is one of the most talented people I have ever met and was destined for greatness. Now he is devastated. Congratulations, Natalie, you're so sweet and kind you broke a high schooler's heart. You're disgusting!

I'm not real confortable with having someone like that immigrate to the United states. Who's to say he won't kill again.

Dear Natalie,

A belated thank you is due you for having said, "Robert Rodriguez is in in my book," after my Anchor For A Day video was aired back on February 7, 2007.

I did a spoof on SNL's "The Continental" in which I said about you, "she is a mini Caroline Kennedy."

FYI - The airing of my video was especially appreciated because on that very morning we were burying my dad, who had been suffering with Alzheimer's. I was touched to read about your husband's parent. Those of us who get to care for a parent are truly privileged as this is a special gift, one that I believe on a spiritual level is comprehended despite the illness.

On another matter, your being a runner has inspired me to get back on my running program so that I can do the New York Marathon before I'm 50.

Finally, I will be turning 45 on August 3rd, which is also Tony Bennett's birthday. See me as Sinatra at www.concarinomedia.com

Happy belated birthday.

Con carino y mucho respeto,
Roberto V. Rodriguez

Whats the point? Disk space might be better used to "Journalist".

I LOVE that book! It was sad but very uplifting. You should check out Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight and Scribbilng the Cat: Memoirs of an African Soldier. It's a different perspective but still very enlightening, and even entertaining.

Natalie,

Are you ever going to update your blog?

Hi Nat -
Congrats on all your success!
Ed

I don't know if Natalie Morales still posts or reads this but I followed your whole segment "Today Runs a Marathon" . . . do you still run and keep upw tih running? Do you do other kinds of exercise as well?

Hi Natalie,

I am a long-time today show viewer. Your addition to the team has been wonderful. I often admire the clothes you wear, in particular, a knee-length, belted grey coat you have worn recently. Can you tell me the manufacturer and where it was purchased? Thanks.

Dear Natalie: I also loved the blue coat. So much I almost emailed you to say I love that caot. I think you have to interupt the experts some times because i think that when you do it is because they are not answering the question you asked them. Your so pretty it doesn't matter any way. Just be where we can see you and that will do just fine. Love Marty. Have a happy day.

Yay! Your'e back!!

Natalie:

A well done story and I was quite impressed and inspired by the uplifting story of Ishmael. Let's hope that this policy of Starbuck's donating a portion of the sales of these items to UNICEF grows and allows many other children to escape the horrors of war and human suffering. That doesn't mean that I would drink Starbucks coffee . . . You are an outstandingly beautiful woman and an impressive correspondent. You very fortunately have been given these gifts along with a razor sharp mind. Keep it going girl, and you may be on track for president. The difference between you and Hillary is that you would really deserve the honor.

Dear Natalie: Oh nothin! Just kidding. I think the ring's... It's just fun to try it. I think it's a markting stratgey, you know? Make it a place to have fun and sell them food while they are there. This morning Kade was getting ready for school and he lost his dollar but I found one and he was san and said dady? I lost my dollar so I gave him the one I found and he said," Daddy, you'er a good father. It was just sweet that's all. Natalie? You know I'm wating to write to Katie. I'm killin time. I will go. Bye bye. Love Marty

There should be more news reporters/journalist like you. Seriously, if you were on every morning, on the Today Show, I would make a point to watch it. You and Matt look great. I think it was a mistake for NBC to reach out to the older crowd with Meredith Vieira. A woman like you would bring in so many more viewers. Katie was beautiful and captivating, and you are three steps ahead of her. I wish you the best.

Natalie,

Why don't you post anymore?

Hi Natalie. I read the transcript of your interview today with Jenny McCarthy. I hope your producers will take time to set the record straight about some of McCarthy's unsupported claims regarding autism. Her tireless "advocacy" is scaring parents, and the American Academy of Pediatrics is very concerned about a decline in vaccinations. I know Jenny is cute and funny and quirky, but she is also demonstrably wrong when she talks about autism. The Today Show has an opportunity to get out in front of an important story, for which the nation's 700,000 physicians will be very grateful and relieved. Please please please do the right thing. Thank you.

Hey Natalie,

Let's have your blog back!!! I miss you. Plus, you are a great role model for young women, women with families, and just in general. Start typing! :)

HEY NAT!

Nice to hear your eyes are always looking for something new. I'm new. I'm brand new. Like a 2009 model car... that's me. See you at Starbucks, you fine piece o' tail. Oh hey, you are on right now... gotta put on that NBC!

Hi Natalie!
I do not really know if you are the person I am lookong for. I am looking for a friend I had in Rio de Janeiro in 1979 until 1981. We visited the american school in Rio. Maybe you are the right Natalie...please let me know.

Agnes Josch (former Mueller)

Hello? Anybody home? :)

Hi Natalie,
You have looked radiant during your pregnancy.
I'm pregnant with my 2nd child due in February.

Do you mind sharing where you are finding all your chic maternity clothes?

Always enjoy my mornings with you and the Today show family.
Jenny

The safety of children is the most important thing parents think about. We are two moms that have made it our mission to help children stay safe - we are personal safety educators and started a company called KidSafe USA - www.kidsafe-usa.com - Our mission is to teach children, parents and teachers personal safety (the prevention of sexual abuse and abduction of children)We have written a curriculum from prek4 - 5th grade and we visit schools and teach an 8 week program to children - we provide seminars for parents and teachers and we have published a children's picture book - Jack Teaches His Friends to be KidSafe and it is a must read for children and their parents. Jack a first grader teaches his friends important lessons his mom taught him about personal safety - this book has wonderful graphics, written in rhyme and most important the message is fun and non threatening . The back of the book has a parent component to help continue the lessons this books teaches into every parents daily life. Your viewers

First let me say thank you for what you are doing to help the Alzheimer’s Association. I am 38 years old and care for my 80 year old Dad who has Alzheimer’s and lives with me in NC.

We are building a “Green” 5000+ square foot family care home for people with early stage dementia in Winston-Salem, NC. Our residents at “Almost Home” will be people in the early stages of dementia like my Dad, except for whatever reason, their only choices are to live alone or go to an assisted living facility.

Since my Mom died in 2004, I have been living and working with my Dad to make sure that he gets all of the mental exercise, physical exercise, pharmaceuticals, vitamins and stimulation it requires to slow the progress of Alzheimer’s disease. He has had it for about nine years and is still doing pretty well. That is not usually the case after nine years.

I found that most of the existing assisted living facilities did not provide enough care and the Alzheimer’s units were too much care. He is stuck “in-between”.

So I decided to build one myself that is a combination of the two. It will house six residents and have a live-in nurse, a full time activities director, a daytime nurse and me. We will make sure that these folks are taken care of 24/7 mind, body and soul. There will be schedules and activities, which is integral in slowing the dementia process.

I have hired a LEED certified architect and we plan to build the home to US Green Building Council’s “LEED for Homes” specifications, as well as to NC licensure guidelines for Family care homes. The architect is Jill Spaeh out of Greensboro, and she is wonderful.

We are planning to utilize solar, gray water, rain water collection, geothermal, Energy Star everything, local building materials, etc. We will also be teaching the residents about recycling, composting and Sustainable living. We will have vegetable, herb and flower gardens. These will not only preserve the earth for the next generation, but the sorting and gardening are both great mental activities that really help people with dementia.

This is a funny story: http://www.knowitalz.com/community/alzheimer-s/like-kermit-the-frog.html

Please let me know if you have any questions, or need any more information.

We need funding for this project and thought you may have a suggestion about how we can make this dream a reality.

I really look forward to hearing from you.

Kathy Hatfield
336-924-1007
www.KnowItAlz.com

I'm sure you heard it a gazillion times in your adult life, and I feel a bit cheezy saying it here, but you are the most amazingly beautiful woman out there by far! There, I got that off my chest.

Natalie, on your show this morning Feb. 17, you had on a beautiful blue winter coat. Can I ask where you got it or the designer? Thank you so much! Ann
Annbare01@yahoo.com