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March 25, 2011
Looking back—and ahead—at Egypt on the anniversary of Harriet’s Corner
Two years ago this month, we launched Harriet’s Corner—this interactive place on the OAT website especially for travelers like you. And since you’re just as passionate about exploring the world as I am, I’ve really enjoyed hearing your travel stories—and experiencing new destinations and friendships through your eyes—while sharing my own with you. I hope you feel the same way, and that you'll continue to be a part of the Harriet’s Corner community.
In one of my earliest journal entries—Anticipating Egypt—I recalled the first time I saw the incomparable Great Pyramids and how much I looked forward to going back to Egypt (which I did soon after writing that entry). Now, just two years later, so much has happened and changed there (and continues to as I write) that I feel a similar sense of anticipation. Not only am I eager to see how the Egyptian people embrace democracy, but all of us at OAT are excited about returning to Egypt as a company. In fact, I simply can’t wait to hear from the adventurous OAT travelers and associates who joined our first trips back since the historic political events of February.
Speaking of our ever-changing planet, I can’t sign off without saying a few words about the devastating earthquake and tsunami that recently occurred in northeastern Japan. While nothing I say can truly express how much I love Japan, I join the rest of the world in sending my sincerest hopes and good wishes to its incredible—and resilient—people as they grapple with this national crisis. And finally, I want to dedicate this inspiring Buddhist prayer to the people of Japan, and to any of you with family or friends there …
Prayer for Freedom from Suffering
May all beings everywhere plagued
with sufferings of body and mind
quickly be freed from their illnesses.
May those frightened cease to be afraid,
and may those bound be free.
May the powerless find power,
and may people think of befriending one another.
May those who find themselves in trackless, fearful wilderness
—the children, the aged, the unprotected—
be guarded by beneficent celestials,
and may they swiftly attain Buddhahood.
Do you have any stories, memories, or photos from your own travels in Egypt or Japan? If so, I’d love to hear from you. You can share your thoughts—and photos—with others by posting your comments below this Journal entry, or you can email me directly at harriet@oattravel.com.
Harriet Lewis