Phillyist Interviews... Ishmael Beah

Yesterday, Phillyist let you know that tonight, Ishmael Beah will be in town to promote his memoir, A Long Way Gone. We had the opportunity to ask Beah a few questions of our own about his experiences, so read on, and then head over to see him in person tonight!

To be quite honest, I've had difficulty coming up with questions to ask you, because I feel that anything I ask could bring to the surface painful memories for you. In writing A Long Way Gone, and in the many speaking engagements you do, however, you must consistently recall such memories. Is there anything you feel particularly enables you to do this?
After having survived that war, I know what it feels like to suffer, to lose family, to lose my humanity and regain it, to know that violence of any form is not good and it only brings about suffering and nothing more. So, for me the strength comes from not wanting anyone to go through what I went through. Therefore, remembering, however difficult, is a small price to pay to expose the continuous and rampant use of children in war.

You have mentioned that at varying times, you've practiced Buddhism, Judaism, and Catholicism. Did the various religious teachings you've encountered play a role in your transition to life outside of Sierra Leone? Do they still?
I have taken the good tenets of all these religions and use them in my life when appropriate. But what allows me to transition is that I have this capacity to adapt very quickly to wherever I am, and my deep appreciation for life.

Within the past few years, the American media has begun focusing more on Sierra Leone. What are your feelings on such coverage?
It is very good because often times the media attention is only focused on places when the level of violence and atrocities happening there shocks humanity. I hope that there will be interest in reporting about these places when good things are happening as well.

Since moving to America, have you been in contact with people who have experienced similar things as yourself?
Yes, both from Sierra Leone and other parts of the world, through the UN, and when I was back home last June.

Have you traveled back to Sierra Leone since leaving, or have you considered returning at any point in the future? You've mentioned living with your uncle when you were attending the UNICEF psycho-social school - are you still in touch with him?
Yes, I was in Sierra Leone last year and would go again whenever I have the time, I even plan to live there at some point. My uncle passed away at some point in the war but when I returned, I was able to find some of my cousins.

Starbucks and Hyperion Entertainment Present
A Long Way Gone Book Tour
Featuring Author Ishmael Beah
Starbucks
4th and South Streets
Tonight, 7PM

Image via canada.com.