Step Along for the Journey

1. From how the book is structured, I also see it as a type of journey going from community to community around the world. It is very detailed in the way it presents itself with images, questions, beliefs and gives readers a different type of perspective than most books. I believe that the author chose this kind of structure to tell the stories of their journeys in communities to invite readers along for the ride and keeping them involved. By breaking the fourth wall and talking to the audience, it also helps the readers to understand it better and make connections.

2.
What is community?
"You are welcome here and sent to meet two members of the political council, who will tell you the story of this place--its history, its idealogy, its practices" (33).
Through this quote, it is indicating that the narrator is inviting the reader into their world and helping them understand the base of how their community was formed. The Zapatistas are accepting them as a part of their environment and are telling audience members their story.

How will we tell the story of meaningful connection?
"Before you descend from this misty highland village, the Zapatistas will make one request of you: Will you remember their story? Will you let it remain in your heart and provoke your imagination?" (41).
This quote indicates that the Zapatistas are asking readers to share their story and pass it along so others can also understand their village. By doing so, it will contribute towards giving people a story of meaningful connection.

What makes our lives meaningful?
"But as we get busier, move faster, and generally are more distracted, we often stop noticing that there are other versions of reality. It takes slowing down and reflecting on our experiences to notice that there are many ways to live life, to understand situations, to solve problems" (42).
When you calm down and appreciate your experiences, you'll be able to understand the meaning of life. Many people stress and fail to see these things causing them to freak out and worry about their problems. Its not until a person takes the time to stop and reflect that they'll understand what it means to live life.

3.
One of the strategies used by the community of Brazil that I found most applicable to MCCS would probably be the strategy of SESC or the Social Service of Commerce Center. I feel that this would be best fit because it'd give the kids at MCCS an opportunity to connect on a different and more cultural level. From movements to dances, it brings communities together and I think this would be something awesome for a school like MCCS. "This oasis has magic in it--a magic that beckons people to stop by, to contribute, to create something beautiful together" (61).