By Marshall Thompson
This is an apolitical entry about one of the most controversial figures in world politics today: Pres. Barack Obama. I’m the only American at the Asian Trekking base camp, and I’ve only met one other American since I’ve been here. People often ask me what I think of Obama. I return the question, and have been constantly surprised by a uniformly positive response.
In fact, I found out that one of our guides, Kami Tshering Sherpa, took a picture of Obama to the top of Everest for his first summit. It was surprising. I would never think of taking a picture of the Prime Minister of Nepal with me anywhere. That’s nothing against the Prime Minister of Nepal, whose name escapes me at this time. It’s just not a priority.
So, I asked Kami, “Why Obama?”
He said that he likes Obama very much and was inspired by him. He took the picture up because he hoped it would be a symbol of increased cooperation and respect between the two countries.
I’m with Kami.
P.S. Kami asked me if I could show this photo to the White House. I said, maybe, but don’t expect anything. Does anybody have a contact there? Let us know.
Can we have some more news related to the Expidition?? Wondering what the whole group is up to??!! How is the trek across Khumbu Ice Fall??!!
Marshall, I have contacted Orrin Hatch’s office to see if someone on his staff could facilitate Kami’s request. They are extremely busy and I am not sure if this request if possible so I wouldn’t mention it to Kami. If I hear of anything I will post it so you can inform the team. Best wishes and safe climbing.
catching up. heather armstrong in SLC – you know, dooce.com – apparently she has white house connections. and she has a gazillion readers, but if you let her know your credentials maybe she’d respond? though i’m not sure how much actual cred she has with the white house – she was just invited to a summit on health care where barack and michelle spoke.
Please email the photo to me @ ShaunKing@Courageous.tv and I will pass it on to our White House connections.
Thanks,
Shaun