About Mattie
An Evening Stroll
Welcome to a condensed collection of musings, ramblings and other thoughts that proliferate in my wee mind as I travel the ancient land of Yemen. As the title of this blog demonstrates, the vast majority of my time will be spent in Sana’a, as I will be undertaking extensive language instruction here in the city. However, I do hope to explore the surrounding country as breaks and funds allow.
I chose to come to Yemen for a variety of reasons. Between the civil unrest, the ancient customs, the unique beauty of the land and people, and, at times, the stark reality of overwhelming poverty, this land represents the antithesis of what I have studied the last five years at the University of Lethbridge, in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. While I have blogged extensively before, never have I truly written about subjects that affect me at the most basic human level. I sincerely hope that this journey can become something more than just an experience for myself, and my fellow readers. But what that “something” is, will have to wait to be seen.
As for myself, I am a rather simple creature. Having had the pleasure to be raised by two wonderful parents, who took the considerable time and effort to ensure that we children grew up in an inclusive enviroment, I have since found great satisfaction in discovering the unknown. From self discovery to cultural exploration, each journey has enhanced my own worldview, while simultaneously affecting those I have come in contact with (for good or for ill remains to be seen). Regardless, my journeys led me to a wonderful post-secondary institution, the University of Lethbridge. During my tenure there, several outstanding professors rather forcefully encouraged me to engage with the world before continuing on with any further studies. Thus, with my aspirations and their encouragements resounding in my ears, I packed my bags.
This is the result. Enjoy.
Hello Matthew,
Please forgive the round-about way of contacting you.
I am a reporter with the Canadian Press (Canada’s primary national wire service), and I am writing with regard to your blog post on your experiences with Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab. In that posting, you elude to issues that the media is reluctant to address in its coverage of the thwarted attack, and presumably in more broad-based analysis as well. I’m writing to request a telephone interview where you could have a chance to discuss your experiences and perspectives. I am interested in hearing about your personal response to the Abdulmutallab affair, but also in getting your insight into Yemen and its culture. Yemeni customs are bound to come under increased scrutiny in the coming months, and a perspective such as yours would be invaluable for people who have not enjoyed the same exposure as you.
If you are willing to speak to me, please send me an email at the address I’ve provided. If you’re able to include a phone number, I’d be happy to call you back and spare you the long distance charges.
Many thanks and all the best.
feel free to email me at mattie.salmon@gmail.com