Freedom

Alan Johnston, freed today (AFP via bbc.co.uk)

Alan Johnston is free. 114 days in captivity - we can't imagine what it's like to be in that situation and not have any idea when and if you will be released. Think also for his parents - it's often "easier" to go through a difficult experience, compared to the futility felt by those outside the experience.

At the moment I'm reading the book by John McCarthy and Brian Keenan about their trip through South America (Between Extremes). Between the travelogue and the genuine warmth between the "odd couple", there are glimpses into their extended detention in the Lebanon - Keenan for more that 1500 days, McCarthy for almost 2000 days. There is a marked contrast between their experience of ultimate freedom - being able to trek through the mountains in Chile - and their experience of captivity. It was nice to hear that Alan Johnston heard McCarthy and also Terry Waite on BBC World Service, and took strength from their experience.