I was nervous walking into the restaurant, knowing that I was about to meet with the most cultured scholars in the country. Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn ran in the door about ten minutes late hand in hand. I can see not only the love between the spouses but the respect as well. I stand up and firmly shake both of their hands- not knowing which partner "wears the pants" in the relationship.
Before I can even ask them a question about their book, Kristof and WuDunn thank me for showing interest in this monumental issue. They go on to explain that this is the largest humanitarian rift of our time and that I should be proud to want to make a difference. When asking Nicholas Kristof what made him hop on board with the novel (being a man and all) he responds by saying, "I would never forgive myself if I didn't join my wife in helping bring awareness." With a twinkle in her eye, WuDunn responded,"you don't have to be a woman to connect with this population, you just have to have a heart."
I must admit that I am very intimidated speaking with the couple- having both been Pulitzer Prize winners- but they are more than willing to talk to me. It seems as though they are trying to teach me. After hearing what feels like fifteen stories of different oppressed women, the waitress brings the check. I thank the couple again and twiddle my fingers debating my first step in making a contribution.
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