CURRENT MISSION

To boldly go where no couchsurfer has gone before

ABOUT ME

I'm an American who has lived in Belgium for many years. I've learned to appreciate this country despite its faults, and I'm one of the few people I know who is equally at ease with the local and the expat communities.

PHILOSOPHY

I believe tolerance is the greatest virtue, because it is the only one that, were it more widely adopted and practiced, would stop the mad cycle of violence that plagues humanity. I used to feel that altruism and trust were equally important, but sadly enough my life experience shows me that all too often these are abused by others. Although I still enjoy helping others and granting unreturned favors, I have become more cynical and more careful to protect my own interests.

Interests

Politics (active in Democrats Abroad), current events, collaborative/social/cultural applications of information technology, sports (distance running, cycling)

• running
• politics
• technology
• cycling
• sports

Music, Movies, and Books

My favorite movies are Casablanca and Blade Runner. The best one I've seen this year was Good Night and Good Luck. My taste in music is eclectic, but I especially enjoy blues and world music. Unfortunately I don't have time to read books, although I recently downloaded a few to my cell phone (I fear the constant scrolling will sprain my thumb).

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

visited Angkor Wat (June 1996)

Teach, Learn, Share

My knowledge is a mile wide and an inch deep! I have many interests but I guess I lack the patience and discipline to become an expert in any particular subject. However I'm very good at research and networking, and can usually refer people to the right sources.

Countries I’ve Visited

Cambodia, Croatia, Côte d'Ivoire, France, Greece, Morocco, Spain

Countries I’ve Lived In

Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, United States

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