The Healing Conscious New Poetic Work by Ethiopian Author Promotes Respect Among Cultures The Healing Conscious tells the story of an Ethiopian immigrant boy on his fascinating journey to America and adulthood. Author Kifle Bantayehu, a twenty-three-year-old second-generation Ethiopian immigrant, recounts this poignant tale in poetic format. His inspirational collection of poems reflects the final words and thoughts of a dying man who traveled across the world, raised a family and became successful - finally fulfilling the American dream. These poems, written in a uniquely modern style, reflect a journey of sacrifice, courage and strength. “The ideals of cultural preservation, respect and love intertwine with each person encountered along the narrator’s journey and serve as inspiration to all people, regardless of race, religion or sex,” states the introduction of the book. Bantayehu says there have been very few works of poetry written and published by Ethiopian authors. And he feels as though he’s breaking new ground for this genre of literature by combining the English language with Ethiopian culture. The Healing Conscious is available for pre-order at Borders and Barnes & Noble. It’s also available online at Amazon.com and books.lulu.com at discounted pricing. Fifteen percent of the net proceeds from book sales will be donated to the following organizations working to promote HIV awareness and helping those affected in Africa’s developing nations: • 46664 • Africare • The African AIDS Initiative • The Ethiopian Children's and Orphans’ Association (ECOA) • Youth AIDS/Africa Alive Bantayehu says he wrote the book - which is based on the lives of his parents - to tell the compelling story of an immigrant who, through much pain and sacrifice, was able to leave his homeland of Ethiopia with an equally strong and motivated woman and raise four children in the best possible environment for education, opportunity and happiness. ____________________________________ Many people, and the world community at large, don't take the time to understand a culture or society other than their own, Bantayehu says. ____________________________________ Although there are many wonderfully unique stories and novels depicting the lives of immigrants in America of backgrounds ranging from Italian, Irish, Chinese, and English, there has been little said of the sacrifices and contributions of the Ethiopian immigrant community residing in the United States,” Bantayehu said, explaining his motivation. “Not only do we, as Ethiopians, possess over 2,000 years of a rich cultural heritage, but we are a loving, caring and hardworking people from whom the values of family, sacrifice, respect and camaraderie can be learned." The Healing Conscious is meant to inspire immigrants and others to have faith in their dreams because anything is possible. It also seeks to stir cultural consciousness and sensitivity. Many people, and the world community at large, don't take the time to understand a culture or society other than their own, Bantayehu says. And stereotypes, misconceptions, and hatred arise from our lack of knowledge. "Whether Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim or any other ethnic or religious background, we all breathe the same air, feel fear, feel joy, shed tears, laugh, and love," he says. "Those innate qualities make us human" Given the fears and prejudices that have arisen from the September 11 tragedy, The Healing Conscious promotes important principles for the entire global community to embrace and practise. For more information about the book, please contact: Kifle Bantayehu, Author Email: kifle@globalcbp.com Website: www.thehealingconscious.com This website: Copyright © 2004 Dream World Media, LLC. / Urban Mozaik Magazine. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed in Urban Mozaik Magazine are not necessarily those of Urban Mozaik Magazine and the publisher cannot be held responsible for them. This website/publication, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.