My education as an attorney and Special Forces Agent didn't prepare me to face the perils of deceit governments spread over their citizens, and all the threats to humanity inside every country I'd visit. I didn’t anticipate how I was going to cope with spontaneous, confrontational situations. I become a philanthropist instead of a victim. My weapons at first were guns and knives, but now they are smiles and hugs and a digital camera.

There is optimism, and optimism is a powerful weapon.