American Bedu

I’d like to share with readers an interview I gave today with a Pakistani publication:

http://www.pakspectator.com/interview-with-blogger-carol-fleming/

Interview with Blogger Carol Fleming

By The Pakistani Spectator • Jun 29th, 2008 • Category: Interviews • (3,521 views) • No Responses

Would you please tell us something about you and your site?

I am a former American diplomat who had 20 years with the U.S. foreign service before meeting and ultimately marrying my Saudi husband. As a former foreign service officer I have had the opportunity to work and travel to more than 75 countries including living in Pakistan. I started my blog prior to my departure from the United States for Saudi Arabia. The initial intent of the blog was to keep my family and friends informed on my experiences and observations on daily life in the Kingdom. However on their encouragement I opened the site up to anyone who wishes to learn more about the Kingdom from the perspective who routinely crosses that bridge between East and West.

Do you feel that you continue to grow in your writing the longer you write? Why is that important to you?

Absolutely. The longer one writes I believe the greater confidence one will have in choosing the appropriate words so that a reader can feel, smell, sense, touch and emphasize with the details and images one wishes to share. That is important to me for several reasons starting with wishing to be able to accurately and appropriately convey my views through the written word and also to give readers a realistic view of life in Saudi Arabia through my blog.

I’m wondering what some of your memorable experiences are with blogging?

The experiences are many and range from the great feeling of accomplishment when I as a “non-techie” managed to set up a blog in the first place to watching my blog grow and blossom. I have been blessed with a cadre of regular readers who further enhance my blog through their stimulating comments and resulting dialogues. And in turn, my blog has led me to new friends, new experiences and opportunities. It is a feeling of pride and self-achievement when I learn that Reuters, Chicago Sun Tribune, Computer Shopper and other publications have chosen to reproduce some of my posts because these publications believe my words are important and worthwhile. Through my blog I have been interviewed by the Washington Times as well as having participated in some radio interviews and tv interviews informing viewers about life in Saudi Arabia and the impact blogging has had on opening up the Kingdom.

What do you do in order to keep up your communication with other bloggers?

I believe it is critical for me to respond promptly to those who comment on my blog, even if it simply to acknowledge the comment and let the reader know how much I appreciated that he or she took the time to make a comment. I also have a round of regular blogs which I find enriching and informative and in turn I will routinely make my own comments to these blogs. A successful blog is an interactive blog. A successful blogger will be cognizant of the theme of his or her blog and make every effort not to deviate from that theme. Additionally a responsible blogger will respond to the needs of his or her readers and keep the blog active. A responsible blogger is dependable. If the blogger says he or she will post daily, then do it. Do not build up any false promises or unkept promises for your readership.

What do you think is the most exciting or most innovative use of technology in politics right now?

I think using the technology to keep individuals informed within politics is exciting and important. I like how during U.S. presidential debates viewers can submit their queries via web videoconference giving a broader chance for voices and views to be heard as well as receiving the answers.

Do you think that these new technologies are effective in making people more responsive?

Absolutely!

What do you think sets Your site apart from others?

I believe my site is unique as I remain focused on Saudi Arabia. The primary objective of my blog is to provide observations, experiences and inform about the daily life, customs, cultures and traditions of life in the Kingdom which gives me so many topics on which I can continue writing upon. Maintaining this focus, responding to my readers queries and requests further make my site unique.

If you could choose one characteristic you have that brought you success in life, what would it be?

A positive outlook and attitude.

What was the happiest and gloomiest moment of your life?

The happiest moment of my life was the birth of my son who is finally going to make me a Grandmother in October! There is no greater and precious gift than life. The gloomiest moment is when one faces death of a loved one. And at present, I am facing a battle with cancer. While I did have initial “gloomy” thoughts and fears, I am now facing this battle head on and prepared to fight and win!

If you could pick a travel destination, anywhere in the world, with no worries about how it’s paid for – what would your top 3 choices be?

As one who has already seen much of the world that is a tough one. I’m torn between choosing where I have already been and have such special memories or new places and make new memories! So let me ponder here…

<!–[if !supportLists]–>1. <!–[endif]–>Greece – I have been to Greece several times and feel very comfortable and relaxed there.

<!–[if !supportLists]–>2. <!–[endif]–>Costa Rica – until I met and married my husband this was the country I had planned to retire to.

<!–[if !supportLists]–>3. <!–[endif]–>Spain – one of the few European countries I have not been to and have always wanted to see.

What is your favorite book and why?

I am an avid reader and member of two different book clubs. It’s always hard to select just one book but I guess I’d have to say Mark Twain’s classic “Tom Sawyer.”

What’s the first thing you notice about a person (whether you know them or not)?

How easily they smile.

Is there anyone from your past that once told you you couldn’t write?

Fortunately, no. Although there have been a number of individuals who have coached and mentored me on how to improve my writing.

How bloggers can benefit from blogs financially?

I’m not sure if I am best to respond to this question but I’ll give it a shot. I write my blog as a pleasure and with the intent of performing a public service. However I do know of bloggers that through their blog and subject matter have in turn received book offers which can certainly be financially lucrative. Other bloggers will accept advertising for a fee.

Is it true that who has a successful blog has an awful lot of time on their hands?

My mother always told me if you want to get something done, be sure and ask the busiest person! I believe that most successful bloggers are active and multi-tasking individuals who probably have a high level of energy. Taking myself for example, I work full time for a medical university as well as being a media consultant for Saudi television. I also have my own international consulting firm. And, I like to write. Therefore, I blog.

What role can bloggers of the world play to make this world more friendlier and less hostile?

Providing information from the views “of the street” and not specifically from a media source. At the same time, readers of blogs need to be careful to distinguish whether a blog has a bias or agenda.

Who are your top five favourite bloggers?

Because I primarily follow other blogs about Saudi Arabia my favorite bloggers are:

<!–[if !supportLists]–>1. <!–[endif]–>Crossroads Arabia

<!–[if !supportLists]–>2. <!–[endif]–>Saudi Jeans

<!–[if !supportLists]–>3. <!–[endif]–>Susie’s Big Adventure

<!–[if !supportLists]–>4. <!–[endif]–>Saudi Stepford Wife

<!–[if !supportLists]–>5. <!–[endif]–>Working in Saudi Arabia

Is there one observation or column or post that has gotten the most powerful reaction from people?

I have noticed with my blog that any post which references women’s issues; relationships with Saudi men; polygamy will receive many comments and powerful reactions.

What is your perception about Pakistan and its people?

Pakistan – where do I start with this magnificent country and its people! Pakistan is the land of so many hidden treasures. I can say hands down that in all my travels, I have yet to be welcomed so warmly, so genuinely and so quickly anywhere else like I was welcomed in Pakistan. I lived in Pakistan (Islamabad) from 1998 – 2001 and again from 2005 – 2006. I feel very much at home in Pakistan and have many Pakistan friends who I view as family. Pakistan has had its continued share of problems but it has always its blessings. Not enough people from outside the region get to know about Pakistan and its beauty which includes having more of the world’s highest peaks located there; the highest vertical drop; the world’s highest altitude golf course in Murree; the home of where polo started and so much more. I felt so devastated and helpless when Pakistan had its tragic October 2005 earthquake. I arrived in Pakistan two days after the earthquake representing a U.S. corporation and immediately engaged a team and traveled to Kashmir where we produced a documentary about the earthquake and needs of the people towards helping to generate international support. I’ve seen Pakistan just about in its entirety. I traveled by land from Islamabad to Urumqi, China as well as from Islamabad to New Delhi, India and so much else in between. Some of my favorite places in Pakistan are Hunza, Swat, Lahore and Uch Sharif. I have concerns now for Pakistan and regional stability given the reemergence of the Taliban, the safe haven Al Qaida and supporters have in the FATA and challenges for political and economic stability. However I know the Pakistani people are proud, strong and have been through so many challenges and wars throughout the years so I remain optimistic that peace and stability will be regained.

Have you ever become stunned by the uniqueness of any blogger?

Not really but in my view a blog and blogger needs to be unique in order to be successful.

What is the most striking difference between a developed country and a developing country?

Usually the infrastructure. Having an established infrastructure is always key to successful development.

What is the future of blogging?

I’m sure that innovations in technology will continue to impact the future of blogging making it easier and more accessible. Already blogs and bloggers have had their impact on the traditional print media.

You have also got a blogging life, how has it directly affected both your personal and professional life?

My blog has enriched both my professional and personal life. Those whom I can call friends continually multiples as a result of my blog. I never consider myself an expert on Saudi Arabia and write my post stating the words are my perspectives, opinions and personal experiences. However I routinely receive private emails from individuals who follow my blog who have asked for advise and guidance on differing aspects of the Kingdom and its culture.

What are your future plans?

To begin with to win my battle with cancer and then become a spokesperson towards helping to educate and inform women in the Kingdom on the need for proactive care and exams. Otherwise to basically continue as I am keeping a blog, working hard and have my work make a contribution which leaves me feeling satisfied.

Any Message you want to give to the readers of The Pakistani Spectator?

First I want to thank the Pakistani Spectator for giving me the opportunity to voice my views. Bahat Shukria! And in regards to a message to the readers, keep yourself informed. Knowledge is power. Furthermore, be all you can be. Think positive. Don’t be afraid or hesitant to think out of the box and try new approaches to solve traditional problems. Last but not least, live life to the fullest – it is one of our most precious gifts from God.

 

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