Syria Before the War represents my impressions of the open humanity of the people of Syria as they lived their ordinary lives right before the tragedy of war struck. Their generosity of spirit and delightful openness to this stranger with a camera moves me to this day, as I pray for their well-being. As is evident from the photos, most of the people I encountered were delighted to share something of themselves with me, to invite me to a tea, to make fun of their neighbor or friend, and to take a moment from their lives in order to enrich mine. This selection is only a fraction of the number of pearls they cast my way and I am eternally grateful.