Hometown Baghdad: Letters from the viewers...

The Hometown Baghdad series keeps developing and Michael DiBenedetto continues to prove that he has got so much more than a cool sounding name. The last few episodes have been fantastic and mindblowing... showing what everyday life is in war time surprises people because all they are used to seeing is attack choppers, soldiers and politicians. But as this letter, that Michael forwarded to me, proves there is a truth to the Hometown project... A truth that only few people speak about. Luna is one.

Hey guys,

My name is Luna and I come from Bosnia and Herzegovina, city of Sarajevo.

I just saw all documentaries on www.hometownbagdhad.com, and I have to congratulate you! Thank you for showing the other side of the story. Thanks for having such a spirit.

Although one could expect that all usual things stop during the war, you've just showed the opposite.

During the 4 year long siege of my hometown, people had to continue their lives, claiming that otherwise they would go crazy. With no electricity, heating, water, food, cigarettes, possibility to leave Sarajevo…people made some pretty amazing things. Every citizen was obsessed to go to work although there was no paycheck at the end of the month. People had a need to go out and socialize (and due to no electricity situation) all theatre shows, exhibitions, concerts and other gatherings took place during the day.

There were some amazing parties….

In the time when death becomes such a strong part of life; human beings have no other option but to preserve their mental health - in one way or another.

I hope nobody will ever destroy your energy.

And as much as it sounds shallow and stereotypical, I want to tell you that I sincerely feel for you.

Luna