Looking through reappropriate’s blogroll, i came across Eddie Zheng’s blog and loved his quote of the week:

“A scholar who cherishes the love of comfort is not fit to be deemed a scholar.”

- Lao-Tzu

Its a good reminder not only for academics but also for those of us that aren’t in academia but are still working for positive social change.  If we are ever to create something new, we must always stay on our learning edge - where comfort is always a step away, but always a step backward.

Xiao Fei “Eddie” Zheng writes his blog from behind bars in Yuba County, California.  His crime?  He’s an Asian immigrant.  He’s awaiting his final deportation hearing, which is set for March 22nd.  He is being deported for a robbery he commited 20 years ago as a 16-year-old.  While in prison, Zheng taught himself english, earned his GED, and got a college degree.  He became very active in youth organizing and wants to continue that work outside of prison walls.

However, shortly after his release, having served 19 years of a seven-to-life sentence and being deemed no longer a threat to society, the INS decided it was time to get rid of him.  Eddie came to the US from China at the age of 12 with a green card.  He is now fighting for his right to stay and to help create a better future for young people.  Visit Stop the Deportation of Eddie Zheng and show your support by writing a letter and signing up for updates.  Its not asking much, people.