Gino’s journey: Faith, resilience and adventure

Some people navigate life carefully, staying within the lines. Others, like Gino, take every opportunity to explore, adapt, and embrace the unknown.

In this episode of Deep Dive Dardachāt, Hala and Rami read Tony Feghali’s blog post about Gino—a woman who has boldly mastered the art of living. From hiking Lebanon’s rugged trails to surviving a life-altering diagnosis, Gino’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of truly experiencing life.

So, grab your coffee (or hiking boots), and let’s break it down.

Living life like a hiker

From the moment she enters the story, Gino’s energy is contagious. She’s a chameleon—constantly evolving and always open to new experiences. One day, she’s sporting jet-black hair; the next, it’s silver. And just like her ever-changing style, her spirit is just as adventurous.

The first thing she asks Tony? "Have you walked the Camino de Santiago?"

Not exactly the small talk you’d expect when meeting someone for the first time. But that’s Gino—diving straight into life’s big questions.

For her, hiking isn’t just about the trails—it’s a way of life. Her approach to the world reflects her patience in climbing, willingness to embrace the unknown, and resilience in moving forward.

Lesson #1: Push your boundaries

Gino doesn’t do things halfway. She moves, explores, and soaks in every sensation, whether the crunch of snow under her boots or the rush of wind at the mountain’s peak. Life isn’t meant to be watched from the sidelines—it’s meant to be fully, completely lived.

The call of Lebanon

You’d think Gino would have been content after nearly 30 years of building a comfortable life in South Africa—big house, security, stability. But something kept pulling her back to Lebanon.

Not for family. Not for obligations. Just an unexplainable connection to the land, the people, the energy of the place.

So, she found a way to balance both worlds—splitting her time between South Africa and Lebanon. This was a bold move, a complicated one, but a necessary one for Gino.

Lesson #2: Listen to your inner Calling

Sometimes, logic doesn’t have the answer. The heart does. Gino trusted her intuition, even when it didn’t make sense on paper.

A life-changing diagnosis

Then came the biggest challenge of all.

Multiple sclerosis.

And not just any form—a severe, aggressive case. Doctors gave her just six months to live. Imagine hearing that. Imagine being told time is running out.

But instead of giving up, she made a choice. She returned to Lebanon, to the place that had always called to her. And what happened next? A miracle.

She made an unbelievable recovery. She credits it all to St. Charbel.

Lesson #3: Strength comes in many forms

Sometimes, resilience isn’t just about pushing forward—it’s about faith, about surrendering to something bigger than yourself. Gino’s story proves that hope, belief, and the will to live can defy even the most impossible odds.

Sharing her story, inspiring others

Gino doesn’t keep these experiences to herself—she shares them. She visits schools, speaks on podcasts and TV, and reaches out to young people with raw, unfiltered honesty. There are no polished speeches or rehearsed lines—just real, human connection.

Her message?

• Make life worthwhile.

• Choose joy over bitterness.

• Forgive—not for others, but for yourself.

• Don’t take things personally.

• Live fully, love deeply, and never waste a moment.

Lesson #4: Your story can change lives

We all have struggles and experiences that shape us. It’s what we do with those experiences that matters.

Gino chooses to turn her challenges into a source of inspiration for others.

Building a haven of connection

Her dream? A small cottage in the Lebanese mountains where people can gather, connect, and share their journeys. A space for wisdom, warmth, and community.

It’s not just about having a place—it’s about creating something meaningful.

Lesson #5: Find your sanctuary

What space would you create to nurture your soul and connect with others? A home? A creative project? A movement?

Gino reminds us that fulfillment often comes from the spaces we create—not just for ourselves but also for those around us.

What will you take from Gino’s story?