Ron Ziegler's memoir
A life shaped by curiosity
Life and career prospects begin with a collection of more or less coherent thoughts. From an early age, Ron Ziegler dreamed of becoming a train conductor, a pilot, or a roving reporter. None of those paths led to anything.
His interest changed when he discovered a fascinating book on archaeological discoveries in Biblical lands. He chose to study archaeology and art history at Ghent University, continued his studies abroad at Ankara University, and participated in the first Belgian excavation campaign in Turkey at Pessinus.
That journey was interrupted by his compulsory one-year military service in Belgium. He eventually joined the diplomatic corps and spent four decades representing Belgium on five continents and in twelve countries, in environments ranging from peaceful circumstances to political tensions and war.
The stories related in the book are singular to each country but also universal. Readers from different countries and professional backgrounds may recognize their own experiences in similar situations elsewhere.
The book offers an intimate account of a life shaped by archaeology, diplomacy, international affairs, culture, political tension, conflict, unexpected encounters, and the people encountered along the way.