In an exclusive interview, Dr. Abraham M. George opens up about the deeply personal journey behind his memoir Mountains to Cross, a story that stretches from the icy battlefields of the Himalayas to the high-pressure world of Wall Street before ultimately leading him toward a life devoted to social change and service in India. More than a memoir about professional success, the book is a reflection on purpose, reinvention, and the quiet realization that achievement alone cannot guarantee fulfillment. Through candid memories, hard-earned lessons, and moments of profound self-discovery, Dr. George speaks about redefining success beyond wealth and status, choosing service over comfort, and understanding the transformative power of education in building a more equitable society. His story is both intimate and expansive: a reminder that true leadership is often measured not by what we accumulate, but by the lives we choose to uplift.1) What inspired you to write Mountains to Cross: Finding Life’s Purpose in Service at this stage of your life?My participation in social work has spanned the last thirty years, during which I have worked to alleviate poverty and help people from the lower strata of society. During these years, I have learned several things that I believe will be beneficial for others to know as well. Moreover, I intend to motivate financially stable individuals to lend their support to those who are struggling.2) Was there a particular chapter or moment in the book that was most difficult to write?The years 2007-2009 were very hard on our organization because of the global financial crisis. It took us more than three years to recover from our problems. Personally, it was a bit tough for me to recall some events from this era.3) You write about the connection between wealth and purpose—how can individuals bridge that gap in their own lives?I feel everyone possesses some goodness within them. They look for something that will give their lives meaning, beyond a luxurious lifestyle. People who have the opportunity to enjoy such a rich life are always able to lend a helping hand to those who need it. I have discussed the happiness and significance of my life through assisting those deprived of it.4) The book emphasizes social responsibility—do you think this is still undervalued in corporate culture?The social service provided by the corporate culture is based on its CSR initiatives. Corporations generally pursue their projects for capital and operational purposes via the help provided to NGO’s. Given their dependence on CSR initiatives, individuals may not come forward in adequate numbers.5) Why do you think this book is especially relevant in today’s fast-paced, success-driven world?It can be safely assumed that most individuals strive towards success to earn more money or accumulate more wealth. The hustle in their lives doesn’t allow them to contemplate the true meaning of their actions. In addition, they fail to recognize the pleasure of meaningful connections. Without providing any benefit to those who need their help, they are living only for selfish desires. The biography Mountains to Cross provides information about the life of Dr. George, who served in the army for the country, made money through his entrepreneurial ventures, and then abandoned all this glory to help the poor. The book highlights the social services he provided and how fulfilling they were for him. He became a model for others to live successful lives of their own.6) If readers take away just one idea from Mountains to Cross, what should it be?It is the responsibility of everyone who can to make others’ lives better. Being empathic or compassionate is not enough if such traits are not translated into helping people in need. Through this, the book encourages people to think about helping others.
