Munchkin #1 is off on a school trip to finish up his dive certification. I am so very proud of him! Because the teacher assumed that all of the kids had their own mobile phones (a totally frustrating bit for me) we finally had to buy him a mobile. Needless to say, he's thrilled. At least they are really cheap here.
Munchkin #2 this morning was discussing birthday party ideas for her next birthday (months away). She asked if she could invite girls AND boys. Sigh....she's growing up.
Ok. Now for the rest of the unload.......
I took the husband's parents who are visiting us down to the souqs the other day. Contrary to what you might believe, many of the men who work in the souqs selling you stuff are not from this country. They come from all over the region. Well, I went into one little shop to buy these fabric things that come from India that you stuff and use as footrests with a sofa or chair. After arriving at a price, I bought two. Once the business was done, it is time for the friendly chat. The salesman told us he was from Afghanistan. He came to our current country because it was no longer safe for him at home because of the big bad T (sorry, don't want to type the name and attract unwanted attention to my little blog). When the 'western' forces pull out of Afghanistan, I can't imagine what that country is going to be like. Whenever I fly in this region and wander the airports seeking a Starbucks, I am always struck by the number of men I see who are likely 'western' soldiers or 'western' hired help (so to speak). And, with all these people working against the big bad T, what will that country be like when all those 'western' soldiers and hired help leave? That country has had war for something like 35 years. Sad, sad, sad.
I eat, sleep and breathe these kinds of stories. They are part of the fabric of my daily life here. Yes, I live in a rather posh neighborhood. Yes, I drive a rather comfortable vehicle of choice (I actually have two). But...because of my volunteering and not being afraid to enjoy exploring this place, I see another side of life. I do my best to support the education of others. I love seeing kids learn maths! I love to see them light up from within with a sense of accomplishment!
As I watch the American political process heat up, I am struck by how much nastiness is already being said. I see people spreading fear and nastiness and 'non-love' about others.
If I was in the States, I'd be part of 'the left'. I would probably even be labeled 'Liberal'. Well, guess what? That's ok with me. I live for helping others. I am pro-women's rights; I am pro-children's rights. My heart also aches when I speak to people in this region who've had to flee their home countries escaping horrors. I believe that those of us who have more should help more those who have less. If that marks me as a 'liberal' should I ever reside in the States, then so be it.
Peace.
Postscript 12March: I am personally horrified at the recent news about Afghanistan. My sincere hope is that all are one day able to live in peace. No hidden political agenda. Just a hope for peace.
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Be peaceful and respectful.