I thought I would read more about Afghanistan and get the details of the attack and the general mood in the country so I could more fully make my charmingly ironic point. And then I actually read about Afghanistan. I have been aware that things are not right there. I listen to the news occasionally, and I have read a paper or two. I suppose I had allowed myself ignorance about the extent and severity of the oppression of women in that country.

Burkas are, supposedly, no longer mandated by law, but a woman might find herself beaten for choosing not to wear one in public. Schools are now open to both boys and girls, but the acid attack last week wasn’t the first of its kind, and I am sad to say that I doubt it will be the last. Women are routinely gang-raped by militants and then beaten and/or shunned by their families for the shame they have brought to bear as victims of violent sexual crime.

After reading all of this, I was left without much inspiration to play up the irony. Instead, I feel a bit sick to my stomach, and thankful that my face sees the sunlight on a regular basis and that I can marry and divorce as I see fit and seek an education and work how and where I choose.

At the same time, I am inspired by the hope and fortitude of the women making their way in this dangerous environment. They still want to go to school. They dream of being doctors. They dream of better lives. I can only look to them with awe and admiration. So much for irony. For the moment I am compelled to earnestly marinate in thankfulness for the life I am able to lead and the joy I experience on a daily basis.

tidbit posted by Mosa  @ 11:57 PM