Hamma karaat doroughaki, boro baba shinakhtamet... khub medoonam! -Valy
Love that song!
Anyways, had a conversation with my buddy from our Kandahar office. He's from the States and a great guy. He told me about his sons party:
N: its all good over here, getting prepared for the party tomorrow night
i think we gonna have like 20 females along with their 300 kids in our tiny house
Me: ahahahha is this party for ur son?
N: yeah, its for that lil fool.he is doing better now, started walking around the day before yesterday
Me: hahaha
N: pops gave me 700$ to cover some of the costs. isnt he great?
Me: i cant help but ask this, do they have concrete houses in kandahar or are they all mud houses?
N: you know what, im gonna have to bring you down here someday
Me:ahahahah sorry, but i'm just curious!!!
Nasim: kandahar use to be the capital of afghanistan back in the days
Me: yeah but still... even kabul has mud houses
N: and today, its the 3rd largest city in afghanistan, and growing daily
well kandahar has mud houses, but it also has lots and lots of concrete buildings and houses
Me:: thank u. u sound like a news reporter!!!so is ur house mud or concrete?
N: oh be quiet
Me: well?
N: its concrete
Thursday 29 November 2007
Wednesday 28 November 2007
Introducing- Shrinks and Afg Juvies
GOOD NEWS!! I'm a keen supporter of specialised treatment in juvenile offending. Having experience in that field, i have seen it's impact on juveniles. The first rehabilitation centre for juvenile offenders (aged 12-18) has been launched in Kabul. Compliments to Italy who funded $490 000US for its construction. I remember seeing a deserted rehabilitation centre in Kabul and wished for its refurbishment.
Further, I'm currently in the process of trying to obtain international assistance in mental health issues for Afghans who have been traumatised psychologically as a result of NATO assistance in Afghanistan. Children need extra special help in this regard as they are Afgs future. So far, i'm doing well. i have been told by European groups that they will dispatch a group of psychologists immediately into the country. if this works- i will feel so proud! Afghans really need this.
Yesterdays bombing: Hekmatyar has claimed responsibility!
Will type more later, i feel sick because i ate roadside chips again!
Further, I'm currently in the process of trying to obtain international assistance in mental health issues for Afghans who have been traumatised psychologically as a result of NATO assistance in Afghanistan. Children need extra special help in this regard as they are Afgs future. So far, i'm doing well. i have been told by European groups that they will dispatch a group of psychologists immediately into the country. if this works- i will feel so proud! Afghans really need this.
Yesterdays bombing: Hekmatyar has claimed responsibility!
Will type more later, i feel sick because i ate roadside chips again!
Tuesday 27 November 2007
Figuring Afghanistan- an obscurity!
A suicide bomb went off exactly 22 minutes ago in Wazir Akbar Khan, Street 14. I’m okay, shukor so is family. Breaking news: At least 2 civilians dead and counting.
Ya Allah, khayr! I’m waiting for information to flood the office.
Afghanistan- an obscure arithmetical equation.
Labor winning the elections in Australia + Republicans aren’t glamorous enough to win the 2008 US elections = Withdrawal of troops from Iraq (an indication of increase in militant insurgency).
Pakistans deteriorating situation due to an obsessed, overly panicked President who’s doing whatever it takes to remain president- but is being faced with a Bhutto-Sharif opposition.
UN reports signify an increased opium trade in Afghanistan; further, anti-government elements have contaminated 54 per cent of Afghanistan who will be present in the long run. It has been anticipated that Kabul will be managed by AGES by mid-2008. NATO has been urged to double it’s troops. No no no the US troops need to disperse into the remote areas where the anti government elements are regrouping, not in the towns as they are currently positioned.
This leaves Afghanistan standing on a bar of soap, will easily slip!
Security chief just declared an unconfirmed explosion in Karte Naw. All movement within Kabul has been restricted, so that means i'm locked down in my office. Joy!
Ya Allah, khayr! I’m waiting for information to flood the office.
Afghanistan- an obscure arithmetical equation.
Labor winning the elections in Australia + Republicans aren’t glamorous enough to win the 2008 US elections = Withdrawal of troops from Iraq (an indication of increase in militant insurgency).
Pakistans deteriorating situation due to an obsessed, overly panicked President who’s doing whatever it takes to remain president- but is being faced with a Bhutto-Sharif opposition.
UN reports signify an increased opium trade in Afghanistan; further, anti-government elements have contaminated 54 per cent of Afghanistan who will be present in the long run. It has been anticipated that Kabul will be managed by AGES by mid-2008. NATO has been urged to double it’s troops. No no no the US troops need to disperse into the remote areas where the anti government elements are regrouping, not in the towns as they are currently positioned.
This leaves Afghanistan standing on a bar of soap, will easily slip!
Security chief just declared an unconfirmed explosion in Karte Naw. All movement within Kabul has been restricted, so that means i'm locked down in my office. Joy!
Monday 26 November 2007
Sympathies and condolences
My cousins’ cousins mum passed away in New York. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’oon. My heart goes out to their family, especially to Rafi. I sent him a lousy but hearty email offering him my condolences. He’s like a little brother to me (even though he’s older than I).
Good memories while we were in Islamabad, his putt-putty car. I walked into a cd store, all I saw were a bunch of guys STARING, I gave them a dirty look and turned the other way to select cds. Rafi came and said ‘salaam’. He asked why I gave him a dirty look; I laughed and told him I didn’t see him (even though he was standing right in front of me).
I pray to God to grant u strength and patience to carry on during this time of grief. If there’s anything I can do, or if you feel like confiding in anyone… I’m here for u. Take care of yourself and be strong.
Good memories while we were in Islamabad, his putt-putty car. I walked into a cd store, all I saw were a bunch of guys STARING, I gave them a dirty look and turned the other way to select cds. Rafi came and said ‘salaam’. He asked why I gave him a dirty look; I laughed and told him I didn’t see him (even though he was standing right in front of me).
I pray to God to grant u strength and patience to carry on during this time of grief. If there’s anything I can do, or if you feel like confiding in anyone… I’m here for u. Take care of yourself and be strong.
An Afghan Wedding
Had lunch with M yesterday, good fun! We had a laugh session about Afghans here and abroad and at the same time we agreed that if we hear any international say it, we'd verbally bash 'em. We're afghans, it's okay for us.
A week or so ago, i went to a wedding. I cant be bothered regurgitating the events so i've 'stolen' this passage from Mina's blog (thanks, hun!) Needless to say, what she experienced, i did too!
Speaking of home, i made a mental list. I've become an insomniac since learning about my trip back home. Spending the whole night awake thinking about what presents to get and for whom. Who to visit, what to do. I know my first visit will be to Maccaz (McDonalds) and if any of my relatives wish to invite me, they can bring home take-away... fish and chips or Maccaz or Pizza. NO AFGHAN FOOD, PLEASE. K.A can make a note of this. ahaha.
SM, ur a darl for wanting to have a night and kicking ur poor man out of the house so we have an all-girls night. love ya!
I'm at work, my tummy hurts. I really need to go back to australia and get a thorough medical examination, i probably have a zillion cancers in my body that i don't know about. hahahaha.
Anyways, back to work...
A week or so ago, i went to a wedding. I cant be bothered regurgitating the events so i've 'stolen' this passage from Mina's blog (thanks, hun!) Needless to say, what she experienced, i did too!
Basically it was very close to weddings I saw in North America – a band, a sitting area for the bride and groom (he hangs out with the ladies), a dance floor, and lots of food. There were however, a few differences. First was how bright the women’s dresses were - orange, bright green, etc. In most Afghan weddings I’ve been to in Canada, there are only 2 or 3 ladies who make this fashion choice. Here it was the majority. Another thing about the outfits was that they changed them about 3 to 4 times. This was of course only the closely related family; but even included the baby and children. I was in the same outfit the whole night (I always chose Indian outfits because they are as comfortable as pajamas and well accepted by Afghans. Who wants to pull on their strap all night?) . Anyway, this meant that you could spot me at anytime. The family members however, looked different every 15 minutes, so when I was looking for people I knew to say bye; I couldn’t find them because they were wearing new outfits.
The next thing that I just loved – was how the food was delivered. There were plates of every kind of food set on your table, underneath which was a plastic table cloth. The food was very tasty and even fruits and desserts were on the table. When it came time to clean up – I started to hear what sounded like an earthquake. No, it wasn’t a rocket. It was the sound of the waiters RUNNING away from the tables with their trays. They pick up the plastic, which is now holding all of the plates, platters, glasses, etc and pile them on to one tray. Then they hold that tray up with one hand, and run so they don’t drop it. It’s something that was very hard to capture in a picture, but I tried.
Speaking of home, i made a mental list. I've become an insomniac since learning about my trip back home. Spending the whole night awake thinking about what presents to get and for whom. Who to visit, what to do. I know my first visit will be to Maccaz (McDonalds) and if any of my relatives wish to invite me, they can bring home take-away... fish and chips or Maccaz or Pizza. NO AFGHAN FOOD, PLEASE. K.A can make a note of this. ahaha.
SM, ur a darl for wanting to have a night and kicking ur poor man out of the house so we have an all-girls night. love ya!
I'm at work, my tummy hurts. I really need to go back to australia and get a thorough medical examination, i probably have a zillion cancers in my body that i don't know about. hahahaha.
Anyways, back to work...
Sunday 25 November 2007
A distorted Paghman picturesque
Rushed into work. Bumped into our Aussie security dude before anyone else. We, of course discussed the election results. Before even checking my hotmail inbox (which is my number one daily priority), I logged onto MSN and spoke to W about- THE ELECTIONS! I’m stunned at Labors win! I’ve always liked Kevin Rudd, even as shadow minister. He’s an excellent speaker. Always has sharp comebacks! But history has proven, Labor and economics aren’t a good match. Immigration policy wise- it’s good for all the FOBs waiting to gain entry into Austaralya!
As for weekend highlights.
I was in the kitchen about to start cooking when my phone rang, it was a relative, S calling. I answered with a smile, ‘hey S, whats up?’
‘Guess what?’ was all I heard from the other end in her out of breathe voice. I asked if she was okay and why she’s so huffed. ‘I heard a bomb go off and then fire shots, the whole house shook and windows shattered.’ She was in complete shock. Her husband left the house, he thought they had targeted his uncle again who is the Chief security officer for Paghman. She hung up and told me she’ll call me later on with the news. I told her not to worry and that the scary part is DURING the explosion, the aftermath (although tragic) won’t do further physical damage. I assured her everything will be alright.
I hung up and lifelessly carried myself into the lounge room, positioned myself on the floor, next to the couch. I sat in solitary silence and stared into nothingness out the window. Kids gathered there, I thought to myself, how can they be so cruel? Why? Why?
These words came to my head as I grieved silently in tears.
This morning on my way to work, I had the following conversation:
Driver: Do you remember when we once went to Paghman and stopped on the way to buy apples?
Me: Yes
Driver: He too was killed.
I shook my head! An apple seller on the side of the road, earning barely enough to support his household. Why? Why? Why the injust disposition on our nation?
6 people killed, mostly children. My heart goes out to the families. May God give them the strength and patience to carry on.
Also went to a takhjamee in the village. Very interesting observation. Forgive me if I don’t sound too descriptive but I’m still saddened by the Paghman attacks. We were supposed to visit grandads grave and then go for a picnic. So I pulled on a pair of jeans, a sweater and my runners.
On the way, our driver insisted we join him and his family at the ‘takhjamee’. My god, I was in jeans and they want us to go to a village takhjamee? Girls who wear pants are considered to be wearing men’s attire. Oh well, my parents agreed and so I didn’t defy.
We entered the mud house to be greeted by a swarm of women. Oh no, I thought, I hate the kissing formality ESPECIALLY when you have no idea who they are. So I just took a deep breath and braced myself. I had my baby sister in my arms, hoping that would create a barrier so they don’t bother kissing me.
But. I was wrong!
I smiled and winced as each woman grabbed me (either by my shoulder or the back of my head) pulled me to her and kissed my cheeks five times alternating between left and right. I’ll dodge the next one, I thought.
But. I was wrong!
Kiss left cheek, kiss right cheek, kiss left cheek, right again, then finally left again. Yay, I’m free, only to be faced by another.
*sigh* yet, I still love our culture and our people.
The entire ‘takhjamee’ process was the norm apart from the dressed up women who looked like the white chicks from the movie ‘White Chicks’. They wore brightly coloured dresses with glittery sequins. White tombaans peeked from under their dresses.
Their hair. Oh boy did I like this part. It was permed- noodle perms! They had a whole heap of curled fringe on their forehead and long poodle looking curls dangling from next to their temples all the way to their shoulders. It reminded me of my sheepskin Qaraqol coat.
My MSN convo with W (don't ask why i put these, i guess it's for my own reference).
As for weekend highlights.
I was in the kitchen about to start cooking when my phone rang, it was a relative, S calling. I answered with a smile, ‘hey S, whats up?’
‘Guess what?’ was all I heard from the other end in her out of breathe voice. I asked if she was okay and why she’s so huffed. ‘I heard a bomb go off and then fire shots, the whole house shook and windows shattered.’ She was in complete shock. Her husband left the house, he thought they had targeted his uncle again who is the Chief security officer for Paghman. She hung up and told me she’ll call me later on with the news. I told her not to worry and that the scary part is DURING the explosion, the aftermath (although tragic) won’t do further physical damage. I assured her everything will be alright.
I hung up and lifelessly carried myself into the lounge room, positioned myself on the floor, next to the couch. I sat in solitary silence and stared into nothingness out the window. Kids gathered there, I thought to myself, how can they be so cruel? Why? Why?
These words came to my head as I grieved silently in tears.
Plastic sandals in a heap. Were they discarded in a hurry, as the frightened feet ran away? Or were the sandals blown off, right after the children?
Dust and screaming in the tree-lined streets? Grown men hitting themselves in frustration, crying for their children?
Our children murdered. Again and again.
This morning on my way to work, I had the following conversation:
Driver: Do you remember when we once went to Paghman and stopped on the way to buy apples?
Me: Yes
Driver: He too was killed.
I shook my head! An apple seller on the side of the road, earning barely enough to support his household. Why? Why? Why the injust disposition on our nation?
6 people killed, mostly children. My heart goes out to the families. May God give them the strength and patience to carry on.
Also went to a takhjamee in the village. Very interesting observation. Forgive me if I don’t sound too descriptive but I’m still saddened by the Paghman attacks. We were supposed to visit grandads grave and then go for a picnic. So I pulled on a pair of jeans, a sweater and my runners.
On the way, our driver insisted we join him and his family at the ‘takhjamee’. My god, I was in jeans and they want us to go to a village takhjamee? Girls who wear pants are considered to be wearing men’s attire. Oh well, my parents agreed and so I didn’t defy.
We entered the mud house to be greeted by a swarm of women. Oh no, I thought, I hate the kissing formality ESPECIALLY when you have no idea who they are. So I just took a deep breath and braced myself. I had my baby sister in my arms, hoping that would create a barrier so they don’t bother kissing me.
But. I was wrong!
I smiled and winced as each woman grabbed me (either by my shoulder or the back of my head) pulled me to her and kissed my cheeks five times alternating between left and right. I’ll dodge the next one, I thought.
But. I was wrong!
Kiss left cheek, kiss right cheek, kiss left cheek, right again, then finally left again. Yay, I’m free, only to be faced by another.
*sigh* yet, I still love our culture and our people.
The entire ‘takhjamee’ process was the norm apart from the dressed up women who looked like the white chicks from the movie ‘White Chicks’. They wore brightly coloured dresses with glittery sequins. White tombaans peeked from under their dresses.
Their hair. Oh boy did I like this part. It was permed- noodle perms! They had a whole heap of curled fringe on their forehead and long poodle looking curls dangling from next to their temples all the way to their shoulders. It reminded me of my sheepskin Qaraqol coat.
My MSN convo with W (don't ask why i put these, i guess it's for my own reference).
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
salaam
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
how are u?
W Says:
Good
W says:
w/s
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
fill me in on the aussie elections
W says:
hah
W says:
John Howard lost
W says:
even his own seat i believe
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
i heard that bit, even the dodgy afg news said that, tell me REAL news.
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
damnnn.. by how much did labour win?
W says:
i think they may have a majority of 24 seats
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
that's good
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
i'm happy but australias economy is going down with Labour
W says:
yeah i believe that too
W says:
but apparently he is an ecconomic conservative so i guess we will just have to wait and see
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
i hope so! personally, i like kevin rudd! even when he was shadow minister, hes an excellent speaker
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
i'm reading the news right now.. COSTELLO ISN'T GOING TO BE LIBERAL LEADER????? Damn!
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
whose taking his place then? come onnnnnnnn, u slowy! i'm in afg and i have more Aussie elections news than you
W says:
who said he isnt?
W says:
obviously the caucas has to elect him
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
i'm READING THE NEWS!! something you should know!
W says:
i think its just a formality
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
noooo i'm talking about the liberals... why would the caucus elect a liberal leader?
W says:
shalgham jan.... the liberal caucus
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
there is no liberal caucus... only labour is called caucus. go back to school!
W says:
kee mega
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
but it's good now, states are all labour and so is federal!
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
go and google it! u'll find for urself!
W says:
no really,... increased chance of corruption i believe
W says:
not really
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
The Federal Parliamentary Australian Labor Party, commonly known as The Caucus
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
i googled it for you!!!
W says:
yeah
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
whats happening with our aussie troops? is Rudd going to bring em home
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
ufffffffff maam keera porsaan mekonom, kadoo! lol
W says:
Rudd ba ma zang zad emroz
W says:
and he said ... Wjan when do u want me to pull out the troops from Iraq
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
ahahahhahahhaha
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
qawarah!
W says:
i dont think he will be withdrawing any time soon
W says:
i think his position is that he will withdraw troops responsibly
Me My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
i reckon it was all done for show! he's not going to get the troops out, coz if he does then he won't have US backing. as much as labour SAYS they don't care about Bushy. They DO!
W says:
did u even vote ?
Me- My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
lol no
W says:
churra eqadar gaap khay mezani
W says:
chup
Me- My god, Ruddy boy won! says:
ahahhahahaha
Thursday 22 November 2007
I'm coming home!
I wanted to surprise you all, but i just cant- so i'll have to tell you.
I'm coming home end of the year, maybe earlier!
I'll be going to Sydney as well and Melbourne bakhayr to visit family- and of course, good old Perth.
I'm coming home end of the year, maybe earlier!
I'll be going to Sydney as well and Melbourne bakhayr to visit family- and of course, good old Perth.
Locals
Take this as a form of advice!
Soooooooooooooo true!
Advice #1 – don’t befriend locals. It is their pride and joy to become obsessed with you and everything you do so they have something to talk about. They’re like the fob afghans in north America but obviously worse. Anyway, obviously you get it already . Lol
Soooooooooooooo true!
Breaking barriers and making friends
Before i begin to say anything, i just want to thank you's all for listening to me pour my heart out over the past few days- phone calls, emails and SMS. For making me realise my worth and most importantly your advice. For opening my eyes and making me see reality.
I know, i know i'm supposed to be issuing the Panjshir chronicle and at the same time my sisters birthday parties, D's and T's.
Buttttt... the most unusual and unexpecting event took place. See, i was in australia keeping to date with current events in Afghanistan when a friend showed me a blog of an Afg-Canadian girl who moved to Kabul to work, Mina. It was a long while ago, i remember seeing her photoes and reading her blog. She was an insipiration!
We met!
Wanna know how? Well, a girl i know S.? was due to arrive to Kabul from the States for work a few weeks ago. She declined the offer and so she remained in the States. How did i meet the girl? well her father works here, runs some business. He was working on his laptop in a cafe when he saw me. He asked questions and explained to me that his daughter is coming down for work and he'd like us to maintain contact. i gladly exchanged email addresses with him. Soon enough, i heard from her but was disappointed that she's no longer coming. i was looking forward to making a new friend.
And so we spoke and got to know each other better and grew closer.
A while later, her brother arrived in Afghanistan for business with his wife. S.? gave me her sis in laws number and told me that she'll hook me up with a few decent girls in Kabul.
She called me first, it was great being able to talk to someone who i could relate to. She gave me Mina's number. At this stage, i had no idea who Mina was but when i spoke to S.?, she told me Mina was from Canada. Yeah, it was the blogger Mina.
So, she and I exchanged emails and got along pretty well. We discussed fashion in Kabul, the FOB guys at work and Salons. Just shallow girly stuff! Of course, i have my friends. But being with someone in Kabul who knows what it's like and we can laugh together about stuff. This is just the beginning i guess, the best is yet to come... bakhayr.
Everything is going well for me in Kabul, Shukor. I've always believed 'when God closes a door, he opens a window.' I have a good job, a challenging experience, meeting new and different people- all this in Afghanistan!
Shukor!
I know, i know i'm supposed to be issuing the Panjshir chronicle and at the same time my sisters birthday parties, D's and T's.
Buttttt... the most unusual and unexpecting event took place. See, i was in australia keeping to date with current events in Afghanistan when a friend showed me a blog of an Afg-Canadian girl who moved to Kabul to work, Mina. It was a long while ago, i remember seeing her photoes and reading her blog. She was an insipiration!
We met!
Wanna know how? Well, a girl i know S.? was due to arrive to Kabul from the States for work a few weeks ago. She declined the offer and so she remained in the States. How did i meet the girl? well her father works here, runs some business. He was working on his laptop in a cafe when he saw me. He asked questions and explained to me that his daughter is coming down for work and he'd like us to maintain contact. i gladly exchanged email addresses with him. Soon enough, i heard from her but was disappointed that she's no longer coming. i was looking forward to making a new friend.
And so we spoke and got to know each other better and grew closer.
A while later, her brother arrived in Afghanistan for business with his wife. S.? gave me her sis in laws number and told me that she'll hook me up with a few decent girls in Kabul.
She called me first, it was great being able to talk to someone who i could relate to. She gave me Mina's number. At this stage, i had no idea who Mina was but when i spoke to S.?, she told me Mina was from Canada. Yeah, it was the blogger Mina.
So, she and I exchanged emails and got along pretty well. We discussed fashion in Kabul, the FOB guys at work and Salons. Just shallow girly stuff! Of course, i have my friends. But being with someone in Kabul who knows what it's like and we can laugh together about stuff. This is just the beginning i guess, the best is yet to come... bakhayr.
Everything is going well for me in Kabul, Shukor. I've always believed 'when God closes a door, he opens a window.' I have a good job, a challenging experience, meeting new and different people- all this in Afghanistan!
Shukor!
Tuesday 20 November 2007
Utterly disgusted
i have posted the complete article previously, but came across it today as i was reading the news. A disgrace to Afghan people! Appalling!
So, what are the tackling measures positioned?
(Source: UNAMA Report, 19 November 2007)
Wallah, this is haraam! How can they claim to be Mujahideen? According to my extensive knowledge about jihad, fighting with guns is the final form of jihad. Jihad An-nafs is the most primary yet important option of Jihad- Fighting desires, being in control of one self.
A disgrace! A disgrace to Islam, a disgrace to Afghan culture and a humiliation to Afghan people. Most importantly, a disgrace to Mujahids who really fought with their intention purely for the cause of Islam and their country but are having their name washed in degradation. How can they call themselves mujahideen?????
But.
Don't believe everything you read. Media propaganda and exaggeration. Blowing issues out of porportion.
The practice, called "bacha bazi" -- literally "boy play" -- has a long history in northern Afghanistan, but sometimes it does not stop with just dancing.
"I very much enjoy hugging a boy. His smell and fragrance kills me," said Yawar.
The 38-year-old businessman said he recruited a 15-year-old boy three years ago to help him with his work.
"I have had him for at least three years, since he was only 15. He was looking for a job and I gave him somewhere to stay," said Yawar, showing the boy's picture.
"I don't have a wife. He is like my wife. I dress him in women's clothes and have him sleep beside me. I enjoy him and he is my everything," he said, kissing the photograph.
"Everyone tries to have the best, most handsome and good-looking boy," said a former mujahideen commander, who declined to be named.
Former mujahideen commanders hold such parties in and around Pul-e Khumri about once a week.
"I was married to a woman 20 years ago, she left me because of my boy," he said. "I was playing with my boy every night and was away from home, eventually my wife decided to leave me. I am happy with my decision, because I am used to sleeping and entertaining with my young boy."
"I was only 14-years-old when a former Uzbek commander forced me to have sex with him," said Shir Mohammad in Sar-e Pol province. "Later, I quit my family and became his secretary. I have been with him for 10 years, I am now grown up, but he still loves me and I sleep with him."
Asked what he would do when he got older, he said: "Once I grow up, I will be an owner and I will have my own boys."
So, what are the tackling measures positioned?
Islamic scholars recommended harsher punishment.
"Those who do this are the devil," said Mawlawi Mohammad Sadiq Sadiqyar, a scholar and prayer leader in the main northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif. "Under Islamic law, those who practice this should be stoned to death."
But some of the men say they are not interested in women.
"We know it is immoral and unIslamic, but how can we quit? We do not like women, we just want boys," said Chaman Gul, aged 35 of Takhar province.
(Source: UNAMA Report, 19 November 2007)
Wallah, this is haraam! How can they claim to be Mujahideen? According to my extensive knowledge about jihad, fighting with guns is the final form of jihad. Jihad An-nafs is the most primary yet important option of Jihad- Fighting desires, being in control of one self.
A disgrace! A disgrace to Islam, a disgrace to Afghan culture and a humiliation to Afghan people. Most importantly, a disgrace to Mujahids who really fought with their intention purely for the cause of Islam and their country but are having their name washed in degradation. How can they call themselves mujahideen?????
But.
Don't believe everything you read. Media propaganda and exaggeration. Blowing issues out of porportion.
Monday 19 November 2007
Apologies and my pride!
I know i'm late with my Panjsher entry. I have written notes but too lazy to type it up. i think i'll just scan it and post it then u guys can decipher what it says.
No, i'll be nice and type it. just give me time... (as if i haven't asked for enough already).
The temperature has dropped, the water puddles are all frozen in the morning.
Not feeling well today, throat feels funny.
Actually, i'm going to talk about something which just popped into my head. My pride! i know everyone is probably thinking 'oh god, she has too much of it'. i remember my friends telling me exasparatingly, most mistaking me as being a snob or damaqee. I've always held my head high, I have my reasons and i believe in its validity. People (who were very close to me) have tried breaking me... and they did! for a while i'd be upset, but it wasn't too long before i'd rise again stronger than before.
Most think i'm maghroor and i just smile. Yes, i'm maghroor.. only when it comes to guys (i won't delve into that subject). but once i let someone in, they see a sweet side. i know what people are thinking (oh my god, she has a sweet side???) i doooooooo... but it's hidden!
I'm grateful to God for making me the person that i am (i sound like i've just won a Grammy).
I believe every girl out there should define her pride, be confident and guard her reputation! Believe me, it's worth a million dollars!
S.M, you deserve much better. I've said this before and i'll say it again... A.N is a child, you need a REAL man! He was never marriage material and you can do better. This is why i reckon guys are immature until they hit 30!
S.M2, congrats on your Nikaah honey. I hope your marriage brings you eternal joy and happiness. I still can't believe you married a white boy, all through highschool you were a real tomboy, i would have thought you'll end up marrying a girl coz ur so masculine. But good on your man for converting to Islam.
ba omideh deedaar, khuda negahdaar
No, i'll be nice and type it. just give me time... (as if i haven't asked for enough already).
The temperature has dropped, the water puddles are all frozen in the morning.
Not feeling well today, throat feels funny.
Actually, i'm going to talk about something which just popped into my head. My pride! i know everyone is probably thinking 'oh god, she has too much of it'. i remember my friends telling me exasparatingly, most mistaking me as being a snob or damaqee. I've always held my head high, I have my reasons and i believe in its validity. People (who were very close to me) have tried breaking me... and they did! for a while i'd be upset, but it wasn't too long before i'd rise again stronger than before.
Most think i'm maghroor and i just smile. Yes, i'm maghroor.. only when it comes to guys (i won't delve into that subject). but once i let someone in, they see a sweet side. i know what people are thinking (oh my god, she has a sweet side???) i doooooooo... but it's hidden!
W says:
way tooo much pride
Me says:
i know, i'm just too good aren't i?
W says:
lol
W says:
i walk with elegance, win hearts with my decency etc etc
Me says:
aleh ba tu chi?zooret meta coz u can't walk with elegance? or ur not decent enough! lol.. that was ouch wasn't it?
I'm grateful to God for making me the person that i am (i sound like i've just won a Grammy).
I believe every girl out there should define her pride, be confident and guard her reputation! Believe me, it's worth a million dollars!
S.M, you deserve much better. I've said this before and i'll say it again... A.N is a child, you need a REAL man! He was never marriage material and you can do better. This is why i reckon guys are immature until they hit 30!
S.M2, congrats on your Nikaah honey. I hope your marriage brings you eternal joy and happiness. I still can't believe you married a white boy, all through highschool you were a real tomboy, i would have thought you'll end up marrying a girl coz ur so masculine. But good on your man for converting to Islam.
ba omideh deedaar, khuda negahdaar
Wednesday 14 November 2007
Visiting Masood- the national hero
The plaque just before Masoods grave!
Masoods final resting place. A hero, a defender, a fighter, a leader... a martyr. i couldn't believe how such an inevitable being could lie so helplessly. i cried. he didn't belong there. Before his death, he had dreamt he was going to die. he cried for his nation and his people. what will happen to them?
His memorial. Still undergoing construction...
This is how it will look like once completed.
One of Masoods men handed me this flower from his garden and told me that this flower will never grow old. It has a felt texture. i think he's right.
When the bombings would get too extreme, Masood would seek cover underground.
This is where Masood would sit and ponder. Bombs would drop but he wouldn't budge. That's what you call determination and bravery!
Masoods newly built family home for his 5 daughters and one son. just before moving in, he was martyred. His family visits annually and stay here.
Masoods garden. So serene and lovely. haven't seen any place like this in all of kabul!
Masoods guest house, long before he built the above house.
His house which he lived in. Had only 2 rooms and one bathroom. It was this that made me know that he was very dedicated to his people and didn't pocket peoples money for his own cause.
Masood lives on. One of the few pics i see him laughing.
Panjsher Valley.
I will provide a detailed post about the trip as soon as i get the time.
Ba omideh deedaar....
Wednesday 7 November 2007
ISAF commander in Ghazni embraces Islam
My face eyes widened and my face lightened when i read this article. Amazing!
Why kill people when you can invite them to embrace Islam? And if they dont, at least they have a better understanding of Islam and will allow a better stage of coexistence between the religions. If extremists sincerely believe that Islam is the right religion, then maybe they should preach it and invite people with it's beauty rather than killing in masses and spreading it by shedding blood. Islam is a religion of peace and many are drawn to it simply by letting it speak on its own without bloodshed.
ISAF commander in Ghazni embraces Islam
GHAZNI CITY, Nov 1
(Pajhwok Afghan News)
A commander of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) embraced Islam in the presence of 2000 people in the Andar district of the southern Ghazni province on Thursday.
Cap. Cormier Michel (45) commands 300 ISAF troops in the Taliban-infested district. The Ghazni governor, district chief, provincial council members, local officials, elders, ISAF soldiers and students attended a ceremony marking the commander's conversion to Islam.
The ceremony that lasted well over three hours conclude with slogans Allah-o-Akbar (Allah is Great). Cap. Michel, who changed his name to Abdul Wahed, started his brief speech with Bismillah (In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent and the most Merciful."
During the last five years, Abdul Wahed pointed out, he had been studying Islamic books and he concluded that Islam is the first religion. Stationed in Ghazni for last the last 10 months, he was impressed with the behaviour of his translator.
In a chat with Pajhwok Afghan News, the captain remarked: "Islam is a religion of peace and brotherhood, but terrorists and extremists are bringing a bad name to it." After the ceremony, Abdul Wahed said he had informed his wife in the US about his acceptance of Islam. "My spouse did not show any negative reaction, but recommended not to marry another woman."
Why kill people when you can invite them to embrace Islam? And if they dont, at least they have a better understanding of Islam and will allow a better stage of coexistence between the religions. If extremists sincerely believe that Islam is the right religion, then maybe they should preach it and invite people with it's beauty rather than killing in masses and spreading it by shedding blood. Islam is a religion of peace and many are drawn to it simply by letting it speak on its own without bloodshed.
Big bomb
Another suicide attack ripped in Pul Khumri killing 100 including MPs.
Please pray for their families.
Please pray for their families.
Tuesday 6 November 2007
More about me...
I got this from home in kabul who got it from I don’t know. I love these...
First
* First job: my dads service station when i was 12. ate chocolate and icecream all day.
* First screen name: 'all my pride is all i have' not much of a name, huh?
* First funeral: My cousin. He was 12 and i was 15
* First pet: it was my brothers. a budgerigar whom we named Parendah. Now we have a lovely but vicious dog, Tyson.
* First piercing: my ears.
* First tattoo: none, so trashy! sorry pplz, just had to say it.
* First credit card: my shopping ego tells me to get one but my brain tells me otherwise.
* First enemy: ouch! a bit too extreme! never had one, hate and enmity is a waste of energy.
Last
* Last car ride: on my way to work
* Last kiss: my cute baby sister.
* Last movie watched: wasn't a movie. my family and i were watching family videos and laughing at the good old times.
* Last beverage drank: Water
* Last food consumed: coco pops
* Last phone call: Roshan (mobile phone company) operator.. trying to fix my international sms so i can get in contact with my girls. I'm going to have to change my number.
* Last time showered: This morning, yay, hot water... until it went cold on me.
* Last CD played: 'Fall in love' DONT LAUGH! *blush* it has oldies songs, lionel richie, diana ross and micheal bolton. My sister S was like 'omg, i can't believe you bought that. its them cds we used to see being advertised on TV and laugh at.' oh well, first time for everything... hehe
* Last website visited: www.bbc.co.uk i like keeping up to date with ALL news.
Now
* Single or taken: neither... confused you huh?
* Gender: Female
* Birthday: 8 August
* Sign: Leo.. although it describes my characteristics perfectly, i'm still not convinced it's true. Doubt i ever will be.
* Siblings: 1 brother and 5 gorgeous sisters.
* Hair color: brunette with a few blonde highlights... u can't see em but u can. lol. i'm thinking of going dark brown.. sultry! but makes me look older :(
* Eye color: medium brown
* Shoe size: 7.5... hey i am tall okay!
* Height: Why are local afghans so short? i'm 170cm and i like my height :)
* Wearing: black knit top, white blazer and black pants and chadar.
* Drinking: Water...
* Thinking about: how much work i have and...
* Listening to: believe it or not, INDIAN! Colleagues are playing it, not that bad.
First
* First job: my dads service station when i was 12. ate chocolate and icecream all day.
* First screen name: 'all my pride is all i have' not much of a name, huh?
* First funeral: My cousin. He was 12 and i was 15
* First pet: it was my brothers. a budgerigar whom we named Parendah. Now we have a lovely but vicious dog, Tyson.
* First piercing: my ears.
* First tattoo: none, so trashy! sorry pplz, just had to say it.
* First credit card: my shopping ego tells me to get one but my brain tells me otherwise.
* First enemy: ouch! a bit too extreme! never had one, hate and enmity is a waste of energy.
Last
* Last car ride: on my way to work
* Last kiss: my cute baby sister.
* Last movie watched: wasn't a movie. my family and i were watching family videos and laughing at the good old times.
* Last beverage drank: Water
* Last food consumed: coco pops
* Last phone call: Roshan (mobile phone company) operator.. trying to fix my international sms so i can get in contact with my girls. I'm going to have to change my number.
* Last time showered: This morning, yay, hot water... until it went cold on me.
* Last CD played: 'Fall in love' DONT LAUGH! *blush* it has oldies songs, lionel richie, diana ross and micheal bolton. My sister S was like 'omg, i can't believe you bought that. its them cds we used to see being advertised on TV and laugh at.' oh well, first time for everything... hehe
* Last website visited: www.bbc.co.uk i like keeping up to date with ALL news.
Now
* Single or taken: neither... confused you huh?
* Gender: Female
* Birthday: 8 August
* Sign: Leo.. although it describes my characteristics perfectly, i'm still not convinced it's true. Doubt i ever will be.
* Siblings: 1 brother and 5 gorgeous sisters.
* Hair color: brunette with a few blonde highlights... u can't see em but u can. lol. i'm thinking of going dark brown.. sultry! but makes me look older :(
* Eye color: medium brown
* Shoe size: 7.5... hey i am tall okay!
* Height: Why are local afghans so short? i'm 170cm and i like my height :)
* Wearing: black knit top, white blazer and black pants and chadar.
* Drinking: Water...
* Thinking about: how much work i have and...
* Listening to: believe it or not, INDIAN! Colleagues are playing it, not that bad.
Mastering the Chadari
Wearing a Chadari it's so wrong. My forehead is where my eyes are supposed to be.
Better luck to me next time.
He's missing...
A colleague is missing. He was previously kidnapped and held ransom in Khost, his tribe had vouched for his release. I won't reveal where he's been held.
Now it's the second time he's missing. Please pray for his safe return.
Now it's the second time he's missing. Please pray for his safe return.
I have a dream...
I've always been big on symbolism. Looking at our flag, i interpreted the three colours- although separate- as merging together to create a nice colour scheme. Perhaps the three primary tribes (Hazara, Pashtun and Tajik) can learn something from the flags they all embrace.
A colleague of mine, somehow found out i was related to Sayyaf. He expressed sincere apprehension towards him saying that his land had been purchased off him 'by force'. I listened. Responding only with a nod and a concerned look. At first he verbally attacked me, to which i calmly responded 'beyadarjan, u can choose your friends but not your family. If he were a friend of mine, i would accept your biased criticism towards me.' This calmed him and he began with his story about how he has deep respect for Sayaf but what he did wasn't fair. I offered my help in any way that i could.
A colleague of mine, somehow found out i was related to Sayyaf. He expressed sincere apprehension towards him saying that his land had been purchased off him 'by force'. I listened. Responding only with a nod and a concerned look. At first he verbally attacked me, to which i calmly responded 'beyadarjan, u can choose your friends but not your family. If he were a friend of mine, i would accept your biased criticism towards me.' This calmed him and he began with his story about how he has deep respect for Sayaf but what he did wasn't fair. I offered my help in any way that i could.
Thursday 1 November 2007
Kabul crime busters
There are two people whom I just admire in Kabul. Crime buster Ali Shah Paktiawal and attorney general Abdul Jabbar Sabit (an old friend of dads).
Abdul Jabbar Sabit, the attorney general, stated: “The Afghan Army will not be able to defend the country for 10 years, so the international force has to be here for at least a decade.”
I admire his courage. he's so blunt and straight to the point. He's an Afghan returnee from Canada whose downright serious when it comes to serving justice.
Ali Shah Paktiawal is a hero when it comes to anti corruption and busting out criminals.
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