The Loss of Aimee

Little did I know, that this country would challenge me to the core, while snatching up my affection at the same time. I have been having quite a "western" weekend by ordering CHINESE take-out, going to see Sherlock Holmes and wandering around a beautiful upscale mall of marble decor and fancy stores. Based on my weekend, one would never know I was living in Egypt. But once outside, the reality smacks you in the face of women begging in the cold, sitting on street corners with their bundled babies in their arms. Fully covered women, exposing only their eyes through tiny slits share my seat on the tram, and are gracious to help me with directions knowing very well my Arabic is limited. Tiny dirty children play in the streets, and sit atop garbage piles in an area of the city designated for those who don't choose to participate in the majority belief system. Friday morning call to prayer provides large groups of men bowing toward Mecca on sidewalks all over the city. Donkeys pulling wagons of garbage own the roads each morning. I can't seem to escape how much this place is in need. I can escape for a few moments, but its not like I am on vacation and will be kissing it goodbye. Reality is setting in that this is now HOME ...and yes, that makes me smile :)