I was in Alexandria for two months this summer studying at Alexandria University and living with my professor from Georgetown, whom I have come to view much like a beloved Aunt. I did not sufficiently appreciate how beautiful and European Alexandria is until I had lived in Cairo for a while. There are lots of trees and gardens throughout the city, you're never far from the water, and everything is very laid back and easy. The biggest challenge of my summer was dealing with the harassment. My parents can attest to the fact that on more than one occassion I called them in tears explaining that I was not leaving the apartment again until I was forced to go to class. The women here are forced to cover up because it is obviously their fault that the men can't control themselves. I never show my shoulders, knees, or collar bones in public. I don't talk to men or look them in the eyes unless I already know them or have to purchase something from them. The women, old people, and children are wonderful though. I loved stopping to converse with one family who lived near my professor's apartment. They were so sweet and loving, I thoroughly enjoyed their company.
One striking thing is that they don't have to refrigerate unopened milk. The milk cartons are all sitting on a shelf in the grocery store, and you only have to refrigerate it once you open it. This is perfect for me as I don't have a refrigerator in my dorm room, so I buy half a dozen single serving milk boxes (about the size of a juice box) instead of a carton of milk. It has something to do with not pasteurizing the milk, but I still don't totally understand.
I'll write more soon, but I thought this would be a good start. Love to all!!
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I spent election day as an observer for the Democratic Party. From 5:30AM till 8:30PM I watched Dem. & Rep. judges do the business of democracy fairly and honestly. It was amazing to see men and women of all races and ages perform their civic duty (many for the first time) with a look of hope on their faces. My polling place went 70/30 for Obama but before learning that fact, it really wasn't the point. It was the process and more importantly the participants.
While making the hour long drive home, I learned from NPR that PA was blue. I knew at that moment that history was about to be made and I had lived long enough to see it. I pulled into my driveway and heard that my State of Ohio had been called for Obama which confirmed my prayers had been answered.
As I watched the TV for most of the night, the images were amazing. A speech from the 2000 version of McCain and then Obama where 40 years earlier when Chicago police beat and gassed protesters mere months after MLK and then RFK were assassinated. I remembered the night of the California primary waking up to Dad telling Mom, "they shot Bobby."
So many moments and memories that (as so many do) made me miss my Mom and wish she could have lived long enough to see them all.
Good thoughts and hopes for Obama, America and the world.
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