I’ve made an acute observation.
There’s suddenly an explosion of young Islamic women employed throughout the city. Where before it was rare, now it’s viral, meaning that well.
The thing that’s so apparent, is how happy they all are.
I thought about this.
They smile when they see you. Ask how you are while doing anything to help, unlike their sisters from the barrio who’d rather stab you than be courteous.
Then it hit me like fresh air. Of course they’re happy. They’re free, to come and go, work…earn…and be part of the world.
Back home they weren’t even allowed out, unless given permission, and in some cases, taken out, like pets that require walking.
They can’t contribute nor express an opinion, and childbirth and rearing, also only to an extent, is their sole purpose on earth.
I thought about this too.
How we take our liberties for granted. The tiniest, like shopping, to being able to vote.
This morning when I went to the post office I purposely waited for the pretty paisley hijab working in the corner who, when I asked for a sheet of stamps, rather than grab the nearest roll, took out a looseleaf filled with choices, and we picked my Forever Stamps together, she smiling the whole time.
These girls, such shining examples, should take their smiles out on the road.
SB
