Afghanistan, Mariam & Laila

If you have been following this blog for long, you would know my obsession with Afghanistan and its people. Ever since I read A Thousand Splendid Suns which continues to be my most favorite book of all time, I have wanted to visit this country that has been traumatized again and again. You can find me rambling about the book and the country  here, here, here, here and here. I know it was/is an obsession. 

With the recent developments in Afghanistan combined with the heart wrenching pictures, I have just not stopped thinking about it. My heart goes out to its people. Especially women and children who are more vulnerable and innocent in all this. This country just does not get any breather. The moment things start to look up for them, a new invasion occurs. The take over by Taliban is however not like any other invasion. The set of rules they come up with are stifling just to hear, to be an actual witness to them is something most of us cannot even fathom. Herat, where at one point of time you could not even stretch a leg without hitting a poet is silent. Books, music, art are being burned. Kabul has lost its sheen. You will not spot women shopping or haggling with vendors. Even if you spot one, she will be accompanied by a man not her other women friends. Walking carefully so as not to trip in her burqa. Chapli kebabs stalls look empty. Fruits although fragrant just don't have the same sweetness.

Invariably I end up thinking about Mariam and Laila. How this news would have affected them? What would have been their reaction to this? I am sure Laila would be livid, angry at how they are closing up opportunities and schools for women. I won't be surprised if she still ventures out alone only to be sent back with lashes from the Taliban. Mariam would make her understand that no good can come out of her anger while applying ointment on her wounds. Aziza would join Mariam and both of them pray for better days. Laila's heart would be so full looking at them. Laila sees more and more of Mariam in Aziza every day. Zalmai is playing with the gun pretending to be Taliban. Laila scolds him and he goes running to Tariq. Tariq soothes him, they say the Babaloo prayer together and Zalmai goes to sleep.

Late in the night as Laila and Tariq lay together, they talk about Afghanistan and their future here. They can hear Mariam singing a lullaby to the children in the next room. Tariq suggests moving to Pakistan for some time, till things get better here. They could go to Muree again. Children would love the fresh air, goats, meadows and snow. Aziza could go to school again. But Laila wants none of it. "How can we betray our homeland like this". "Especially when it needs us the most". Laila wants to stay put, she says she will continue teaching both Aziza and Zalmai at home. They can definitely get books from the black market. there is always a way. They will find a way. Tariq is not so sure, but doesn't argue. He doesn't want to agitate her. Mariam's voice calms and soothes them. Aziza is saying something to Mariam in the next room which makes Mariam chuckle. Laila makes a note to ask what she said to Mariam tomorrow and falls asleep on Tariq's shoulder. 

None of them know what tomorrow might bring.

P.S - I know Mariam is no more, but I refuse to believe it. In my memory she lives on.

Love:

Sepo