So I have been trying to prepare myself, as much as one can, for this Afghanistan experience. Prior to the last several weeks, my knowledge of this area of the world was virtually nothing. This picture above was probably the only image in my head of Afghanistan. The photo draws you in and you want to know more. So being the proactive person I am... I have tried to do as much as I can to learn about Afghanistan.

Initially my interest in Afghanistan was piqued after reading Half the Sky by Nicholas Kristoff. The book was referenced to me after my time in Congo. His discussion of demarginalized women around the world was very enlightening to me. When I learned that the country with the worse fetal mortality rate in the work was Afghanistan, as well as the oppression women endured there; my eyes began to open.

I also read several books - both fiction and non about Afghanistan. Books like Thousand Splendid Suns and Three Cups of Tea were helpful at painting a picture of what Afghan women endure. I really struggled to get my head around the differences. Things like the agony of having a daughter for a child and the sentance of an arranged marriage to a man twice my age are absolutely foreign to my consciousness. I just cannot relate, but my heart is heavy for women who have experienced these situations.

Documentaries and movies have also given me visuals of the landscapes and cultural traditions. These have been both fascinating and revolting. A couple Frontline series about Afghanistan actually made me doubt of the decision I had made to go. A bit of perspective brought me back to reality when I thought about the deep dark secrets of every country and culture that noone talks about open. We have them here in the states and you all can think if a couple of examples I'm sure.

So now that I am arm with a bit of information - which is probably more dangerous that complete ignorance. But feel I am ready. I have my visa, passport and my "modest" wardrobe. One week from now I will be flying 14 hours to Dubai. Just hope I don't get a PE.