I think Marlo Thomas wrote a book with this title, I remember the title but not the book. I don't think it was that good - sorry Marlo. Last night I spent a couple of hours with a woman that made me remember the title of that book and all the freedoms that I am allowed in my life.
Keti is a 50 something woman who grew up in Communist Georgia. She's probably about my age but her life has taken its toll on her mind and body. She related her experiences matter-of-factly and without self pity but as I listened to her I added her story to the many that I have seen and heard over the years and that helped me realize in a very real way what an incredible blessing it is to have been born in a country where people expect and enjoy the freedoms that we do.
In conversations with my family sometimes I am accused of being unpatriotic but I would venture to say that I am as patriotic as they come. I think experiences like these have helped me become more empathetic to the hardships and injustice that exists in so many parts of the world but it also reminds me daily of how fortunate I am for the privilege of being born in the country that I call home. I don't always agree with the decisions that the leaders of my country make but the realization that I can say that aloud without fear of repercussion is one that I hold dear.
I expect I will be spending a lot more time with Keti and I hope my heart can take it.
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4 comments:
I am so proud of you. I don't know what your connection to Keti is, but I know we will all be the better for it. Happy Mothers Day
I've met Keti. You're right. We have so many rights and freedoms that we take for granted. We are indeed blessed!
OK... Two books you need to read:
A Woman in Berlin
and
Persepolis
I suspect Tay will enjoy the latter, as well.
I would like to see a picture of Keti, and hear more of her story! I am forever reminding any-one that will listen...how fortunate we are to have so much freedom!!!
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