Last night, I gathered with dear women for a book club discussion. The selection was Kate McCord’s In the Land of Blue Burqas. McCord lived in Afghanistan for five years; she recounts her conversations and insights of this culture that stand in stark contrast to ours here in the States. Life for women in that country is narrow and slim in comparison, with few gaining education or career or travel or freedom. The women live cloaked, either behind compound walls or under a blue burqa.
As a woman and a U.S. citizen, my life here in the States is broad and wide, with more opportunities than I can possible take advantage of: education, career, family, friends, hobbies, sports, arts, community service, church life—whew! Life is made easier by our country’s advances and wealth, and I enjoy equality and a general sense of safety and respect.
As we discussed this book and how women live elsewhere, I was overwhelmed by all that has been afforded women in this country. We have freedom, voices, opportunity, choices. It is hard to imagine otherwise.
For women in Afghanistan, the comforts are few, life is hard. Again, I am challenged to think of the way I view my life. How much comfort does one girl need? I have more than I could ever use. Makes me want to share a bit somehow.
read all posts
I highly recommend In the Land of Blue Burqas. It opens a window into a life that is so different. It’s comfort detox by awareness. You can read more about the book in today’s post at True Woman by Carolyn McCulley. (And you can catch Kate McCord’s interview with Nancy Leigh DeMoss on Revive Our Hearts October 26–November 2.)
What books have you read that put your comfort needs into perspective? I’d love to add to my reading list, so please share!
