I was on a mission assessing the quality of a girl's school and no kidding I met THE Muhamod Ali. As you may recognize him from his younger days of boxing, he's standing right next to me with a kid squeezing in the middle. In his retirement, he's now an elder from this village. Elders draw a lot of weight in their villages. There really isn't a government system at this level. It's more tribal, with elders making the executive decisions. They're the ones who usually meet with me to discuss issues or requests. Again, we're kicking it back to biblical times. Nothing changes quickly around here. Tribes are broken down into three possible. Afghans are either Tajik, Hazara, or Pashtu. Tajik tend to be more forward thinking and progressive. Hazara are not quite as forward thinking, but are friendly. And the Pashtu are the more traditional with the Taliban often stemming from them. This village I visited was Tajik, so the large crowd around me was fortunately friendly. There's your brief history lesson for the day, not saying I know a lot about any one tribe.
10 comments:
Drew, I'm throwing a dinner party next month and having everyone that's invited bring good stuff to send to you, and maybe Mr. Ali, too. Can you email me an address? Thanks, friend. I think of you often, hope all is well. XOXO
He probably would have given you a right hook but didn't want to hurt his hand on that hard head of yours...
Good history lesson. I'm trying to learn more about the Afghani people and am reading "Friend by Day, Enemy by Night" which takes place in the more traditional Pashtu region. It's fascinating how our western thought processes are so different from theirs. Maybe you could use a little cultural awareness training...? Take care.
Hi Drew Bear,
I enjoyed your history lesson. Very interesting stuff. Is Ali the very small little face behind the kid? I just wanted to be sure that wasn't your elf friend. Keep up the good work. Wishing you the best,
Love,
Mamma Bear
Hi Drew,
Thanks for the interesting information. It sounds like you're learning a lot over there. This post made me think of Three Cups of Tea, the book about the mountain climber who was helped by villagers and then went back to Afghanistan to build schools as a way to give back. I've only read about it, haven't actually read it all, but I plan to soon. You take care!
Love,
Mom
Well actually Drew, the phrase is "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee." Yes I know-the library people are a thorn in your side.
Im really enjoying your history and culture lessons, Drew. Seriously, your blog really helps us understand what the US is doing over there. Keep up the blog, your great sense of humor and stay safe.
Donna
Hi Drew,
My school's 'Gum for Ghazni Project' is still happening. So far we have lots of gum, pens and some toy cars. People are asking if the kids need notepads to write on. Can you let me know please? We will be sending the package in late March for you and your colleagues to distribute as you see fit. Please let us know what items are most coveted and we will do our best to send them. Thanks and LOVE YOU LOTS! Aunt Suzy
Hi Andrew,
Do the tribes often times invite you to lunch or dinner or does that depend on how much cash you hand out for the various projects? I agree that this is a pretty big crowd, but they always seem like they are used to having their pictures taken. Do you ever leave pictures with them or do you always carry the digital camera? Seems like it's about time we send another care package...any special requests? Love, Dad.
Sorry I had a mess up.ha. I hope you were able to snag an autograph. I'll try to comment more as you blog. This is awesome by the way!
Stay Safe,
Amy
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