Taking It All For Granted

We are spoiled. Believe it or not it is true. We take so much for granted. How do I know that? Because I learned the hard truth is a very unique way.

Almost a decade ago, I met a woman and her daughter who were from Iran. They were seeking religious asylum here in America. The mother had begun to question her native religion, Islam, when her brother returned in a coffin from the Iran/Iraq war. How could Muslims justify killing Muslims? She couldn't accept that. Over the years she balked at many of the traditions imposed on her that seemed oppressive. She refused to carry through in an arranged marriage. Instead, she married for love. She questioned authority and began searching deeper into the Koran. As the answers were not coming forward she looked into other religions. That alone is reason enough to be executed. She found Christianity and felt that this was the right way to go. Despite what the country's leaders were saying, it gave hope. But conversion was a death sentence to her and her whole family.

She had to sell her entire life and run away with her teenage daughter while leaving her husband and son behind to come later.

It took 2 years before she would see them again.

How can I complain about my life? How can I say that I am oppressed or that rules are not fair? I cannot get arrested for just having my head uncovered or my sleeves above my wrist. I can walk into any church of any religion. I can question (preferably with respect) my government. I can protest. I have true freedom.

Puts my "problems" into perspective.