If we think of one word that represents the holiday season, it would be peace It is not just in the Christian Christmas cards illustrated with doves, containing messages of peace on earth, good will toward men. It can be seen in the serene glow of Hanukkah candles representing the miracle of light. Muslims are taught that those who tread gently upon the Earth say, 'Peace!'
At this time of year, my thoughts travel across the world to the Afghans who have taught me so much about hospitality and generosity. These friends have not seen peace for more than three decades. Yet despite relentless war, they demonstrate an unremitting attitude of good will that calls me back to their country time and again.
We in the Capital Region often view our lives as chaotic. We see them as anything but peaceful when disaster strikes in nature, in our homes, in the street or on the highway. Yet in relation to Afghans and others throughout the world not only facing war but also lacking food, shelter and health care, our concerns shrink until they become infinitesimal.
The Women Against War Afghan Project has been working for 10 years to influence our government to find a peaceful solution to the war in Afghanistan. In solidarity with the Afghan Peace Volunteers, we will participate in a fast today, International Human Rights Day, for a cease-fire and peace in Afghanistan.
As I forego my meals today, I will envision two burqa-clad women feeding a flock of doves at the shrine of Hazrat Ali in Mazar-e-Sharif. It is believed that if a gray or brown pigeon comes to this flock, within 40 days it will become a white dove of peace. Afghans believe those who feed the doves will receive good fortune.
As I fast, I will hope that these two women are able to fly through their day to the market with no fear of an explosion along the way.
I will think of the mother with a malnourished daughter in the mountains of Badakhshan Province whose milk had dried up from a lack of proper diet. This could be prevented if there were a clinic or midwife in the area.
I will think of the man I saw sharing his nan and green tea. This bread and beverage were his sustenance for the day, yet he was willing to share it with a friend who had nothing.
As we New Yorkers put a down comforter on our beds or turn up the thermostat a degree or two, Afghans will endure a brutal winter with subzero temperatures. Around the capital of Kabul, 20,000 to 30,000 people live in refugee camps. They fled their villages because of the war. They have no heat or electricity. If they are lucky they have a canvas tent and a few rugs for the ground. There is no FEMA, no Gore-Tex clothing to keep them warm and dry. Last winter, more than 20 children froze to death in the tents of these camps.
Since 2003, I have traveled to Afghanistan five times. I have raised funds for the ChildLight Foundation that supports projects for women who are in prisons, the National Organization of Ophthalmic Rehabilitation for eye care and for a well for drinking water and irrigation, a school and women's cooperative for Mir Taqui Shah.
I have documented and experienced the people's way of life, and my preparations for the holidays at home have taken on a new significance. The words of our Christmas carols — so many of which speak of peace — remind me of how grateful I am for my friends and family, and our safety.
We give to those in need. The Afghans are on the top of our list. We hope that our donation to the teachers' salaries in the village of Mir Taqui Shah near Kabul will give the students a greater opportunity to experience peace in their lifetime.
Please consider joining Women Against War as we fast between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Friends Meeting House in Albany.
Connie Frisbee Houde is a photojournalist and humanitarian.