I belong to a book club that is comprised of women whose husbands are also going through the masochistic pursuit of dental school. We got together the other night to discuss Khlad Hosseini's first book entitled The Kite Runner. Hosseini was born and raised in Afghanistan until he moved to the U.S. in the 1980's. His perspective on the culture and way of life of the Afghan people is stark and palpably real. As a citizen of the U.S., it is difficult to comprehend just how much suffering the people of Afghanistan face on a daily basis.
During our book club meeting we not only discussed the book, but many of us brought food that was either mentioned in the book or that is commonly eaten in Afghanistan (or at least we hope). I made homemade hummus and others made dal, naan, Afghan rice, an amazing chicken dish and more! The food was phenomenal. Discussion points that were revealed included the issue of guilt that was experienced by Amir, friendship and mental versus physical suffering. Someone noted that mental anguish can be acutely more painful than that of any physical ailment. I would say that I have to agree.
In conclusion, in our ever narrowing and globalizing world it is important for us to constantly learn about other cultures, religions, points of view, etc. I know that it is easy to become narrow minded and closed. But even though we may not be able to visit a place or see it with or own eyes this isn't an excuse. Increased technology has made it easier for us to listen to podcasts, view on-line journals, video clips, news clips and of course read. Always remember to Read! Read! Read!
During our book club meeting we not only discussed the book, but many of us brought food that was either mentioned in the book or that is commonly eaten in Afghanistan (or at least we hope). I made homemade hummus and others made dal, naan, Afghan rice, an amazing chicken dish and more! The food was phenomenal. Discussion points that were revealed included the issue of guilt that was experienced by Amir, friendship and mental versus physical suffering. Someone noted that mental anguish can be acutely more painful than that of any physical ailment. I would say that I have to agree.
In conclusion, in our ever narrowing and globalizing world it is important for us to constantly learn about other cultures, religions, points of view, etc. I know that it is easy to become narrow minded and closed. But even though we may not be able to visit a place or see it with or own eyes this isn't an excuse. Increased technology has made it easier for us to listen to podcasts, view on-line journals, video clips, news clips and of course read. Always remember to Read! Read! Read!
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