Middle East Shocks

The Middle East, specifically Afghanistan, has been a topic of conversation in American homes for years. The turmoil in this region, as well as the many events that tie the United States to this region, have made it such a pertinent topic. In class, we recently read A Thousand Splendid Suns. The story put into perspective just exactly what life is like in the Middle East. Today, the war and troubles facing this region are so far away, that modern American children simply cannot relate. Instead, we listen to one-sided news and make assumptions. A blanket statement perhaps, but most were shocked by the atmosphere presented in the novel. Some were shocked at how normal the characters seemed, others were shocked at how much violence occurs. I did not share these shocks.
I believe that I have been given an accurate representation of the Middle East at home. My parents spent three years there, and close family friends spent twelve years. I have grown up hearing stories of the wonders and horrors that occur in the Middle East. As I got older, my parents did not sugar coat the events in the Middle East. However, they did not exaggerate or dramatize these events. I grew up hearing stories of families, children, and individuals, just like me, trying to find their place in the world. I believe too many Americans are given only one view. Too many Americans believe that the Middle East is full of violence and heathens, while others are in denial about the atrocities being committed. The violence does exist, and that must be learned. Despite culture or religion, there are basic human rights that all countries should enforce. However, it should not be assumed that just because someone is Middle Eastern means that they are finatics. Just like any group of people, there are both good and bad people. I do not believe that it is fair that such a large population of the world should be catagorized under one general description. I believe that the media is partly to blame. Too often, the events in the Middle East are either ignored, or when reported on, are full of violence. I am not saying that the bad stories should not be told, but just as stories of hope and peace are reported about other regions of the war, so should there be stories of hope and peace for the Middle East. However, I also feel as if Americans should not be lazy in their education. We as a people should not just take the word of some journalist. If we hear a story, we should listen to other news stations, and when possible check the validity for ourselves.
For me, there should have been only one true shock from the novel. For me, the amount of hope and perseverance the Afghanistan people show is truly remarkable. I am not sure I would be able to survive a country full of so much turmoil and still have hope for the future. The characters in A Thousand Splendid Suns are truly remarkable. Even in my worst nightmares, these people are survivng more than even my imagination can supply. This story shows the remarkable strength of a remarkable people. From now on, I know I will have hope, because if these people can survive that, I can survive whatever I am facing.