Saturday, January 17, 2009

And to Humiliation and Failure, add Embarassment

I cried at the gym today.

It's almost as bad as it sounds. As previously mentioned, I've been reading a book about the war in Iraq. I reached the section on Abu Ghraib today, and when I read about the atrocities committed there, I cried. I couldn't help it. I not only felt terrible for the Iraqi's involved, but for our own American soldiers who had been so terribly led that the acts they perpetrated were rationalized and accepted. It's a tragedy in every sense of the word.

As I left the gym, I thought about our crazy, sad world. And I admit, as I turned my book front cover out, I also thought, "Please, fellow gym-goers, notice that I am not reading 'Twilight.'"

5 comments:

Melanie said...

You would be completely fascinated and horrified with some of the stories my neighbor friends have told me. Not only about war in their countries, but these they suffered at the hands of Talliban.

Jeff and Rose said...

Are you still in Fiasco?? I haven't started it yet--I'm in the last chapter of Tipping Point. Looks like we better get the online book club rolling....

P.S. Twilight shouldn't be read at the gym anyway--should only be read late at night (a guilty pleasure). ha.ha.

A said...

You shouldn't be embarrased. In fact, you should be proud that you care so deeply about humanity you feel deeply about the atrocities that sometimes take place in this human world of ours. I don't know if I'm brave enough to read the book (I tend to have a weak stomach), but may be I can borrow it from you when you are done.

Melanie said...

P.S. What book are you reading?

P.S.S. I tried calling you a couple of times re: your beautiful home. I am so sorry. Talk about havoic on the whole OCD thing.

P.S.S.S Recommend Va-cay. Come to VA...free place to stay. Bring the girls.

Julie Church said...

I often wonder what sort was I that was deserving of such blessings in this life. I live a life of luxury, freedom and peace. I go where I want to and when (if my car battery isn't dead). My nephew in Africa on a mission for a few short 5 months has stories already of dispair, oppression, and grief. I don't blame you for crying.