It has been almost two days since the barbaric terrorist attacks took place in my beloved country and I do not feel any better. I cried at nearly every picture I saw of the doomed wedding. Today’s cover story of the Washington Post was about the wedding-turned-tragedy. The picture the Post chose to highlight on its front page was of the couple walking in their Zaffeh — the traditional celebration for the couple before they enter the main wedding hall. I kept looking at the picture this morning and wishing there was a way I could transform myself inside the photo. I want to clap along with the celebrants and tell them it is okay, go on with your festivity, we’ve taken care of the low-life homicide bomber that was about to ruin your big day. Don’t worry, it is all good. We are all here celebrating with you … Ah, if wishes were horses!
Being away from home at this time is probably amongst the hardest things I have ever been through. I’m so tempted to pack my bags right now and take the first flight to Amman. I want to wear my hatta and hit the streets of Amman, shouting at the top of my lungs with my fellow Jordanians: "Burn in hell Zarqawi!!"
I want to visit the family of Al-Alami and Al-Akhras and shed my tears along with their own. I want to tell them we are all here for you. Your wedding was our wedding and your sorrow is now, our sorrow. I want to tell them that we will never forget what happened, that we will bring those that did this to justice. I want to tell the bride, Nadia, that she is still our beautiful bride and that, we, are all standing at her side.
My only consolation has been the reaction of the admirable Jordanians that have taken to the streets showing the world both their anger at the slaughterer and their love for their nation. I’m so proud of the unity my people have shown. Jordanians from all walks of life — women, children, Muslims and Christians — were all united in one voice as they condemned the attacks.
My sister in Amman also told me how the majority of cars in Amman have now placed a Jordanian flag on board as a symbol of national solidarity. She also informed me of the special activities planned by churches in Amman, where candlelight vigils will be held in memory of those barbarically massacred Wednesday. This is Jordan ladies and gentleman. This is my country, where people of all backgrounds will gather to protect it from those that seek to destroy. We will never forget. We are not afraid. We will stick it to those trying to shake us. We will tell them: "Burn in hell!!" May God Bless Jordan and its beautiful people.
i like the 2nd pic 🙂 !
Hey Natasha, I know it must feel so terrible, to be so far away from home, at a time of national tragedy, after so many innocent victims have died, and so many others are at a loss what to think or do. May God be with you all.
Sorry to hear about the whole mess. Hopefully, a spirit of national unity will continue to erupt to counter this deed.
Thad,
Correction. Moustapha Akkad is an American. As is his daughter, who your friend writes about. He also died.
So, that’s at least two Americans dead.
I knew both Moustapha and Malek Akkad.
Tragic.
It seems in addition to four senior Palestinian officials killed, three Iraqi oil ministry officials were also killed.
These attacks seem well-coordinated.
Link here
Sorry here is the link
Here is a blog article from someone who lost a friend in the Amman attack. She was the lone American killed.
I am happy when I see the marchers, I just wish it could be the start of a movement in the Islam world to reject these people. Sadly, I dont think it will start a movement anymore than the bombings in Egypt, Saudi or elsewhere have.
It is time for us Muslims to stand and reject these people.
Beautifully said, Tash. I’m sorry you’re so far away, you remember how I went nuts in Doha when things exploded in Lebanon this year. But don’t worry, Jordan will get through this.
It is too sad, but it will be alright. Jordan will get through that strong.
Well said Teesh..
Sleep eludes me.. I slept a total of 4 hours in the past 48..
In my entire life – I have never missed Amman like I do now..
I want to be there, in the heart of things.. At home.. With my people..
Words fail me – my heart has writer’s block 🙁