While the book I've been reading is falling apart from the heat of the sun . . . the words therein have given me much to ponder on. In Voices Behind the Veil, I've had a small peek into the life of millions of women around the world. The authors in this book portray a metaphoric message of the veil, not diminishing its commendable significance of modesty and desire to live a holy life but, sharing from personal experience and insight, the pain hidden behind this veiling.
Somehow, in emotionally immersing myself into this foreign culture, I cannot help but get a renewed glimpse of the culture we live in. As we were waiting to be called to our table at a restaurant, I could not help but notice a woman, also waiting, with four teen-aged girls. Their dolled up appearance and inappropriate dresses were shocking but what was has stayed with me is the sadness or hardness in their eyes. These girls had no veil or desire to hide their lack of joy even in, what looked like it should have been, a celebratory night out.
We have seen this lack of joy on our trip, as we have observed people around us. In both cultures women are dominated by what they feel is expected to win the approval of men. For one it's a fear of punishment for not being chaste, for another it's a fear of not looking hot enough. Both cultures are heart-breaking evidence of the enemy's work in seeking to destroy any semblance of true worth and beauty.
A passage in the Bible that has become more precious to me is found in Matthew 27:51, where it points out that while Jesus hung on the cross, the veil in the temple was torn in two. The veil that was there throughout history to protect people from the holiness of God, was rent by His sacrifice, making it possible for anyone to come to Him to receive forgiveness and peace. This is the message I want burned into my heart, a message of love for those who are in need of joy and peace.
Deep thoughts, I know, for being on vacation. I have started some lighter reading too.
After our morning time in the sun, we go inside and make a nice cold drink. I've enjoyed experimenting with making freshly squeezed lemonade and grapefruit drinks.
Our favorite is a pamplemousse drink. (I love that French word!) We take the juice of two grapefruit, at least a cup or more, add 1/4 cup sugar, 1 cup crushed ice and 3 cups club soda.
I'm sad to see the grapefruit are almost gone, but we still have a lot of lemons.
Oh... and the tangerines are all gone . . .
But I must say, the color has grown on me.
As he was taking the picture, he muttered something about being blinded!
Ha ...Ha ... maybe that is a good thing!
15 comments:
Anneliese - you are beautiful as are your insights and words. Soak up all that Vitamin C and D and enjoy!
So true Anneliese. I read "A Thousand Splendid Suns" about Aghani women. It was revealing and gave great prespective while humbling me with the realization of all I have to feel blessed about in this great country of Canada, in my home, and in my relationship with my husband.
By the way, I love your pants! Where did you find them?
Your rocking that new Spring color for sure :)
Love the insights you are having...
Thank you Anneliese. Thought provoking and true: there are many kinds of "veil".
Sharon
Great post! Ummm, I'm sure he meant blinded by your loveliness in a beautiful vacation setting!
You are looking awesome my friend...thanks for sharing your thoughts too....so very true!
I loved reading your thoughts about the women who live behind veils, both literally and metaphorically. How we all need the love of Christ to be truly free.
Your observations are astute and I'm glad you've shared them, and thereby opened a conversation. I work with many young women - clients and volunteers - and am often saddened by the lack of self-confidence and the need to portray themselves as sexual objects. When I explain dress code to my young volunteers I never hear protests or laughter or comments on it being 'old fashioned'. It's almost as though they are anxious for some sort of guidance and limit - as though no one has talked to them about it before.
You've got the bottoms and I've got the top...and you will once again love my new running shoes that outfit.
Great post...so real about the opposing views
A very thoughtful post. I am glad you are enjoying your rest. Working for a dermatologist, I have to say...be sure and use your sunscreen! ha! ha!
Thoughtful post and beautifully written.
Fun pants!
Miss you.
Pondside: I can assure you feminists are 'talking to them' about it constantly. They do it to appeal to males. It is males who make the decisions about what is attractive in women, women's dress, and women's composure. No matter the culture. Women who work against that oppressive dictate are called feminists.
Tangerine looks good on you! Thanks for sharing your thoughts...and your observations with us. Lots to ponder...for sure.
You make me want to read that book! And your drink sounds yummy. I don't know where you are but I like the sound of all that sun.
As a mother and grandmother of girls, I so appreciate that you shared the insights you gained from the book and observed around you. It is true of the society we live in, and the verse you shared fit perfectly.
The drinks sound so refreshing. Thanks for sharing how you made them. And, last but not least, you look good in tangerine.
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