Freedom sometimes comes in confinement. |
Inspired by a program I heard on NPR. Please note - although I endorse a woman's right to wear a burqa, I in no way would ever want for anyone to wear one against their will. The wearing of a burqa is part of a few small sects within the Islamic world. As a Catholic, I support the rights of people everywhere to worship as they choose, and in terms that are right for them. Burqa The cloak I wear keeps me from the outside world, and lets me stay anonymous to the world around me. I am part of the background, rarely seen, often passed by. Many do not know that I am here, and others do not care. I draw comfort from my plight, once a burden, now a refuge. The more I blend in, the less I desire taking flight. In the world, yet closed off from it, part and parcel, foreign and domestic, a bridge ‘tween two conflicting worlds. Brick wall and open door, the paradox of our choice. Our freedom comes in solitude, escape from prying eyes. My silence has a sound, and that sound is freedom. Like a hermit on a hill, or a monk in his cell, I am apart. Freedom you ask? Yes, I say, for I can escape the need to impress. I have eschewed the trappings of modern day life. In my burqa, I find refuge from my fears and mistrust. It is my salvation, my prayer and sacrifice. As you say your Our Fathers and Hail Mary’s I live my devotion to our one true God. I am free to be me, apart from the crush of a modern world that does not understand. I am not forced to wear this. There are ways around it, but for me it is a shield, my protection from the storm. I do not expect you to understand. I do not expect anyone to. I only ask for the right to live the solitude of my choosing. |