neurotic Iraqi wife
August 06, 2007
Bitter Sweet Memories
Alot of developments happened during the past week. Some are good, some are sad, and some are just plain funny. Therefore Im gonna have them in the three sections, so Im warning you, this is gonna be a rather long post. My Advice, read it over three days ;-)
A BITTER SWEET MEMORY (1)
Its Tuesday morning, and Im not that busy. Checking emails, chatting to my coworkers when my phone rings. I pick it up and its Z, the HR guy, asking me to go over to his area. I do just that, and as Im standing next to him, I see a veiled woman sitting with her back towards me. As she turned her face around, I froze. Literally froze. Wowwwwww, I havent seen her for almost 18 months now. And for that split second, that split second that our eyes met, a roll of film started playing in my mind. A roll of film that I have stored away to never be opened again.
H, H was someone who worked very closely with HUBBY. A man in his late fifties with a typical Basrah accent. HUBBY used to spend alot of time with him, not only because of work, but because H was indeed a very interesting personality. He would tell us stories about traditions we never knew about. Things that occur within the tribal world of Iraq. Demeanours, mannerisms, and how everything has rules. If a fight takes place between tribes, there are certain rules and regulations for revenge or unity. Infact they have their own rules for anything and everything you can think of. HUBBY would be all ears when H spoke.
It was late July, July 05, on a hot summers night, when we received a phonecall. It was his son, asking the whereabouts of his father. HUBBY was confused, and told him that for some reason, he didnt show up at work and so we presumed he was at the site. His son went quiet on the phone, it was 930pm, and no one stayed that late out of the house, especially in the current circumstances. HUBBY calmed him down and told him that he will try to make some phonecalls and find out if H was at the site that day. After HUBBY hung up with H's son, he turned to me and said, You know Neurotica, I have a bad feeling. I fear that H has been kidnapped. He had previously received threats from certain contractors, but never took them seriously. After a few phonecalls, we realised that H was never seen by anyone that day.
The next day, his car was found abandoned, a few miles away from his neighbourhood, and his family received that fateful phonecall from his kidnappers. It was official, H had been kidnapped. My god, that day, that day were HUBBYs fears turned out true was probably the worst day I have ever experienced here. I remember how I just collapsed at work and cried for hours. I couldnt stop. I also remember how HUBBY contacted a few of H's friends that knew of someone that knew someone, that knew someone, who knew the huge kidnapping cells. There are 2 main ones, the Sadr one, and Al Dhari. They asked them to check if any of their people had H. Negative replies came from both. But the kidnappers continued their psycological war with H's family. They kept calling, kept demanding money, kept threatening and painting horrific pictures of what might H's fate be if the ransom wasnt paid. It really was a nightmare. The ransom was paid, but there was no H. No H found anywhere. Not even in the morgues that were frequented on a daily basis to check if his body was somewhere out there. H disappeared, disappeared from the face of the earth.
And my roll of film came to an end. My tears welled up as H's wife hugged me. She hugged me tight and asked me how I was doing and how HUBBY is. I smiled lightly and told her that all is fine with us, and asked her about her news. Not once did I mention H to her. I didnt want to know, I guess, I didnt want to believe that the man from Basrah, that funny man full of life, has been murdered. Then we stood in silence, for a few seconds, I asked whether she needed anything, she shook her head, and with that I kissed her goodbye, and returned the roll of film back to where it belonged. To my own oblivious cells, for it never will be rolled again. One thing I have to mention tho, the VP of the US company H worked for, vowed to continue paying H's salary to his wife, indefinitely. A move that I thought was amazing and very thoughtful. As for me, H's face, his wife's face will remain a memory. A bitter sweet memory....
A BITTER SWEET MEMORY (2)
Monday morning and just before a brief I have to attend, I hear claps, whistles, and screams. Then H (the reuters of our office) comes to my area and tells everyone that K got his interview. He received his interview date. A few minutes later, D got it, then H, then O. Everyone started running to their desks, checking for that lifechanging email. That long due email. Over the last week 90% of my Iraqi coworkers, got their interview dates for the special visa immigration at the American Embassy in Amman. It was a joy felt everywhere. That Monday, was the day after Iraq won the Asia cup. And when I said, God was finally smiling at us, I believe he truely was smiling. For all my coworkers dreamt to get that opportunity. The opportunity of tasting freedom. The opportunity of tasting Life. The real Life. I guess Crockers words did make a difference. And its time for the US to take responsibilty of all those who truely helped them and risked their lives on a daily basis. It may not be enough, but it is a start.
Everyday since that Monday, we hear the same whistles and claps. Its now S, A, E, H, Z and Z. Then A and R and many others in the other companies. They all huddle up together, making plans. Plans of where they will meet back in the US. How will they meet. They ask me about cash and how much they can take with them. They ask about expenditures and airport procedures. You can see the colour has come back to their pale grief stricken faces. Wow, the difference in their attitudes, the difference in their words is amazing. Within a day and a night, their whole outlook on life changed. Those slumped shoulders, and sad eyes, are no where to be found anymore. When I ask them whether they will be coming back if their visas take longer than usual, the majority opted out for staying in Jordan waiting for it. Even if it takes 3 or 4 months S said, I will never come back to this place again, NEVER.
There are ofcourse a few who still havent gotten their interview dates yet. Those I feel terribly bad for. They look at their coollegues and wander why not me. Why didnt I get it yet. They look at their collegues with envy, yet mixed with happiness. As for me, I cried when some began to say their goodbyes. My tears welled in my eyes, even with people I didnt really get along with. FOr I realised, I will terribly miss them. They were my driving force. They were the reason I was here. They were the ones who taught me how to be strong and never give up. They showed me what true heroism is, and what it really means. It was them, who changed me. They changed me and made me into a better person. They may have learnt technical skills from me, but what they gave me, was far more valuable than any technical solution. They gave a meaning to my life. My life that 2 years ago was pointless, pointless and empty...
So now, they will travel a different journey. A journey filled with hope. A journey filled with dreams. A journey that will teach them the yearning that we Iraqis who left this place more than 25 years ago felt. With all the suffering and all the hardship they endured here, they will most definitely reminisce together and remember the "good" old days. But for now, for just a short while, this place, this place for them is going to be just a memory. A Bitter Sweet Memory...
And Finally...
A BETTER SWEET MEMORY (3)
Show me your cute toes he said. Huh? I typed. Show me your toes he repeated. I laughed. I laughed with all my heart. For it wasnt too long ago (3 years), that HUBBY used to tell me these same words. Its like deja vu all over again. I connected my webcam, and instead of pleasing HUBBY's weird fettish of toes, I scared him to death by sticking the lens to my crooked teeth. I cracked up laughing. I guess its gonna take a miracle, a real miracle for us to have a normal married life. Right now he is based somewhere other than Baghdad. A place that gets hit by 20-30 mortars daily. Although I worry about him all the time, but as long as I see him online, I know he is ok. Ever since he moved there a few months back, I dont get to see him, I dont get to see him at all. The only time I did was just a week when I went on my vacation, and even that wasnt enough. I wanted him and needed him more this time than any other time I can remember. I missed him. I truely did.
The skype, the yahoo messenger, the cam, the phonecalls, are our only way of communicating. Our only way of checking on each other and listening to each other's woes. Show me your cute toes, took me aback. Wowwwww, was it really that long ago when we used to flirt with each other??? Was it that long ago when we'd play and have fun??? It seems that this place sucked all the life from us, all the fun loving stuff we used to have. I almost forgot how it felt like to be loved and teased by HUBBY. Do you love me he asks. I go quiet, for HUBBY rarely asks me this. Can I sleep on it I answer and tell you tomorrow? He types the B word, and I do my Loooooooooooool. ATleast for those precious moments, he doesnt talk about his work, nor complain about his bosses. For those precious moments, I have him , I have him all for myself. I may not see him, I may not be able to touch him. But I feel him. I feel him with me, with me in my heart. But the toes fettish, that, that definitely will remain, will remain a memory. A Bitter Sweet Memory...
And with that I conclude, My Bitter Sweet Memories
A BITTER SWEET MEMORY (1)
Its Tuesday morning, and Im not that busy. Checking emails, chatting to my coworkers when my phone rings. I pick it up and its Z, the HR guy, asking me to go over to his area. I do just that, and as Im standing next to him, I see a veiled woman sitting with her back towards me. As she turned her face around, I froze. Literally froze. Wowwwwww, I havent seen her for almost 18 months now. And for that split second, that split second that our eyes met, a roll of film started playing in my mind. A roll of film that I have stored away to never be opened again.
H, H was someone who worked very closely with HUBBY. A man in his late fifties with a typical Basrah accent. HUBBY used to spend alot of time with him, not only because of work, but because H was indeed a very interesting personality. He would tell us stories about traditions we never knew about. Things that occur within the tribal world of Iraq. Demeanours, mannerisms, and how everything has rules. If a fight takes place between tribes, there are certain rules and regulations for revenge or unity. Infact they have their own rules for anything and everything you can think of. HUBBY would be all ears when H spoke.
It was late July, July 05, on a hot summers night, when we received a phonecall. It was his son, asking the whereabouts of his father. HUBBY was confused, and told him that for some reason, he didnt show up at work and so we presumed he was at the site. His son went quiet on the phone, it was 930pm, and no one stayed that late out of the house, especially in the current circumstances. HUBBY calmed him down and told him that he will try to make some phonecalls and find out if H was at the site that day. After HUBBY hung up with H's son, he turned to me and said, You know Neurotica, I have a bad feeling. I fear that H has been kidnapped. He had previously received threats from certain contractors, but never took them seriously. After a few phonecalls, we realised that H was never seen by anyone that day.
The next day, his car was found abandoned, a few miles away from his neighbourhood, and his family received that fateful phonecall from his kidnappers. It was official, H had been kidnapped. My god, that day, that day were HUBBYs fears turned out true was probably the worst day I have ever experienced here. I remember how I just collapsed at work and cried for hours. I couldnt stop. I also remember how HUBBY contacted a few of H's friends that knew of someone that knew someone, that knew someone, who knew the huge kidnapping cells. There are 2 main ones, the Sadr one, and Al Dhari. They asked them to check if any of their people had H. Negative replies came from both. But the kidnappers continued their psycological war with H's family. They kept calling, kept demanding money, kept threatening and painting horrific pictures of what might H's fate be if the ransom wasnt paid. It really was a nightmare. The ransom was paid, but there was no H. No H found anywhere. Not even in the morgues that were frequented on a daily basis to check if his body was somewhere out there. H disappeared, disappeared from the face of the earth.
And my roll of film came to an end. My tears welled up as H's wife hugged me. She hugged me tight and asked me how I was doing and how HUBBY is. I smiled lightly and told her that all is fine with us, and asked her about her news. Not once did I mention H to her. I didnt want to know, I guess, I didnt want to believe that the man from Basrah, that funny man full of life, has been murdered. Then we stood in silence, for a few seconds, I asked whether she needed anything, she shook her head, and with that I kissed her goodbye, and returned the roll of film back to where it belonged. To my own oblivious cells, for it never will be rolled again. One thing I have to mention tho, the VP of the US company H worked for, vowed to continue paying H's salary to his wife, indefinitely. A move that I thought was amazing and very thoughtful. As for me, H's face, his wife's face will remain a memory. A bitter sweet memory....
A BITTER SWEET MEMORY (2)
Monday morning and just before a brief I have to attend, I hear claps, whistles, and screams. Then H (the reuters of our office) comes to my area and tells everyone that K got his interview. He received his interview date. A few minutes later, D got it, then H, then O. Everyone started running to their desks, checking for that lifechanging email. That long due email. Over the last week 90% of my Iraqi coworkers, got their interview dates for the special visa immigration at the American Embassy in Amman. It was a joy felt everywhere. That Monday, was the day after Iraq won the Asia cup. And when I said, God was finally smiling at us, I believe he truely was smiling. For all my coworkers dreamt to get that opportunity. The opportunity of tasting freedom. The opportunity of tasting Life. The real Life. I guess Crockers words did make a difference. And its time for the US to take responsibilty of all those who truely helped them and risked their lives on a daily basis. It may not be enough, but it is a start.
Everyday since that Monday, we hear the same whistles and claps. Its now S, A, E, H, Z and Z. Then A and R and many others in the other companies. They all huddle up together, making plans. Plans of where they will meet back in the US. How will they meet. They ask me about cash and how much they can take with them. They ask about expenditures and airport procedures. You can see the colour has come back to their pale grief stricken faces. Wow, the difference in their attitudes, the difference in their words is amazing. Within a day and a night, their whole outlook on life changed. Those slumped shoulders, and sad eyes, are no where to be found anymore. When I ask them whether they will be coming back if their visas take longer than usual, the majority opted out for staying in Jordan waiting for it. Even if it takes 3 or 4 months S said, I will never come back to this place again, NEVER.
There are ofcourse a few who still havent gotten their interview dates yet. Those I feel terribly bad for. They look at their coollegues and wander why not me. Why didnt I get it yet. They look at their collegues with envy, yet mixed with happiness. As for me, I cried when some began to say their goodbyes. My tears welled in my eyes, even with people I didnt really get along with. FOr I realised, I will terribly miss them. They were my driving force. They were the reason I was here. They were the ones who taught me how to be strong and never give up. They showed me what true heroism is, and what it really means. It was them, who changed me. They changed me and made me into a better person. They may have learnt technical skills from me, but what they gave me, was far more valuable than any technical solution. They gave a meaning to my life. My life that 2 years ago was pointless, pointless and empty...
So now, they will travel a different journey. A journey filled with hope. A journey filled with dreams. A journey that will teach them the yearning that we Iraqis who left this place more than 25 years ago felt. With all the suffering and all the hardship they endured here, they will most definitely reminisce together and remember the "good" old days. But for now, for just a short while, this place, this place for them is going to be just a memory. A Bitter Sweet Memory...
And Finally...
A BETTER SWEET MEMORY (3)
Show me your cute toes he said. Huh? I typed. Show me your toes he repeated. I laughed. I laughed with all my heart. For it wasnt too long ago (3 years), that HUBBY used to tell me these same words. Its like deja vu all over again. I connected my webcam, and instead of pleasing HUBBY's weird fettish of toes, I scared him to death by sticking the lens to my crooked teeth. I cracked up laughing. I guess its gonna take a miracle, a real miracle for us to have a normal married life. Right now he is based somewhere other than Baghdad. A place that gets hit by 20-30 mortars daily. Although I worry about him all the time, but as long as I see him online, I know he is ok. Ever since he moved there a few months back, I dont get to see him, I dont get to see him at all. The only time I did was just a week when I went on my vacation, and even that wasnt enough. I wanted him and needed him more this time than any other time I can remember. I missed him. I truely did.
The skype, the yahoo messenger, the cam, the phonecalls, are our only way of communicating. Our only way of checking on each other and listening to each other's woes. Show me your cute toes, took me aback. Wowwwww, was it really that long ago when we used to flirt with each other??? Was it that long ago when we'd play and have fun??? It seems that this place sucked all the life from us, all the fun loving stuff we used to have. I almost forgot how it felt like to be loved and teased by HUBBY. Do you love me he asks. I go quiet, for HUBBY rarely asks me this. Can I sleep on it I answer and tell you tomorrow? He types the B word, and I do my Loooooooooooool. ATleast for those precious moments, he doesnt talk about his work, nor complain about his bosses. For those precious moments, I have him , I have him all for myself. I may not see him, I may not be able to touch him. But I feel him. I feel him with me, with me in my heart. But the toes fettish, that, that definitely will remain, will remain a memory. A Bitter Sweet Memory...
And with that I conclude, My Bitter Sweet Memories
45 Comments:
Thats wonderful!
So how are these people going to enter Jordan for the interview?
every Iraq knows that theres a %50 chance of being refused entry to Jordan.
Great post NIW...Sad...and sweet....Exactly like you said it....Bittwesweet...
Hope you're doing OK.
Hello Neurotica , an amazing describtive narrative account of " BITTER SWEET MEMORIES" astounding way of conveyinf emotions feelings & actual humaninteraction .whether any of these people shall ever stay in touch or return is anyone`s guess?! But nevertheless my admiration to you for bringing to life in words a factual account of that is entailed in human contact & endevour to sense that most noble of feelings love & affection, itis not a novel but a real factual interaction that has taken place in the recent past with you that you have brought forth to us .Loads of love "LOVELY TOESe" all the very BEST OF BRITISH & KINDEST REGARDS to TARRAA for the time being luv www-bfbs.com walter@swedenmail.com as always yours Lars -Olaff
OH NEURITICA BY the WAY I ALSO have croocked teeth some of us old Britts from the 1800s have such teeth I mean me not you luv. again lloads of love www.bfbs.com walter@swedenmail.com Lars
Well,, actually I do need those 3 days to read it... but for some reason I readed last one first... I believe this is like this for a reason, maybe your relation will just get STRONGER when the both of you get back together again... Thats my perception of this!
Hehe, I'll read the other 2 tomorrow :)
Nice post. Quite "bittersweet" I must say.
What the Iraq situation has done to so many peoples lives...it's truely staggering.
I really hope Hubby will one day come to his senses and start worshipping you instead of Iraq. You deserve it.
So come on Hubby what are you waiting for! Neurotica is ready to make some babies.
Zappy, 50%? I thought it was more like 80%, particularly if you are under 40.
NIW, keep us posted on this, please. It is important stuff you write.
Hey Zappy, apparantely, a deal was made between the Iraqis and Jordanians and I guess the Americans, that if they allow Iraqis in for that Visa thing, then 50 Jordanians, will be given the opportunity for that same visa for the Green card. Thats how low the jordanian govt was. They took 50 places, but hey, atleast theyre letting in our people. so I should stop complaining....
Hey DXB, Long time, How are you???
Lol Olaff...Crooked teeth eh, well, mine aint THAT bad, but I still think they need some work to be done on them...
Thajmode, lol, yup I guess it does take 3 days to read. Not sure if its written in my book of destiny that HUBBY and I will ever settle down, I guess Ill just have to wait and see..
TAI, read what I wrote to Zappy. 5 people already arrived in JOrdan, and were given no probelms. Oh and check this out,instead of the 3 days that the Jordanians used to stamp for the,, they now stamped 2 weeks!!!
Neurotica,
It's so thrilling to be able to use your unofficial nickname, but I guess if HUBBY uses it, then it's the real thing. I don't find you neurotic at all. I find your writing wonderful. I support you, and everyone else who is trying their best to make the world a better place...this, of course, is not the end of it, because lots of people who are making horrible choices may feel this way. I guess I will have to oppose some of their choices, and try to find a way to honor their humanity, even if the two seem to conflict.
Well, I didn't get on here to share my opinions, but I guess forums such as these lend themselves to that. I guess I just hope to fall in love like your husband, and find someone I can ask the same question to (about loving me, not about toes, although there's nothing wrong with that). I think the strength of your love has to do with the fact that you are trying to help the world in very difficult circumstances, even though those same circumstances often (daily, it seems...hourly) challenge your souls to stay fresh, your emotions to remain alive. I know you can do it.
You have inspired me. Thank you! I want to use my life to do better, to make the world a better place. Thanks again!
-Philippe
that if they allow Iraqis in for that Visa thing, then 50 Jordanians, will be given the opportunity for that same visa for the Green card.
NIW, I had no idea!
Ya3ni, seriously, maku thameer. When will they STOP milking every opportunity. Even in our despair?
Even in this!?!
Ok, I take my comment back about the Jordanians making it easy. ALtho Im at work I had to write down the latest nes from my coworkers. Two of them left yesterday on RJ. They arrived into Amman, they took each of them to an inevstigation room. And I have to say this, one is a sunni, one is a shia. The sunni was question for 4 hours, and then was given 3 days transit in Jordan. The Shia, is right now in Alia airport being deported back to Baghdad. HE WAS REFUSED ENTRY!!! So i take it back, those Jordanians, are good for nothing!!!Oh and check this out, D, the sunni was asked abt his profession, when he told them an engineer, the jordanian official, then said, so why did u apply for this US translation visa. D replied, cuz I did work as a translator. I mean pls give me a break what is it to them, for gods sake!!! The Bastards!!! Im so pissed off right now, will keep u updated.
Hello Neurotica, It understandible that the artficial obstacles placed in people`s paths to exit a dire desparate situation is abonimable but take this in the larger context of things in the region & you`l make out that it is part & parcel of the political game that these poor souls are falling victim to as pawns in the game not least the whole thing being envoked & provoked by the troublle stirred by the axis of evil the despicable iran so that may put it all in perspective. loads of love www.bfbs.com walter@swedenmail.com all the best luv
I take it that the Sunni must be a wonderful chatterbox type of guy ;)
it would be wonderful if someone advised him to stick there until his paperwork is completed.
NIW, I'm an avid reader, albeit a quiet one..
Allah yer7am H and help his wife bear the weight of living in Iraq..
I admire your honesty.. :)
T.A.I. I didn't want to be pointed out as a pesimist, to be Hounest 99% of under 35 year olds are not allowed in Jordan, its the Intelligence Officers Judgment that counts, if hes not convinced about you then you do not enter.
of course we must not always blame the Jordanian's about everthing.
I believe that there is a U.S. Embassy in Iraq, as I recall its quite a large one too.
why don't they do the Visa applications there I wonder?
furthermore, If the Iraqi Government does not respect niether its countrymen or themseleves why would other countries respect Iraq or Iraqi's?
we now come to the full curcle.
Why are we Actually Blogging ? its because of all the Above
I was told that the Iraqi Embasador to the U.K. has a Diplomatic Passport and All Iraqi Diplomatic Passports are S series, if he leaves the U.K. for a holiday or anything he will not be permitted to enter the U.K. again!
Who decided on this rule? it was the stupid Iraqi Government!!
I needed a copy of my Bachelours Certificate from my University do you know what they said?
they said you have to prove that you finished Highschool!!!!
if they don't trust there own documents and archive, who will trust them and why should we Iraqi's trust the Government?
and by Government I mean the whole Iraqi "Infrastructure".
we shouldn't blame the outher countries for our own mistakes and chaos even thou you may say it was cause by those countries, who let them interfer? , would do we let them interfer?
Please read this article and tell me, is this FAIR??? IS IT???
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/iraq/article2211211.ece
The International community has to do something to save these people. The Time Magazine, awarded us the award of the year. US meaning the people, the people of this world. Whats the point of our existence if we cant do one thing thats good, one thing that can give a life to another human??? I alone, cannot do anything, us together can do alot!!!
Hello Neurotica , As mentioned previously I am with you & we are with you united we stand www.bfbs.com whatever you decide , the best path forth to enhance prospects for improvement in the situation at hand ,do tell me & I shall be withyou.You have a good instinct for the progress of the region & establishing a free & broadminded society in IRAQ & THE REGION let us move forth together . All the best darling God bless luv www.bfbs.com walter@swedenmail.com yours as always Olaff-Lars
Before I say anything about Zappy's comment or read NIW's link, I have to paste this:
Dunno if it alleviates or whether they will backtrack:
Jordanians open schools to Iraqis
The Jordanian government has announced that all Iraqi children living in the country will be able to go to government schools for the first time.
There are around three-quarters of a million Iraqi refugees in Jordan.
Families are now rushing to get school places for their children before the next academic year begins in less than two weeks.
The children of Iraqis who are in the country illegally will also be allowed to attend state schools.
Iraq's ambassador in the Jordanian capital, Amman, Saad Hayani, welcomed the decision.
He said it would resolve "one of the Iraqi community's main problems".
Only relatively few Iraqis in Jordan have been able to get a formal education - those who are from families with residency permits or those rich enough to send their children to private schools.
BBC Amman correspondent Crispin Thorold says the decision is a huge relief for thousands of Iraqis who often complain about official discrimination in Jordan.
Many families have tried to school their children at home. Others have had no formal education since they fled Iraq.
The United Nations will work with the Jordanian government to help schools enrol up to 50,000 Iraqis before the start of the next academic year.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/middle_east/6935002.stm
Published: 2007/08/07 13:29:44 GMT
© BBC MMVII
“This is cowardly. The British make us easy food near the lion’s mouth ...
NIW, I could tell you horror stories from people who worked more than interpreters in northern Iraq. I blogged about a relative who was executed for that.
In any case, to answer your question, no, it isn't fair. And it likely won't be fair for a long time.
Allah ysa3idhm.
Zappy, you aren't being a pessimist, my friend. I think it is very difficult for us to remain optimistic. I know we Iraqis try to be but ... it is a painstaking effort.
One such intelligence officer decided to bar my 76-year-old uncle from entering Jordan EVEN though he had entered three times since 2003 and 11 times since 1991.
I wish asking if you were Shia or Sunni were the end of it. Shia stand about an icicle's chance in hell of being allowed in. Sunnis, a little bit better.
They also ask you what tribe you belong to.
If you are a young single woman (or even if you are married but travelling alone) the intelligence officer will eye you like you are a vagabond and then blurt out "What are you going to do in Jordan; you know we have many Iraqi women working as prostitutes".
: (
NIW,
I too thought there was a functioning U.S. embassy in Iraq. Why are Iraqis still required to go thru Jordan? Good question.
You know what's sick, the U.S. embassy in Jordan no doubt realizes the trouble most Iraqis will have getting to the embassy for their interviews. "Sure, come on in for your interview. Just watch out for all the poisonous snakes and pitfalls on your way." In other words, good luck getting here. It's like dangling a carrot with no intentions of giving it. Bastards.
Always,
Melanie
I am new to your blog, but I think it is great to hear what really goes on in your lives and to let us see it from your perspective. I will be a loyal reader.
I read that article. Iraqis really know how to torture people. Sheesh
This is just further evidence to suggest that neither the British nor the Americans care about the welfare of Iraqis. I mean seriously, how obvious does it have to be. Iraqis have been starved, beaten, tortured, terrorized, bombed, killed, displaced, rejected and denied a safe haven by the coalition forces.
Is this there definition of caring?
Helo Hello Hello , The definition for caring can be surmised by the noun Neurotica , She is the epitamy of a lovely person who is interested in having a broad minded free social structure In IRAQ (& THE REGION AS A WHOLE ) for people to live in comfort & freedom I for stand in the que for a caring person & jion her Let us all jion someone who genuinely cares Loads of love to Neurotica & all who jion www.bfbs.com walter@swedenmail.com as always yours Olaff
Hello Again everyone Join JOIN JOIN the que & stand up for freedom & a person who really cares as Neurotica said if we stand together it shall be achieved so let us stand alongside NEUROTICA you luvly lassie www.bfbs.com God Bless yours as always Olaf walter@swedenmail.com cheers me MATES
From the home page of the U.S. embassy in Baghdad, Iraq:
"Note: At the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, we only accept applications for three types of nonimmigrant visas (Diplomatic and Government Officials, Representatives to International Organizations, and USG-funded exchange visitors). All other nonimmigrant and immigrant visa applications must be filed at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate outside of Iraq."
My guess is that this is: 1) a vicious way to cut down on the number of applicants by putting in a hoop to jump through, and 2) is a way to avoid having crowds of Iraqis at the U.S. embassy all the time, which would be a security risk (bombers bombing the line, etc). Or, indeed, a headache to make sure all Iraqis are thoroughly searched before entering the compound (to prevent insurgents from attacking U.S. embassy staff.)
p.s. Iraqi Wife,
This was a wonderful blog post. It is great to hear that your coworkers are getting interviews. It would have been much better if Iraq had succeeded and they all had a wonderful safe and free and prosperous life in Iraq -- but if that cannot happen, then the U.S. is a good second choice.
Hey, when are you going to post a picture of your feet?!?! Just kidding! :-)
Hi.. I love your blog.
Hi Neurotica
Haven't posted anything for a while but am also an avid reader of your blog. Gives such a personal face to the horror stories each day from your homeland. Thank you for these bitter sweet memories.
Great post NIW! I hope your colleagues get their visa to the US. I really hope so.
The story about you and hubby made me giggle so much! Awwww...how cute. I pray that God would continue to keep him safe.
NIW, H is not a Shia, Hes a Sunni Even if his name states otherwise.
Kindly either remove the baqckground picture or try to change the background color/font color to better read on your excellent articles.
These are Reuters pictures and excerpts which are no more available to see miserable life of those who helped American Military.
http://www.shiachat.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=234929219&view=findpost&p=1439092
In this photo from video, Saamir Ali helps position a food cart onto a sidewalk on the upper east side of Manhattan, Friday, June 22, 2007 in New York. Finding steady work has been difficult for Saamir since seeking asylum in the United States, and transporting food carts is one of the more frequent jobs he can find daily. Once an interpreter for the U.S. Army in Fallujah, Saamir was shot by insurgents on his way home one evening and left for dead before being found by Army personnel. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
In this photo from video, Saamir Ali begins a breakfast of boiled eggs, hummus and pita bread after his job of transporting food carts Friday, June 22, 2007 in New York. After having been shot in the face by insurgents in Iraq, Saamir's diet is limited to soft foods since he lacks teeth in the back of his mouth. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
In this photo from video, Saamir Ali talks about being shot in the face and left for dead by Iraqi insurgents during an interview at his home Sunday, June 17, 2007 in Queens, New York. Saamir was once an interpreter for the U.S. Army in Fallujah. After traveling to New York in 2005 for reconstructive surgery, he was granted asylum. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
In this photo from video, Saamir Ali talks about working as a translator for the U.S. 82nd Airborne in Iraq during an interview at his home Sunday, June 17, 2007 in Queens, New York.
In this photo released by Lorna Tychostup, Saamir Ali undergoes a second reconstructive surgery of his mouth during an operation by Manoj Abraham, right, and another doctor in June of 2006 at a clinic in New York. Saamir, who had been an interpreter for the U.S. Army in Fallujah, Iraq, was shot in the face and left for dead by insurgents as he left the army compound one evening in February of 2004. He later traveled to New York for surgery in 2005 and was granted asylum . (AP Photo/ Lorna Tychostup)
This flyer put on Saamir Ali's windshield says 'Never deal with the enemy and his allies. Our eyes are wide open, and our fingers are on the trigger.' A few weeks later, Saamir, who was working as an interpreter for the U.S. Army in Fallujah, Iraq, was shot in his van while leaving the military compound to go home for the evening. He was left for dead and later saved by a passing American convoy. (AP Photo/ Courtesy of Saamir Ali)
Zappy, yes, and so I found out later on. I told HUBBY akeed H ga3id hessa cursing his parents for naming him. Not funny I know, but I too thought he was a shia. Infact, I never asked anyone at work about their sect, but just like the ignorant official, I guess I too was ignorant because of his name. ;-(
Thaqlain, I will try someother time. Maybe if you highlight it with your curser, it will help.You aint the first person to complain. Thank you for the article though, its a very sad life for all the Iraqis. I hope one day, they will be able to live a good life, the life they deserve...
Moody, I havent sene you here for awhile, read your last post, and felt your depression. I hope my post, the part you liked, really did make you laugh...
Beams, you too, havent seen you here in awhile. I know KNow, sometimes my posts tend to get extremely borrrrrring...sorry...
TY drama Princess, IM glad you like it
Barb, ty...there are many times, people read me, like me at first, then hate me,lol...I guess they cant agree to disagree. But I sure do hope that you will be a loyal reader and stick around...I visited your blog, and your daughters' blogs, I too will be a frequent visitor ;-)
Melanie, thats exactly it. But the trugh has to be told. When H was going to get deported, my other coworker, contacted the US embassy in Jordan, and they infact, did send an envoy to assist H. H, is right now in Amman, finally and he is waiting for his interview...So I guess theyre getting alot of pressure to help Iraqis if the face problems at the airport...Im glad, its abt time!!!
Oh and please check this blog by a fellow Iraqi, on the horrific treatment him and his wife together with tens of Iraqis got in Jordan. Its truly disgusting!!!
http://last-of-iraqis.blogspot.com/2007/08/jail.html
So we have Iraqis killing Iraqis, Americans killing Iraqis and vice versa and Jordanians kicking and humiliating Iraqis.
Any ideas as to WHY? people treat others so badly. Anybody?
THe reason IT`s bad & going from bad to worse is the fact that an axis of evil iran is continuing stirring it up for it`s own sinnister ends & thus not give Iraq & the region a Chance of recovery so all the attrocities you witness are a result of a political dirty game to keep IRAQ on it`s knees & as you say humiliated & God forbid that it revives & becomes part of the free globe & or The British Commonwealth alongside the region & so The iranien evil trancsends all levels & standards of decency to keep the populace at each others throats & remain in humiliated dire strait condition in Short it is the dirty political game that is causing the mayhem there through the dirty iranien iterference ..All the very bst to all of you Mateys www,bfbs.com walter@swedenmail.com Cheers Olaff TArraa for now
NIW- I ask you to please watch the documentary "I Know I'm Not Alone". It is the true story of an American man who visits Iraq armed only with his guitar. He is invited into real Iraqi homes, and he records what they really want to say to the world. What a brave person he was, while you sit there in your green zone office inside the American walls. I have so much more respect for someone who thinks connecting with real people is the answer, not those people (like you) who hide behind walls working for the very people who dropped bombs and depleted uranium on life. I use to have respect for you, but now I realize you are a poser. A fake. You are not a real Iraqi, and you do not work for Peace. You work for Americans. They created this horror. They keep the the War Of Terror going. It's a real shame because otherwise you seem like a nice lady. Too bad you work for the criminals.
Will you ever venture out and meet the very people you are supposedly "helping"? Ha! I doubt it. When was the last time you were invited to dine at an everyday Iraqi's home? If you have, you certainly haven't let anyone know. I think you should be ashamed of yourself.
NW, i was thinking of really ready the blog in 3 days, but the moment i started to read the first one, i could not stop. it is really sad what happened to your friend, life and people can be so cruel. i hope all this would stop some day, so that we can go back to Iraq, the place where we were borned, where we burried our beloved ones, and our memories....... God bless you and bless all the Iraqis.
Dearest neurotica....your posts are never boring...I visit often but just don't comment all the time...just at a loss for words most of the time at the injustices your people are facing day in and day out. I am amazing at the criticism often levelled at you and the calm way you respond. If only we could all take notice from that....respond in love ....this world would be a far happier place.
Hello You are so right spot on beams me O`l mate keep on beaming & smiling We say exactly the same thing in quote Loads of love to our lovely Neurotica & all the very best Taa m`e O`l mateys Tarraa fpr the time being & greetings music lovers request any song you like we are www.bfbs.com walter@swedenmail.com The very best of British to you all & kindest of regards As always Olaff
Hello again It seems to me a prime example of the folley of having a puppet axis of evil iranien agents running around the country hiding behind official uniforms on behalf the dirty polica of iran, a folley to call this nation anywhere near on the road to recovery & No it is not our allied forces who are at fault but its in fact the iranien criminals sorry but that is the fact . All the best tone & all www.bfbs.com walter@swedenmail.com kindest regards Olaff
NIW? Dontcha think its time for another one?
Yallah 3ad, guumi.
Hello my friend says YA3nie balkat ilbniya ta3baana mooheechi ya3nie
Looooooooool Olaff!!! You took me out of my misery, actually your friend took me out of my misery!!! Here I am sitting at my desk, pissed off at some work thing I have to deal with, decided to check my yahoo email, and saw this comment. It cracked me up!!! Than your friend for me and tell him "eeee ta3bana moo ishon machan, chanee 7aktullee fed wa7id ilyoum" ;-) and tell him the last part isnt literally!!!
Hello Neurotuca , Alright darling I shall tell him that relay your message & particularly reiterate that the latter part about killing that boy isn`t meant litteraly OOOOOOOOOOOps!!??tarraa luv you lovely lassie www.bfbs.com walter@swedenmail.com Cheers Olaff
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