Everything seems ambigious today. It's Christmas Eve, traditionally the day that Italians, and most Europeans, celebrate Christmas with a family dinner and then presents at midnight. Gigi's mother has just moved house in the last week, and he seems a little vague about the planned festivities for tonight.
We are leaving soon, to catch the train to their new place. I will just have to wait, and deal with the ambiguity in true 'foreigner living overseas' fashion, and in accordance with the 'Ways to Deal with Culture Shock' suggestions I have recenlty written (and posted as a separate blog).
I have noted the following internet news headlines with great sadness this afternoon:
- US fails to curb radical cleric
- Suicide bomber kills 7 police in Iraq
- Ethiopia lauches attack against Somalia
- Nigerian militants bomb government facility
- US military kills Taliban's key leader
- Iran rejects UN sactions, will pursue nuclear plans
So, as you celebrate the festive season with your loved ones, a laden table, a sparkling tree and gifts spare a thought for peace, and those that will not share the same Christmas spirit in safety, in a stable, prosperous community and home. Remember to give thanks, for it's only by the luck of being born in the right place, to the best of families, that we have the lives that we do.
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