Chic Politika

The Berries

2007-06-20T08:26:00.000+03:00

With all the retarded, few years late craze of the Blackberry in Kuwait, and while thinking of the "habba" factor of our society.. I was wondering, what about Pinkberry? A pretentious yoghurt chain all over L.A.

On a recent trip to the States, I wanted to know what the buzz was all about, so my friends immediately dragged me to the local Pinkberry. Upon our arrival, I notice the long line on the street, with a velvet rope by the door, I squint.. "is that a bouncer??" Yes, my friends.. a bouncer at a yoghurt place! He can only allow a certain number of people inside, even if you're ordering to go. Oh, and no cameras allowed, not inside, not outside. And this isn't your Baskin Robbins 31 flavors, there's only 2 flavors @ Pinkberry: Plain (which is yoghurt.. like real unsweetened yoghurt) and Green Tea. They are however famous for their toppings, which I must admit, was the only thing I ate out of the entire cup! All fresh chopped fruit, cookies, shredded coconut, granola, etc. The presentation is fabulous, and so are the nutrition facts, and the interior design.

After standing in line for about 15 minutes, in awe of what is happening around me.. I was utterly disappointed with the flavor. I didn't understand what everyone in line was talking about, nor did I understand my friends cravings to go treat themselves to what is plain yoghurt dumped in the freezer. I guess even a yoghurt place, like skinny jeans is a trend.

Campaign: Don't Pick Yo Nose Homie

2007-06-10T12:35:00.000+03:00

In the greuling heat on a late Friday morning, I wake up craving a Chicken Pesto Panini from Carribou Cafe! Everyone's off in Al-Politika's household so I prye myself out of bed and jump in my car, drive to the Cafe with the warm chicken pesto panini image in my head and its delicious taste in my mouth, making the heat and the inconvenient drive all the worth while.

It was after Salat time, so there was soothing classical music on all radio stations, definately kept me calm, with rosey thoughts.

On my way, I stop at a traffic light, just me and a cab driver, picking his nose like there's no tomorrow! I swear to you, I'm about to gag right now as I am writing this, but I must to prove a point. As the light turned green, I sped like a maniac trying to erase that image!

..stop at yet another light. For some reason took a glimpse of the rear view mirror, and there's a pick-up truck driver going at it with his nose!! I was beginning to get sick to my stomach. This is soooo not what I needed to see while driving all the way to the City just to grab a sandwich!

The light turned green and the truck was next to me now. He was still picking his nose and staring at me! I honked!! Honked honked honked like there was no tomorrow. Honked in disgust. He seemed bewildered as I sped away. If his mama didn't teach him any manners and hygeine.. then God help me I will, to protect myself from these blinding images on a sunny weekend!! Not only did those nose-pickers ruin my morning, but they also ruined my appetite!!

Yes, I have been so sick of the useless laborors who are brought here so those Residency Merchants can make extra cash! There are more expat laborors than locals and I still don't see clean streets and building built overnight like Dubai!

This one time on Mishref walk-way, I saw a laboror peeing.. by the bench! I mean, they bring those people from boon doons and villages and dump them in this country with no guidance nor training! I am sick of it!! I am sick of the taxi cabs honking at me while I'm walking from one shop to the parking. I am sick of having lunch at Chilli's while having a sea view of expat, laborors swimming in their underwear!! Nasty!

I don't know if this sounds like a racist post, but that's exactly how I feel. I don't think Kuwaitis are perfect and we must win the award for the world's craziest, yet dumbest drivers, amongst other flaws.

So... I wanna launch a campaign "Don't Pick Yo Nose Homie!" I wanna design these signs with no words, so they can understand wherever they're from: a nose with an index finger inside one nostril and a huge red line painted diagonally on the nose! I wanna place them on every friggin traffic light in the City. I know there are more important issues to campaign for, but since Friday, this is my most important one! Basic civil behavior, people!!

So, who's with me?

Honey, I'm Home!

2007-05-06T09:18:00.000+03:00

I missed you.

Did you miss me?

My job and my projects have been taking me away from everyone and everything. I haven't seen a movie since Marie Antoinette! Last episode of Grey's Anatomy Season 3 I had seen is #10!! Not to mention that I still haven't seen Ugly Betty!!

The last Newsweek I had read was in mid-March, and the only news I get to see is on the mini screen at my elliptical machine @ the gym. Go Ségolène!

Now that I have a little more time, and had the chance to catch up with some friends... God, I feel I missed out. Life is short, too short. I'm too young to be killing myself for the sake of work or accomplishing my goals. No matter how busy you get and how much you exert yourself, always remember your life, your health, and loved ones; this helped me to recharge, and mentally return home.

But other than that, I'm well, healthy and happy!

What about you? How've you been? Health? Family? Friends? Work? Blogs? Kuwait?

What's bothering you? What do you wanna talk about? Tell me! I'm all ears and full of caffiene.

Luv,
Chic P.

Ya

2007-02-06T08:39:00.000+03:00

I'm still here.

2 drained 2 blog.

have so much to write abt.

later.

Model LiLo

2007-01-14T18:55:00.000+03:00

I know she's not the smartest, most respectable celebrity, and she's definately not known for her acting or vocal skills. but one thing for certain is Lindsay Lohan's got style... and I heart it!

Whether she's being chased by the paparazzi or posing on the red carpet, she always manages to mix it up with the latest trends. After becoming buddy buddys with Karl Lagerfeld, we all thought (including her I'm sure) she'd end up in last season's Chanel ad campaign.. didn't happen. Then there were speculations that Marc Jacobs would have her as the face of LV or for his own line, but that didn't happen either.

Now, after hearing so much about her deal as the face for Miu Miu Spring 2007, her first ad just popped up and I have mixed feelings about it. I mean, yes, her name as a style icon for young women is attractive and she does have doll-like, sharp but small features, but the ad does not capture her essence of style, a free spirit.

Either it went through some heavy duty photoshop, or they just stuck her face on a Barbie doll's body dressed in a mini model of a Miu Miu outfit. Overall, it's spectacularly done! I like the concept, I'm just not sure if it would've made a difference whether it was Lindsay Lohan or any other girl modelling in the ad.

Bumpy Start

2007-01-09T08:47:00.000+03:00

Remember my last post about de-stress? Ya.. not happening.. 2007: I don't think it's working out.

Random Rant
I was attending a luncheon for work and sat with my boss with - what we later found out - the weirdest person I've met. Well, this year at least. The table consisted of my boss, 3 foreign guests, Dr. CRAZY WOMAN, and your truly.

Introductions were made and then it started:
Plz keep in mind when reading the dialogue that this woman is so depressing, monotone, speaks broken, old school Kuwaiti english, with no smile on her face and is terribly inappropriate!

Dr. Crazy Woman to my boss: I want you to manufacture my product.

Boss: Unfortunately we do not provide technical assistance, but what is your product?

Dr. CW: Why?? It is for babies who cannot drink milk from their mothers! Sometimes babies vomit, it is a tube. Sometimes, women are on liquid diet, it is for them to suck the liquid without vommiting! (............??)

Boss: (uncomfortable and obviously grossed out by the inappropriate table conversation): That sounds interesting, well.. I wish you best of luck with your endeavor.

Turns to the foreign guests

So, is this your first time in Kuwait?

Foreign Guest: Yes, we just arrived last...

Dr. CW interrupts: But then what you do? What is your job? If you not manufacture this device for me?

My boss explains the nature of our work which has absolutely nothing to do with manufacturing individuals projects, nor do we work in the sciences.

FG: It's awfully cold in Kuwait, does it snow at all.

My boss and I in unison: No!

Dr. CW: Yes! It's snow last week.

Me: I wasn't here last week, but maybe that's hail (I translated in Arabic since she obviously wouldn't understand what that is)

Dr. CW: No! In the farms there is snow! on the ground. They found in the morning! Snow! Thalj!

Me: Yeah, it was around zero degrees so I guess any water would freeze at that temperature. Thalj mo ya3ny snow, it's just frozen water.. ice (trying to explain as much as I can to an idiot and obviously losing my patience).

Dr. CW: No! I see bicture.

FG: So, is the education system in Kuwait segregated?

Me: Public education K-12, yes. Universities were never segregated until recently.

Dr. CW: No! My college is not, it is mix. When I was in college 1990 I study with boys it is mix.

Is this woman living in a cave??!! My boss and I excused ourselves early!! How can a woman invited to such an event who is a PhD holder, be that dumb?

What's Yours?

2006-12-24T08:00:00.000+03:00

Last year, my new year's resolution for 2006 was to travel to at least 3 new places... I did 2 out of 3. It was actually the first new year's resolution that I have made in which I have attempted to fulfill. Perhaps I should "re-resolute" my 2006 resolution for 2007 until I complete 3 out of 3!

I wanted to see more new cities, but... let's be real! Work, obligations, responsibility, finances... I mean, I'm a working woman living in Kuwait in my mid-20s with a stress level of a 45 year old smoker in Manhattan! Maybe that should be my new year's resolution! Stress Less!

I'm proud of my accomplishments for 2006, and in the years before. I feel like I have exhausted (or at least attempted to) all my ambitions, and I just wanna be a free-spirit and relax. But, I would kill myself if I relaxed for more than a day. Realistically, there is sooo not gonna be any down time for moi cuz I've already started a couple of projects for 2007, so.. ya right!! Now where's my coffee?!?!

What's your new year resolution for 2007?

Stop (and Give)! In the name of Love

2006-12-18T11:00:00.000+03:00

The holidays are near, Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid, or whatever other celebration you believe in.. it is a time to love, share, and give.

I'm sure all you shopaholics will be doing a lot of shopping in the upcoming days, and while you're clicking on net-a-porter or amazon, please visit and shop at the following sites. Your purchase can make a difference, stop poverty, and support those in need.

Beaded jewlery by Ugandan Women http://www.beadforlife.org/

Bags made by Indian Sex Workers www.freesetbags.com

A voucher that pays for an orphan's food and education for a year http://gvnfoundation.org/whatyoucando/donate/gifts/

Believe me, you'll experience retail therapy with a new level of euphoria.

2006 is all about You !!

2006-12-17T08:53:00.000+03:00

TIME's Person of the Year is YOU!

It is you fellow bloggers, YouTube freaks, MySpace socialites... You shape the world, you influence, you decide and you make yourself heard!

Well done y'all.

Wafe: Fashion Diplomacy

2006-12-14T01:44:00.000+03:00

Please wait to see Mary-Kate Olsen at the end. SO TRUE!! Loool !!

Eating disorders and image obsession has been going on for quite some time, but it is only recently that I have been seeing such a hype regarding this issue. Since Spring Fashion Week, government officials accross Europe have started to take action against this fatal obsession. Even notorious fashion queen and Vogue Editor in Chief, Anna Wintour (under pressure) has decided to step forward and put a stop to this internally within the fashion industry.

http://www.nypost.com/seven/12112006/gossip/pagesix/pagesix.htm

UPDATE: Italian designers sign code with the government requiring models to present medical clearance of eating disorders.

Can I please say how excited I am that my world of fashion and politics have decided to join forces. Although it is under unfortunate circumstances, I hope to see more positive collaboration in the future ;)

Maybe I'm Just Like My Mother....

2006-12-11T08:20:00.000+03:00

As Arabs, will we every be satisfied with our governments?

Continue to blame them for mistakes we 've made...

I'll be damned if I live to see a truly democratically elected Arab government.

Are they really the bad guys? Or are we just never satisfied?

2007

2006-12-09T10:17:00.000+03:00

Just out of curiosity and boredom being the first day of the week and all...

How will you spend New Year's?

Kuwait?
Travelling?
with a loved one?
family?
chalet?
Party til the break of dawn? Or til u lose all memory of 2006?

Seriously?

2006-12-06T10:45:00.000+03:00

www.05amam.org

Well it's about Friggin' Time!!

2006-12-04T10:34:00.000+03:00

An Ambitious Lady

(A Blonde)

An African-American Gentleman

(A Brotha)

Now we're talkin...

UPDATE

(article, short and sweet)

I'm in the mood for love...

2006-11-25T23:37:00.000+03:00

OK I just got a chance to upload this camera pic onto my computer, but last week as I was sipping my daily dose of Turkish coffee on a lazy morning at work... something grabbed my attention..

Do you see it?? Aaawwwwww...

Ya right! :(

Blah

2006-11-18T09:07:00.000+03:00

I hate writing "blah" posts. But seriously, I hate Saturdays! Or any first working day of the week! I mean, especially when it's cold and your bed is so warm after a good night's sleep.. you peel yourself out of bed to go to the bathroom after the alarm goes off...don't look back at your fluffly bed!! The second you turn around and take a glimpse of how fluffy, warm and comfortable it looks, it will lure you back in ... evil ! bad ! bad bed! Let me go to work! No! I cannot just lay there for 5 more minutes!!

aaaaaaaaaaaaand.. im late for work.

*sigh*

Shopping Trends

2006-11-07T11:19:00.000+03:00

I love shopping in Soho in NYC or on Robertson in LA... the freedom of hopping from one store to the next experiencing a variety of decors retail categories and items, passing by strangers running errands or on their way back home after a hard day's work makes outdoor shopping trips like these so special. But shopping in a mall is kind of a one-stop shop, vanilla latte, air conditioned trip, it's gotta be a favorite among Kuwaiti chicks.

So, when I was asked this question by a friend of mine last night: "Would you rather shop in a mall or a free standing boutique?" I immediately answered, thinking I was probably the only Kuwaiti girl to say that, but was surprised when told that many other girls in Kuwait prefer to shop outside a mall cuz it gives them the freedom to go as casual and whenever they want, as opposed to having to look at your absolute best walking into Al Salhiya or Al Raya. But in Kuwait, we don't have that King's Road, Melrose, or Avenue Montagne atmosphere where everything is conveniently located in a block or along a strip.

What do you think? Mall or free standing shop?

Mother of All Verdicts

2006-11-05T12:30:00.000+03:00

Saddam Hussein: the death penalty, while members of his posse get as low as 15 years...thoughts?

Wentworth Miller - Prison Break

2006-10-23T18:00:00.000+03:00

Ladies, am I right?

Ya zaman alwassl fil Andalosi

2006-10-16T16:50:00.000+03:00

Al Hambra

I've been to ancient castles before, but this was the first time I felt something upon entering and exploring Al Hambra. I know this is going to sound so twilight zone of me, but upon my entrance I felt a hint of familiarity, perhaps it was the Arabic inscriptions on the wall, the poetry and God's familiar name, or perhaps it was the guide's constant reference to Islam and the Crusades, wars between the East and West, Christian and Islam, "Wa La Ghalib illa Allah" and now thousands of years later we hear the same references. Our ancestors used it as beautiful art and current Islamists use it on swords. I know there have been many bloody battles in Islamic history, but even with the battles we had managed to build an empire of civilization.

All I know, is that it was the first time in a long long time that I felt proud of being an Arab... what a civilization we let slip away.

Most of Al Hambra has been restored, just like any ancient castle, cathedral or monument. So my favorite picture is the 3rd one, it's an original paint stained glass ceiling that has not been restored! Imagine, beautiful stained glass surviving the grueling sun of southern Spain for thousands of years. "Wa La Ghalib illa Allah."

Ups and Mostly Downs

2006-10-12T04:35:00.000+03:00

It's not just you, it's my friends, my family, my gym, my yoga, my pilates, my hobbies, my everything. I've neglected my usual life for a while, all I do is sleep and the only time I go out is to go to work. I'm usually full of energy, love to read and socialize, dive into deep discussions... I hate all of this stuff now. My close ones are saying that everything that comes out of my mouth recently is negative and that I must be suffering from depression. All I did was get defensive.

It's 04:31 am, I just woke up, and I came to the revelation...what the hell am I doing?! This is not me!! This is the opposite of me!! I'm not a cynic! I'm not a slacker! I'm not an introvert! But wait...you have to understand

I went on a great vacation early August, part with my friends and part by myself to explore Andalucia, where not only did I explore our history but met so many great people from around the world. It was the first liberating experience/vacation I've had in years.

I return to Kuwait excited about my dog's new clothes and accessories I bought him from Harrods and Pup City... 2 days of him wearing "The DogFather" t shirt (which he refused to take off it became his favorite. Boy's got style 6ali3 3alay), then he's gone. I know no one cares in this country and they think I should just get another one! Or laugh when I cry talking about him. I covered the entire area with flyers and all people could say was "agssaah chalb!" My friends and the entire household turned into a search party for a week. Ta3abt.. physically and emotionally.. those of you who have a pet or have lost one would understand, it's like being attached to a person, even worse, your dog is your companion, and my pup was definatelly mine. 2 months later I can't even sit in the garden cuz I know that's his favorite play area, 2 months later I can't even smell sausage stew, cuz that was his favorite food. He was near and dear to everyone's heart, my mom (who never wanted a dog) remembers him when we eat, the driver who used to play with him non stop talks about him constantly.

I hope he doesn't think we abandoned him and I want him to know that we love him and miss him so much. Whoever has him now, I hope you treat him well, he was a prince in this house and he is a well trained, smart, beautiful dog!

[ Upon my return from my trip I wanted to post so many great pix I took while I was there, which I will tomorrow I promise. ]

Then, I find out that I'm supposed to have surgery.. which I did since it was an emergency although my mom was out of town. Lost my love (I had a long post in mind about that but will just keep it for now) and now I'm having problems at work. I hate it.. I hate everything. But you know what I think? I have a feeling that all of these bad things were meant to happen to me all at the same time, because God has something better in store for me in the near future.. I woke up with this feeling, and I hope this is all over and behind me, with a new day to come for me to go to the gym, treat myself to a mani and pedi, have a decent fo6oor/ga3da with my family, and meet up with my friends later tonight.

As I was about to wrap up this post, my friend messaged me from London, she's doing her MA and was encouraging me to pursue my PhD.

... Why not?

She makes you wanna La-La

2006-09-05T06:13:00.000+03:00

So I'm on sick leave for 2 weeks after a minor, unexpected surgery. Laying in bed, bored to death, unable to strut down the streets of Kuwait sporting my new outfits (haha imagining this is NYC), muscles turning into flab by the second (haven't worked out since my vacation), feeling sorry for myself (first losing my precious dog, then bedridden) and trying to occupy myself by catching up on celebrity gossip while shopping online..when I came accross this

Can anyone guess who this blonde bimbo is? And I used to really like her punk look :(

2006-08-27T04:09:00.000+03:00

The Simple Life 4: The Ghauri Family part 2

Nicole: Salam? SALAMEE !!!

2006-08-27T03:08:00.000+03:00

The Simple Life 4: The Ghauri Family part 1

Mr. Ghauri: It's the most talked about religion since 9/11

Paris: Kabbalah!! :)

Bow Down when she comes to your town

2006-08-17T21:24:00.000+03:00

This is just part I of my vaca: The always controversial, The Almighty, Her Highness, Madonna

Imagine...Arab Woodstock

2006-07-27T16:33:00.000+03:00

Growing up reading Gandhi,
Watching Lady Diana,
Listening to Cat Stevens,
Singing John Lennon
Learning about Mother Theresa...

Why can't we have peace movements in the Middle East? Why is it that the alleged "blood thirsty/violent" West have more calls for peace, awareness on humanitarian issues and respect for life than we do?

Where are the voices of truth in the Middle East? And why do I get attacked for expressing my opinions and articulating reality by my own people?

Check out this article written by Cindy Sheehan, the mother of a US soldier who died 2 years ago in Iraq. Mrs Sheehan and everyone out there, you are a true inspiration.

Anyone wanna join me for a peace movement?

Code PINK
Gold Star Families for Peace

5

2006-07-17T13:12:00.000+03:00

مبروك يا كويت! صارت خمس

صح لسانك

2006-07-17T09:18:00.001+03:00

"أقول لنصر الله: لبنان ليس غزة"

رئيس اللقاء الديمقراطي النائب وليد جنبلاط

Why should Lebanon continuously pay for its neighbors' pain, violence, and greed?? This is ridiculous! Lebanon is a sovereign state! Its people shouldn't be used as human shields for other other people's war. Nor should it have to live the misery that Palestinians are living!

Globalization, loves it! Check out this link The Truth Laid Bear it features Israeli, Lebanese and Palestinian bloggers discussing the Mid East crisis. You can't get any more fair and objective than this.

* Please visit the buttons to support Lebanon

The Voice of Truth

2006-07-16T14:06:00.000+03:00

Check out Mustapha's latest entry Playing Chicken

Laish ya Hizbullah?

2006-07-13T13:14:00.000+03:00

Nurfudh ne7na nmoot, oloolon ra7 neb'aa
Ardhak wil byoot wilsha3b il3am yish'aa
... ya 7abeeby ya jnoob

Ghabit Shams il7aq - Julia Botrous

Soccer Politics: My Favorite Republican

2006-07-11T08:45:00.000+03:00

Watching the way Horacio Elizondo, the Argentinean referee, boldly reacted to Zidane's head-butt, resolutely showing him a red card and ejecting him from the game, made me think about how great it would be if we had the political equivalent of a red card --something we could flash for campaign fouls and astonishing acts of bad political behavior that would immediately remove the perpetrators from the political pitch.

OK, so I will share with you my Political Godmother Arianna Huffington's blog. For you who are fans of Bill Maher's show Politically Incorrect and (when that became too hot for national television, he later moved to an even better show) HBO's Real Time with Bill Maher you'd know Huffington, a lady with a presence you can't ignore, the most liberal-conservative political figure who does not articulate anything but well thought out opinions that reflect her solid principles, and even if you don't agree with her, you can't help but respect her. Arianna is the epitome of democratic dialogue, wish we had her in our majlis.

Don't know if we could remove corrupt, political perpetrators by flashing red cards, even countries with Watch-Dogs still have corrupt elements in their political system. This idea is some food for thought for Kuwaiti youth.

Dr. Al Tabtabaei...Ahead of His Time?

2006-07-10T13:14:00.000+03:00

More schools test single-sex classrooms
Federal change expected that will see trend grow further

So segregation, a hot topic amongst youth in Kuwait, and a topic that makes my temperature rise (and not in a good way) whenever I hear it. I've heard the arguments, I've met people who agree with segregated education, people like you and me, but I don't understand it because frankly I don't want to! It makes absolutely no sense to me.

Considering the poor standards of U.S. public school education, reformers have been trying to improve it for years. Currently in the U.S, "at least 223 public schools accross the country already offer some single-sex classrooms." Apparently, students in same-sex classes perform 20-50% better than co-ed classes. I've heard about such statistics in regional development conferences recently, but does performance on tests/exams validate Islamists' decisions to segregate education including higher education in Kuwait? The decision to segregate universities in Kuwait was based on no study other than the religious ideologies interfering with human development in a region that is already 3rd World.

Look at this case! Studies have been conducted before ideas were put forward and decisions made, moo e7na bad decision-making taken by bad-management based on...hawa!! Nothing!!

And so what if the students perform better? They will grow up to be timid, low self-esteemed and perverts.

According to the article, it is a trend that will catch on, but the truth remains that the U.S along with many other Western countries never impose policies on their people that leave them without a choice...in the developed world, there is always a choice, and segregated classrooms will remain a "trend."

What do you guys think?

UN Predictable politics, sports and the future

2006-07-10T10:42:00.000+03:00

A beautiful end to a stressful month. Funny how soccer takes on a life of its own, controls emotions, individuals, citizens, politics and of coarse the economy...yet when you think about it, it's just a game.

I'm very content with the choice of South Africa as a World Cup 2010 host, the benefits that will have on South Africa's economy from beautiful architectural designed stadiums, to advertisements, to tourism and to potential awareness of South Africa's social and political issues. Perhaps this decision will in part help address some of the MDG's before 2015.

Above is an ironic banner they have on their website preparing for a September conference. We'll see shino akhrat'ha ma3a hal UN, an IGO that has not accomplished much in recent years.

Zidane: You will carry a scar of regret for allowing yourself to lose it in the last moments of your career for as long as you live. Instead of leaving the game with pride, you left it with shame. What can I say, Arabs will remain Arabs.

Viva Italia! A team that has it all: looks, charm, skills and great skin tone to match their 4th Cup

...And World Peace

2006-07-05T10:06:00.000+03:00

Hero Square - Budapest
March 20, 2004
Burning torches "peace" event protesting the war on Iraq

The Nabeeha 5 and elections have distracted me from international news. I didn't realize it's been almost a year since the London bombings struck 3 subways and a bus. According to a recent survey by the Times of London 13% of British Muslims believed the 4 July 7 bombers are "martyrs." Nothing disgusts me more than hearing such ignorant, hateful and inhuman views by (most of the time) Muslims or Arabs. How inhuman do we have to get to prove our dedication to Islam? or Arab nationalism for that matter?

A colleague of mine asked me "how can you not feel strongly about the killings of Palestinians?" I replied "I feel horrible about the atrocities that are committed worldwide, and my feelings when a Palestinian is killed is just the same as an Israeli teenager's body being torn to pieces by a suicide bomber falsely labeled as a "freedom fighter."" With shock and disappointment, he said "Where is your Arab nationalism?" I explained to him I don't believe in Arab nationalism, it never succeeded and it's never gonna happen. BeforeI label myself Arab, Muslim, Kuwaiti, or Female, labels that mean NOTHING, I am human. In the wise words of Her Highness Madonna on MTV's TRL "I consider myself a humanist."

2005 was a bad year, London bombings, Rafiq Al Hariri assassination (the best Arab public figure the Middle East ever had), the series of Lebanese assassinations and assassination attempts, the continuous terrorist attacks in Isreal and Iraq. I don't want to witness another episode of shock and awe, I don't want to cry over the loss of Al-Hariri, the hatred in 9/11 and the destruction of Madrid. Aggression is aggression, so whether or not you agree with the cause of the picture above, it will move you some how, the way it moved me. For the sake of sounding like a contestant in an American Beauty Pageant "...and world peace!"

On a non related issue:

الجمعة 7/7
8:30 م
ساحة الإرادة
تجمع بمشاركة النواب لحكومة وطنية دون عناصر الفساد...و هم نبيها 5

The Day I Saw Myself in the Eyes of Democracy

2006-07-01T07:43:00.000+03:00

Ma gidart anam...gemt ilsa3a 7 o ne6art ommy teg3ad min ilnoom. Wesalna ilmadresa..7asait butterflies in my stomach, the second I walked into that room, I felt it was a dream, I don't remember how many people were there, what they looked like, what the room looked like, I just remember a feeling...a feeling I can't even describe, I had to read the ballot twice to identify the names. I did it...

Ladies: We did it! Although disappointed with the 35% female voter turnout (amongst election results) it made me appreciate the ladies that I met in line, the older woman who was rambling out loud "Walla ana maly ib hal sowalif bs bassawet 3alashan 3yaaly!" and the women cheering her, the young ladies that I worked with until the polls closed, and my girl friends who knew nothing about elections and couldn't give a damn about politics, yet exercised their right in the blazing heat, and finally my mother, who's participation not only mattered to Kuwait but it meant a lot to me :)

18 seats for the Islamists... and we lost Al Nebari o Al Haroun, the most important men in Kuwaiti politics are now gone. Basil Al Rashid down by 23 votes, shay ebachy. This country won't know what's good for it if it hit them straight in the face. Magool illa hal netayej are a reflection of our ignorant society.

A Time to Give Back...VOTE

2006-06-28T13:10:00.000+03:00

Ladies... a few more hours, and you will be making history. I urge you to participate in our democratic process tomorrow Thursday June 29th, 2006. We all have a vision of Kuwait, o e7na ilshabab 3indina nafs il ro'ya, naby ilkuwait illy robaina feeha.

Ya shabab! The events of the past few months have proven that we are not the future of the country anymore, we are the present! We can make change, we have and we will continue our efforts.

Mino illy ya7meeeha...mino illy yahdeeeha..mino illy yra3eeeha...mino illy yafdeeha? E7naaa E7na!! E7naaaa E7na...killina e7na..killina e7na...Baladna, baladna liKuwait liKuwaaaaiit!

I know that you will not let me down. We are all restricted to our own districts, some very few good choices, some with more than 2, so I am urging every one of you shabab in every district in Kuwait to vote for illy ya7meeha, yahdeeha, yra3eeha willy yafdeeha.

June 29th is a time to give back a fraction of what it had been giving us.. inqadimlich a7la hadiya ya a7la Kuwait.

Update: Now that's all shot to shit.

Falling Apart

2006-06-25T11:32:00.000+03:00

Maly khilg a3sser mokhy le'anna oho already ma3ssoor. So, I'm just gonna at7al6am. Feel free to ignore.

Yesterday was hectic, an unprepared for hectic day. Long day at work, a very long, concentration-required, work-related phonecall during my lunch 30 mins. In which I realized right before I went to bed last night that I forgot to mention the most important issues in our discussion and therefore I probably didn't really get my point accross, what a waste.

Workshop that I had been organizing in which most people decided to show up an hour/hour and a half late (3ady dasheen 3ogob sa3a chinna ma sawaw shay!!) Hung around with the instructor to evaluate, rushed back home, changed (haven't ikshikh'd in a while) but I was invited to a dinner in the honor of my recently engaged friend, which was probably a bad idea to attend cuz I just sat there like a vegetable, but she is a close friend so .. food was good... kint yo3ana.. I even forget to eat. I forget to call back my parents. My friend gave birth like 10 days ago (or something like that) still haven't called her, have been wanting to send her flowers, haven't gotten to that yet...I'll call to send flowers now and then call and visit her when elections are over :(

I need a personal assistant. How hard is it to find one here? And am I too young to have one? Perhaps one of those college freshman girls who are dedicated and are always looking for something to do when theyre not studying, polite, helpful, remind u to eat, find everything that comes out of ur mouth to be interesting... perhaps flyers on campuses? A summer intern? And then if she's really good can get hired for the rest of the year... aaah :) Jessica Simpson ain't got nothin' on me!

Aby old school ice cream.. the one with the bubble gum at the bottom, ya.

The image above is the cover of a book "The Second Assistant" about a girl with a Political Science degree who went from working in Washington DC to the Hollywood industry. Thought it would be an easy, fun read for me when I had my operation done a few months ago, but it wasn't that great and it just put me to sleep, or was it the anesthesia? Anyway, I don't recommend but I figured the cover describes my future assistant.

2 Kool 4 Skool

2006-06-24T09:23:00.000+03:00

Definately not a relaxing weekend..but most definately fruitful.

Wednesday: Bring 'em On
A lady in our district invited one of the liberal candidates to her residence for an open discussion with her family and friends. I'm so sick of candidates bashing others, the government and the system!! OK! Fahamna! O ba3dain? Wel 7al?? Hardly any candidate proposes a solution in his agenda (I say his because most female candidates have proposed their agendas). Te3alemaw min the West!! The candidate gets out there with his issues, expresses where he stands on those issues and proposes studied solutions. Anyway...it was an interesting discussion because we got a chance to speak about real issues that can actually be improved, impose new laws, create awareness, such as gender discrimination in the workforce, signing on to environmental treaties, etc. Bs 6ab3an ppl think they're so smart when they ask "ilmostashfa ilflaniya waskha! o ildiktor sawa 3amaliya mo naj7a o kan byethba7 ilmareetha.." Ok I'm sorry for your friend and I'm absolutely repulsed by such terrible facts about our sorry excuse for a system..bs please know who to blame for this, wain wizarat ilsa7a? mafee medical board that monitors these cases?? Know what your MP is capable of, understand their capacity so that you and him/her can acheive better results on your issues.

Thursday: Playing Instructor
A friend of mine and a colleague is a volunteer in INJAZ Kuwait: Junior Achievement who were preparing for the INJAZ Kuwait competition held on Friday between all participating schools. Although I'm not blessed with a business mind, I am an advocate of raising the youth to become more powerful leaders, and I think our obsolete education system lacks key principles in preparing our children for the real world. Anyway, this friend's class, a boys government school who are so hard working but lack organization and public speaking skills. So I told him to bring them on to the office to have our trainer give them a workshop on public speaking, we alternated between me and him, since he's American and they're english is less than perfect. They were rusty at first, had no skills whatsoever in terms of presentations, creativity, confidence, etc. By the 6th hour of the workshop we had addressed all their issues, and all they had to do was practice. Mashalla 3alaihom, even after a 6 hour workshop they were still motivated to work more! They ended up practicing til 4 am!!

Friday: Day of the competition
Thought it would be my day off, but had to go see my kids present, and I promised them I'd wear their T-shirt. So I got there, went around the booths and spoke to the students; there was a powerful feeling of motivation, enthusiasm and determination in those highschoolers' eyes and voices. 6ab3an the American school kids were the only ones in formal gear, gave one hell of a powerful presentation, polite, and confident. This is what the American system teaches you: M.U.N, summers abroad, debate classes and more. In my eyes, they were all winners, they all worked hard, overcame fears and obstacles, and somewhere along the way found themselves.

As I was sitting looking at them interacting, I had the urge to tell them to enjoy their time together, to cherish these friendships they have built along these years, because sooner than they know it they will be seperated and look back at the most beautiful memories they took for granted.

That was my weekend folks, stay tuned for an eventful week ahead...and maybe, just maybe by next week..I'll be doing something for fun!

Adrenaline Rush 2006

2006-06-16T13:55:00.000+03:00

Heated elections...
Full-time job...
World Cup fever...
Personal life...
Family feud...
Social obligations...

No drug can beat this adrenaline rush !

The Devil Wears Prada

2006-06-06T10:29:00.000+03:00

For those of you who don't know me, I don't read fiction. I mainly read non-fiction books on current affairs etc. But a couple of years ago after I decided to read Candace Bushnell's original book Sex and the City, I started getting into fun, hip, fiction books that are always an easy read, I found they helped me get my mind off personal problems, world problems and work! I mean having Al Arabiya and BBC World on all day at home, as well as reading the newspapers everyday is more than enough. Although it is of my greatest interests and is a priority, sometimes you just need a break from this save the world crap!! So as I was shopping one last time at Barnes & Noble, stocking up on books before moving back to Kuwait, I came accross a best seller called The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger, a book about a girl fresh out of college working as an assistant to the most powerful woman in NYC, fashion magazine editor Miranda Priestly. It has been suggested that in this book, Weisberger was dishing about her days working for Vogue editor Anna Wintour. This book is witty, funny, trendy, and a must read for all you fellow fashion junkie, I heart NY ladies out there (and gentlemen with a flavor for style).

Now the best part is ... it was made into a movie!! OK so I have been soooo out of the loop but I just read an article in the Herald Trib. that renowned stylist and former costume designer for the gals on the set of Sex and the City Patricia Field has been working on the costume design for the Meryl Streep's upcoming movie The Devil Wears Prada. It'll be out in U.S movie theatres June 30th, check out the trailer http://www.devilwearspradamovie.com/

And if Patricia Field is taking care of the characters on the set of TDWP then it's definately worth checking out. She has without a doubt created a style icon of SJP in Sex and the City, stepping outside the box in terms of style innovation.

Field's entire fashion life might have been a preparation for the eclectic and whimsical Carrie Bradshaw character in "Sex and the City." Field created mad mixes of vintage and contemporary, of shorts, ladylike coats and romantic dresses. She also whipped up a passion for accessories, from chain identity necklaces through horse-head bags and Manolo Blahnik shoes.
"'Sex and the City' changed the way women dress," Field says. "I helped to empower women." (www.iht.com)

You sure did Pat, can't wait to see you work your magic again.

Brain Dead

2006-06-05T13:36:00.000+03:00

OK so in between my crazy schedule, I decided to splurge online but didn't even have time to browse, so I figured I'll just buy what I need real quick one of this season's must-haves: white jeans.
J Brand, my favorite skinny designer jeans was my choice. Chose my size, click click click.. continued getting ready to go to a nadwa..click click ... put on my head band...answer my phone... slip on my Jimmy Choo's ..blah blah... blur blur.... I seriously don't remember. So, the following night after returning home early from exhaustion, I'm in my bed with my laptop on my lap, I decide to buy a pair of white jeans.. J Brand ... click click click... DONE! Check my email... 2 order confirmations..

Ooops! I bought the same item twice, 2 days wara ba3ath!!

Whoever said marijuana kills brain cells has never done social work.

`Nuff Said

2006-05-31T09:59:00.001+03:00

You Belong in New York City

You're an energetic, ambitious woman.
And only NYC is fast enough for you.
Maybe you'll set yourself up with a killer career
Or simply take in all the city has to offer.

What City Do You Belong In?

*sigh*

Madness

2006-05-31T08:22:00.000+03:00

This is madness!! My job, my 2nd job, my friends (who I never see anymore), my family (who I never see period!), elections...and shopping!! Channel E! I've been so out of the fashion/celebrity loop the past week...It all started when...................

A group of determined young Kuwaitis decided to speak out about the political situation,
The government didn't have the balls to deal with it so they dissolved the Parliament,
Thinking that would shut the OrangieZ down,
It's only making them work harder.

A very well known organization and a group of experts and consultants on female participation in elections were creating a program in Kuwait for what was thought as 2007 elections, but given the retarded decision that has been made, they're having to move fast in implementing the program and need some local help...yes, I'm the local help. As a local consultant I have to fulfill 4 hours at their office, or just get as much work done as needed for them in research, coordination and consultation.

I have been asked to help out in 2 campaigns for the female committees, said I will try my best, and I definately want to help out as much as I can but I would like to dedicate my precious time to my constituency and of course my obligation as a female cadidate consultant. 2 of my fave candidates are running in my constituency, and one of my girlfriends (a neighbor too) decided that we see if we can help them out (as they are the only 2 in the constituency who reflect our views), so we'll see about that.

I had a hectic day yesterday but I had a little talk with the American senior consultant (who is a big shot in DC, worked as Hilary Clinton's campaign consultant) who made my day by saying "all eyes are on Kuwait. With the evolution of the political situation in your country, and the strong voice of your youth groups...there isn't a better time to be you."

I left their office (or shall I say my temporary one) at 8, had to pass by a friend who had had an operation, got back home at 10 and hit the sac!

The past 3 years in Kuwait have been filled with career disappointments, after being perceived as the "Kuwaiti girl who is going places" in college, I became the Kuwaiti girl who was denied such places, for many reasons: gender discrimination, failure to appreciate a graduate degree, and lack of appreciation for previous experience from different countries. New blood, blah! Ambition, blah! Who cares? Of course such institutions wouldn't notice a good thing even if it hit them right in the face. I came to terms that in Kuwait, I can't make a career out of the things I am passionate about, and although I am not where I thought I would be, I can try and try to make the best out of my existence in this world.

A little over a year ago, I wanted to leave, applied for a couple of jobs in DC and NYC and was stressing about how I was going to make the transition and the announcement to my parents. They knew it, they knew how stressed and depressed I was, an active girl being brushed off because of her gender and age and lack of faith in this society, lead to a passive, depressed girl who remained at the age of 24 a dreamer. They booked me a trip to NYC, they knew how much I missed my independence, and I took their offer. I had a blast, but faced a dilemma: all my friends in the City had moved on to bigger and better things and I realized I don't live there anymore. There was a huge essence of familiarity but little sense of belonging. I returned to Kuwait only to be taken by the women's rights movement...and that's when I dived right back into action.

I have to admit with all the stress, pressure and fatigue that comes from this madness, I sleep at night knowing that I am accomplishing something...and whether I get rewarded or not... well... that's for me to decide.

Democracy in the Middle East: Creating a Monster?

2006-05-24T10:55:00.000+03:00

As much as I'm so proud of my fellow Nabeeha 5 members and the work everyone has put in to make the movement as successful as it has been, as much as I felt...actually, I believe that anything successful and public in the Arab political field may breed negative reactions (amongst other positive ones of course). I had a feeling this would happen:

Following the footsteps of Egypt's opposition movement "Kefaya" (more like following the Nabeeha 5 innitative) which peacefully opposes the current Egyptian regime, a group of Kuwaiti youth in Jahra established a new opposition movement, the Kuwaiti Kefaya Movement...the objective of the movement is not to oppose the Kuwaiti regime, but rather, to fight corruption committed by certain members of both the Cabinet and Parliament.
The Daily Star

This may seem promising, more youth are taking non-violent actions at attempts to solve problems peacefully rather than create ones violently, as we have seen regarding terrorism in the Middle East the past few years. However, a member of the movement explained to The Daily Star that "the majority of citizens suffer due to the corruption." Yes, there is corruption, but I don't believe that the majority of Kuwaitis suffer from it, in comparison to other Arab countries, our lifestyle in Kuwait is stable with many benefits provided by the regime for us. We must first appreciate what we have, before addressing what we don't.

I am glad the youth are getting more involved and awareness is increasing in terms of social and political issues amongst the youth, but I am worried that such a movement may lead to another and another, and we will end up in a mess. Hope all goes well and I salute everyone who stands for what they believe in, but we must remember one thing: democracy is a shared value, my freedom is of others and others' freedoms are of mine. When practicing democracy one must keep in mind others and practice it in a responsible manner, because at the end of the day we are all fighting for the same cause, a better country for our fellow citizens, for our children.

On a doggy note. I took my puppy to the vet yesterday to get groomed, and bought him the cutest stuff from the pet shop (International Veterinary Hospital: they're the best!) I bought him a World Cup t-shirt cuz he likes soccer and 'tis the season; and I also bought him shoes!! I can't get him to keep them on though! Paris? How does Tinkerbell do it?

2006: Year of Change

2006-05-23T10:07:00.000+03:00

So the people spoke. The young generation raised important issues and pulled the older ones in the action. And thats a bump in the road for the government, because how could people peacefully demostrate about an issue they believe in? They thought these views were limited to diwaniyas and liberal newspapers, not to a generation of motivated, determined, active people who want their voices to be heard. Isn't this democracy?? Yes!! It sure the hell is!! Democracy is not having a parliament for decades with no women! Democracy is not a pretty face you brag about in the region and to the West! Democracy is a lifestyle, it's practiced, and it was practiced by young Kuwaitis during the past 4 weeks. Whether the public agrees with the issue or not, the people spoke, and let me tell you something...it was beautiful.

On a different note, 8 women are running for Parliament. I gotta admit I was surprised, cuz one of the things that was bothering about dissolving the Parliament is that many women are not ready for these elections. But 8 women have already declared their Campaign 2006. Don't know if any of them will win, most of them have great political potential, others are just pictures in glossy magazines, and 1 who is backed by the Muslim Brotherhood, well..let's stay away from those.

Speaking of staying away, this whole parliament dissolving deal is really affecting me cuz during the Nabeeha 5 movement, as much as I was enjoying it and working on it with a passion, I couldn't wait until it was over cuz I'm very behind on my other love: shopping! I was really looking forward to going back and living the simple life with less meetings and more friends, shopping and R&R. Until the elections are over I won't be completely free to shop, get my nails done, hair, etc. Aaahhh...I miss the days when my agenda had things like 4:00 - Nails, 7:30 - Facial... Now it's like MEETING MEETING MEETING MEETING!! I know I know I'm an online shopping freak and it's so easy blah blah, but believe me with all the stress, phonecalls and planning, there's no time to pop my vitamins! I'm on my break and as I'm blogging I'm buying these ever so cute tops for the summer... I shouldn't be doing this I already owe Neiman Marcus and Saks a @$# load of money! Anyway.. real quick, I went to a reunion of my highschool class...haven't seen most of them in about 10 years, and we picked up right where we left off...love you guys, nothing will every compare to the memories we share.

Night of Determination: 2

2006-05-17T09:47:00.000+03:00

For once, I'm speechless. I really don't know what to say about last night Tuesday May 16th, 2006. The critic in me has disappeared!

One year ago, I was striving with other women and men for my political rights, and at 6:30 pm May 16th, 2005 I was content, and I said to myself I have never felt as Kuwaiti as I have the day I got my rights. History repeats itself...May 16th, 2006, I say: I have never felt as Kuwaiti as I have tonight.

The day I was supposed to celebrate my political rights anniversary, I celebrated it on the streets as a Kuwaiti citizen! Equal to those around me! Equal to those MPs speaking! Equal to Qa'imat Al I'itilafiyah carrying their banners at the Night of Determination 2 !! I felt alive, I felt equal, I felt valuable, I felt Kuwaiti.

To be honest with you (you'd understand after reading my previous post) I'm so used to attending or organizing such events for the past year with the same crowd of phenomenal young people which I have grown to be friends with over the past year. So, I wasn't expecting anything different. I was wrong. I have failed to realize before last night that we have finally reached other people, I have failed to realize that it is possible to be standing next to someone 180 degrees different than myself fighting for the same cause is not just in my dreams, it has become a reality.

Speakers were great, their words were motivational, and touched every person in the crowd. It was inspiring to hear older personalities in established positions support the youth, and all Kuwaiti citizens in a simple, informal environment.

The past year has been our journey to democracy. Thanks to those who made it happen: Night of Determination was a Night of Inspiration.

Night of Determination

2006-05-15T16:35:00.000+03:00

Well, I was determined to bring everyone I know, but not even my best friends would come join us in our solidarity. Did I mention these friends were girls? Girls!! Seriously, I'm interested in fashion and watching Channel E! too but come on, you can have other interests, it's dooable! Read newspapers in the morning, flip through your fashion mags, gossip, go to the gym, learn Mandarin, attend cultural, political, social events! Broaden your horizens! (OK don't get me started on people who have been going to London for years and only know Oxford St. and Knightsbridge!) Yet, my wonderful guy friends showed up, and just like us all Kuwaitis commented, critisized, mocked and expressed disappointment.. aaaaaaahhh when are we going to start appreciating activism folks? Even if there is one person walking the streets, creating awareness of an issue someone truly believes in is something which should be respected! Not mocked!

I got to the i3tissam at about 6:35 and was surprised, not at the small number of people (cuz I thought I was late) but at the number of families present enjoying their time as well as expressing their stance. Little kids in huge Nabeeha 5 t-shirts, elderly sitting on the chairs that have been kindly placed (ya36eekom alf 3afya shabab) and everyone in the middle people from all ages were there.

I have to admit, I too was disappointed with the relatively low turnout. The organizers worked extremely hard and went all out to the smallest details, from the t-shirts to the flags, and the mural to the music. God! The music!! Took me back straight to my childhood, when everything was smooth, simple and carefree. Funny how the sound of music can bring back not only memories but a feeling, a feeling that your soul has been carrying for decades, locked and completely forgotten, but it only takes a few notes to ignite it.

A few hours later, the crowd started to get bigger, and bigger...

Speakers? Oh, not a dull moment with them all from the youngest most anonymous to the renowned, well-respected personalities. For those of you who know me, I'm all about freedom of expression, however, as a minority group labeled as "liberals" and "young" (labels that have been following us since we started being activists) we need public speeches to show maturity, respect, motivation and substance, to become respected by more factions and not look like we're "enemies of the state." A couple of speeches bothered me, ME!! The girl whose opinions friends and family refer to as "min7arfa!" But guys, there is a fine line between bold and disrespectful, cheap shots; and what has to be taken into consideration is our situation in the social and political arena, we're young, our methods are new in terms of our culture and we have to take baby steps to win them over, and eventually join forces. Disrespectful, harsh remarks like the ones were made, is just 1 point down for us.

As optimistic I am about creating awareness and practicing a democratic lifestyle, as much as I wish that we're not just pictures in newspapers to the public, faces that are limited to certain backgrounds and social status. I know it's not our fault but after every event I attend, I can't help but hope that the crowd evolves into unfamiliar faces.

Speaches kept getting better, the atmosphere was patriotic, peaceful (insert image of children holding flags), fun and full of soul. I missed the 29 MPs who came in around midnight right after their meeting so I can't report what that was like except what I had been told is that it was beautiful, meaningful and full of emotions, a perfect act of support for a young group of activists...a perfect end to a great night.

Naomi Watts: UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador

2006-05-14T10:15:00.000+03:00

Australian actress Naomi Watts, who is known for her hollywood glamour and simplicity on the red carpet has been nominated as UN special representative to raise awareness of Aids and HIV worldwide.

There are about 40 million reported cases of HIV, the virus that can lead to Aids. Unfortunately, there are strong misconceptions of this virus in which it is ignorantly looked at as taboo. Yes, HIV and Aids are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) but their infection can be in other forms such as unsanitary needles (mainly found in poor parts of the world) and may infect different people, heterosexual men and women of all ages including children.

Since UN Secretary General Kofi Anan was appointed he has concentrated his efforts and budget in Africa, and strengthened Aids programs in a region with the highest HIV/Aids rates: 60% of people in Sub-Saharan Africa are infected with HIV. During the 2001 UN Millenium Summit in Johannesburg, HIV/Aids was on the top Millenium Development Goals to halt and reverse the spread of this virus by 2015.

There is a growing phenomena of celebrities using their celebrity status to create awareness on humanitarian issues by becoming UN Special Representatives, other celebrities include Nicole Kidman as UNIFEM Ambassador promoting womens' issues, and Angelina Jolie as UN "goodwill" ambassador to UNHCR: UN High Commission for Refugees. (Note: home-wrecker and husband stealer do not count as goodwill!!)

Good Luck Naomi! There's 18 more days until the 2006 High Level Meeting on AIDS at UN headquarters in the world's fashion capital: NYC! Hope you keep up that fabulous 2004 Oscars, Versace image we still have of you.

Arab Youth: Creating a Revolution...

2006-05-14T09:45:00.000+03:00

Never have the streets of the Middle East witnessed so much civil involvement, protests, expressing opinions, voices being heard, and for once an attempt at a civilized, democratic lifestyle. Finally!! People are standing up against their oppressive governments and fighting to have a say in the way their country is run. From Beirut to Egypt, from women's rights to 5 constituencies, from "us" to "them."

Join our active youth, men and women, family and friends, fellow citizens, and anyone who loves this country. Solidarity in front of the Parliament, wear orange, voice your choice and be there tonight at 6:00pm: The Night of Determination.

Although I don't believe we live in a culture/region that knows much about democracy, tolerence and non-violent expression, this is your chance to embrace freedom of speech. Let's show the world democracy can work in the Middle East and we will be the ones to practice it.

World of Contradictions

2006-05-13T20:21:00.000+03:00

Globalization... funny how it works. One click of a button and your words are shared worldwide. I've only recently started reading blogs, people from all over the globe voicing their opinions on controversial issues, revealing secrets from their personal lives, celebrity gossip, and some blogs are about...well...nothing!! Just plain old entertainment!

I have the biggest mouth when it comes to voicing my opinions so I thought to myself...why not share these views with the world. This blog will discuss a variety of issues in 2 areas that are near and dear to my heart: Current Affairs & Fashion.

So World...Welcome to my life ;)