Afghans and Pictures

Afghans love to have their pictures taken--as long as you give them a copy. When I took the picture of the men in the dining room the other night, they asked for a copy. I made them a copy and gave them one each. They were so happy and proud. Yesterday, I asked the three women that clean and stock my house if I could take their picture. A little background: these three women work long, hard hours cleaning our entire camp (inside only; outside is men's work). They rarely smile and just go about their work. I try to make a point of smiling to all of the staff, wishing them a good day, and giving them a wave. When I asked if it was alright if I took their picture (through the woman in the blue in the middle; she speaks English, but doesn't ever let on that she does), they all three stood up straight and tall, adjusted their head scarves, and SMILED. They sat patiently outside of my room/office while their pictures were printed out. They were so proud. I was impressed that through all of the strife that they have seen and lived through, they still had the pride to look good for the photo.