Pictures just in from Miss World Pageant

[DarrellP]

Miss USA and Miss Afghanistan:

[Nick]

Sorry, but this is not humorous to me.

Why am I saddened by these pics being shown side-by-side? Which one on these women would I want to sit down and talk with? To listen to their story?

One says "Look at me. Aren't I beautiful?", the other says "Don't look at me. I'm afraid I'll be beaten ...or worse."

Two different worlds, but yet sisters all the same. Both are slaves to their respective cultures and customs. Somewhere between the two extremes of dress lies freedom for both of these women.

Suddenly, I realize a feeling of sadness has come over me.

[Unthinkable]

Cheer up Nick. Miss USA is bringing over some cold ones and a few of her good friends to warm things up a bit.

[Nick]

Yes, they have arrived and life good.

Still the plight of the woman of the burka weighs heavily upon my heart.