Written on 29th January 2011, Alexandria, Egypt
For the first time in my life, I pray so that God would let the sunshine in as soon as possible. I am writing this now while listening to Om Kalthoum. This is the only voice I find soothing at this point.
Egypt is out of security. Police has vanished and chaos is everywhere. Citizens have stood up together to protect their country, belongings, family and friends. My brother is in the street right now. he is among tens of young and old men who have been together in the same neighborhood for years, who might not have met before, yet they have discovered that they have many things in common. They share love for their country, fear over their city and most importantly courage to face the ugly side of humanity.
I wander every now and then inside the house. I keep on watching the door expecting a thug who might come in holding a guy or a stick and who is ready to steal safety from our hearts. Now, a Sheikh from a nearby mosque has made a smart move to calm people down. He started reading Quran via the microphone. Sorry Om Kalthoum, the voice of God is out now and I need to listen and pray.
Back to the domestic preparations. I got out all the knives and broomsticks I could find in the kitchen and got them ready for use. I hid all the jewelry, money and official papers. many scenarios are going on inside my head. I imagine that my brother gets shot. I can visualize a stranger inside our house raping my mother or even myself. Many other obsessions are trying to take control of my head. Please Sheikh, raise your voice and fill our hearts with safety that we know not of for quite a long time. Even before the protests of Fury, a long time ago, Egyptians have forgotten about the meaning of safety and security. For years, there has always been this threat represented by police. On my way to work, I passed everyday by El Raml police station. Everyday, I got the chills by the mere sight of it, due to all the crimes committed against innocent people, that I along with others heard of. Only yesterday, that police station in addition to many others was set on fire. 25th January is Police Day in Egypt. 28th January shall be a festive day in the Egyptian history. On 28th January, police fled from the streets. Police that is supposed to be the symbol of security in any nation was the symbol of terror and injustice in Egypt. Now, it is down and for no reason except for its flaws.
God, I beg you grant us strength, patience and unity. God, I would get on my knees just to see our streets full of life again. God protect Egypt and Egyptians. We are striving to have a life full of dignity, Help us get on the right track.
Pray for Egypt!
