First, I know the family worried about my safety in Pakistan. I never felt threatened or unsafe the entire time. Pakistani’s are extremely hospitable and love having guests. This hospitality can get them in trouble at times too. As my friend put it, if Osama bin Laden is in Pakistan then they will not give him up because he is their guest. Also, if I am in Pakistan and Afghanistan says they want me the Pakistani’s would not give me up. This idea seems quite ingrained in their culture and it’s lovely to experience their warmth.

As in many religions and cultures there are extremists. The Muslims I talked with in Pakistan don’t consider al-Qaida to be Muslim at all. They don’t believe in killing humans and don’t believe in groups like this who only act out of selfishness. In fact, my new friends would all like to visit the United States. Narrow-minded Americans still negatively label entire groups and religions so I wanted to bring you this news from Pakistan soil direct from a Pakistani’s mouth. Just so you know, Islam isn’t evil - people are.

I wasn’t supposed to leave the hotel so most of my extra time was spent in a downstairs rug shop talking with the 2 men who ran it. For hours we would drink green tea and discuss life, family, relationships, religion, politics, rugs and just about anything else you can think of. These types of experiences on my trips are the most fulfilling.

Ok, don’t tell my colleagues, but I snuck out for a short car ride. I ended up buying two rugs from my friends and got some cash from an ATM to help save them credit card fees. I figured it would be my only chance to see a bit of the city. Some government buildings and regular shops lined the long road we drove. I’m told that the beautiful areas of Pakistan lie in the north with the more simple living people. Hopefully, one day I can take the time to visit.