Sunday, August 25, 2002

More words from the people of Afghanistan and how they feel about the US war to oust the Taliban. Rather than people far from the scene with an Agenda I think it best to listen to those most affected.

Under the reconstruction project, which is already under way, a new 12-foot dome will be built over the shrine and white marble will be laid on its floors. The village's rebuilt mosque is to have 16-foot ceilings and a minaret, and there will be landscaped waterfalls and manicured flower gardens. Guesthouses for the pilgrims who come from afar to visit the shrine will also be put up.

``There was a lot of propaganda that the Americans just wanted to destroy Islam,'' said Abdul Mohammed, the engineer who is in charge of the 10-month project. ``But this is a joint venture between America and Afghanistan that shows Americans respect our religion.''

Villagers say they don't blame the United States too much for the devastation of the bombing. During the 10-year Soviet occupation of Afghanistan, which lasted until 1989, Khak Raiz was bombed 33 times. ``This was a part of war,'' said Noor Mohammed, 38, who brought his 10-member family Friday on their weekly outing to the shrine. ``All sides did bad things. But at least now we have peace and stability.''

That sentiment was echoed by other pilgrims who came to pray at the shrine. ``In 15 years, I've visited this shrine only once. Why? Because of lack of security. In the last two months, I've been out here four times,'' said Ubaidullah, 45, who walks with crutches because he was beaten badly by Taliban militiamen during their regime. ``Americans have given us that security. Now we are waiting for their development work.''

Where once there was no hope, people now can imagine a day when they can live in peace and free from fear and violence.

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