When you look out at the world you see your hands...never your own face.

So, the time to come home gets closer and closer. I can feel it, like an ache when it rains. Its not always there…but when it is its strong. There’s something immediately exciting about being far from family and friends. Its intrigues them, its new to you. Around every corner life remains unpredictable. Its scary and dangerous, exciting and new. Some people you meet you love and others…? Well, eventually, no matter where you go, it becomes familiar, predictable, and to some that’s addicting. I have seen many a men come here, leave families and life behind, and pretend that whats here is real only till they go home. Its kinda like going to Vegas or Spring Break for some. But, I like my reality, my life.

So what once was a shiny silver bracelet which amazed the crowds has now dulled and tarnished and is almost a disgrace. The bracelet is now worn and sometimes jagged, scratching, irritating the skin beneath and everytime you look around you see it. You walk around unable to see your own face, all you see are your hands…and your bracelet.

So its time for my departure from here. That which was once was a land of intriguing sites, sounds, and people is nothing more than the desert that it is. The smiles on peoples faces I used to smile back at, I recognize as fake. The trust I have in those around me slips through my fingers. But the faith I have in myself remains strong because I know, when I come home, I am a better me. Stronger, smarter, more loving and able to be loved…the harsh winds of Kuwait have not destroyed me rather has taken off many of my sharp edges and carved a better person, friend, sister, woman…and the only thing I can think about at night before I fall asleep is…coming back to all of you.