I often think about what happens to those less fortunate around the world. I wonder the lives of lesbians in countries like Nigeria or Iran. What happens to the lives of women like my partner who was forced to marry as a young girl? What comes of them?
Last year, my partner and I spent traveling. I’m lucky enough to say that some of my questions have been answered. Certainly not to my liking, but nevertheless. I have met many lesbians, in many different countries and cultures.
What I learned the most is that we are all the same, no matter where we are. I was haunted by what happens to straight young girls, the same way as lesbians. These women are living lives composed of loveless marriages, shame, and abuse.
But many are also living lives they envisioned.
For example, one of the countries we visited was Yemen, where I was born and raised (my partner, Sharifa, is from Iraq). I ran into one of my old neighbors. This was a woman I used to play with as a little girl. She loved gold, even as girl. Now, she is the wife of a businessman who abuses her but rewards her with gold each time. She unashamedly told me she stays because of the gold.
And I learned that is okay, too.
When I met my partner many years ago, I was a young woman divorced because I did not satisfy my husband’s sexual appetite. I was happy to get out of that marriage, which, like millions of women in the Muslim countries, was forced upon me. With my partner, I was able to live a more authentic life. She was Arab, however different culture, and was Muslim. But best of all, she was a lesbian!
My relationship with my partner has embarked me on a life I’m so happy I had chosen. We raised children together, immigrated out of the Arab world together, and pretty much helped each other live better lives.
I tell you all these things because it is very easy to forget the hardships of women around the world as we enjoying the warm days of summer. There are many non-governmental organizations all over the world, supporting women lead lives that are more to their liking. I would very much like you to consider in supporting one of these organizations. Trust me, when you do, you will have a better summer I guarantee it!
