I admit that I was appalled to read Joan Cooney’s statement about Sec. of State Clinton’s wearing a head covering in Ramallah. I honestly thought Ms. Cooney was better informed and more sensitive to cultural mores than that.

One reason that citizens of other countries often resent Americans is because of the hubris and insulting behavior shown by some of us as travellers. (These are often the very same Americans who scorn visitors and immigrants to the U.S. who don’t speak English.) Ms. Clinton had a mission in Ramallah and it didn’t include disregarding the customs of that culture. Obviously she did her homework and chose to show respect. Not to do so would have immediately created a barrier that could have sabotaged her visit. Shouldn’t she be applauded for acknowledging the customs of those with whom she was in discussion?

All you have to remember, Frank, is the source from which Liz and her husband have made their mammoth incomes. Then her position makes perfect sense (to her, that is).

Mo

p.s. How are you?

Dear Chloe -  I’m sure you’re familiar with the term "Reverse Culture Shock" and I suspect you are experiencing it. When I got back to the States after a two year Peace Corps Volunteer assignment, I couldn’t seem to find my bearings. For one thing, I was overwhelmed by all the "stuff" in stores; even the supermarket seemed to have too many choices. There was too much noise and too much traffic; too many people carried purses, shopping bags and umbrellas (thank God cell phones wasn’t available then!) and television seemed to be everywhere. It was sensory overload and it lasted for almost a year. Going from one vastly different culture to another, even if it’s back to your "home culture", takes time. I hope you’ll be gentle with yourself and take this opportunity to document your experiences in Ethiopia. I can assure you that the details of those memories will be important to years from now. Spend hours with those who love you and want to hear about your life there. Get reacquainted with your city and your surroundings by exploring…especially those neighborhoods where English is not the predominate language. Breathe in the scents.  Years ago, I had the privilege of meeting a young Ethiopian pilot who spent 9 months training with an airline in San Diego. He was homesick so he opened a tiny restaurant where he cooked 15 Ethiopian dinners each night. That was it. First come, first served. There was always a line outside at least an hour before he opened, and he made good friends.  If you have time, volunteer for an organization you believe in and where you have real people contact; it will help as you readjust. Remember that ESL teachers are always needed. I am confident that you will recognize your next step when it appears because you are bright and aware and open to new adventures. Best of luck to you.

Time will tell about Hillary’s influence as Sec. of State. I have high expectations for her - she is such a bright woman. But her response in this single, non-threatening situation told me that being President and having to field all the anger and prejudice accusations that Obama is now dealing with would probably have done her in.

Yes, the cancer has spread. It’s awful, but she is incredibly courageous…fights through the pain, the chemo, radiation…all of it. Thank you for your thoughts. And the affection goes both ways. Mo

Hi Phyllis -  so good to read your always eloquent postings. I’m fne, dealing with some very serious family health problems, but otherwise OK. I do understand what you mean about Sec. Albright - she was strong and took a great deal of criticism, but I don’t think she ever disliked her job. In fact, even though her approach was often controversial, I always got the feeling that she enjoyed the challenges and the people she interfaced with. Sec. Clinton just looks to me as if this job is very hard on her. She’s extremely defensive and abrupt. Speaks of someone not secure with her role. At least, not yet. There were many other ways she could have responded to the "Bill" question - laughing it off, bending over backward to praise his efforts, explaining that they have very separate roles in government- but she displayed a real insecurity, I thought, remiscent of Bush’s "I’m the decider" remark which really betrayed that he was anything but. I have a great deal of respect and admiration for Sec. Clinton. I know she’s a workacholic and that she has all the qualifications to be an outstanding SoS, but I hope she’ll chill out a little and "own" the job instead of trying to defend herself.  Just my musings. Take care -it’s good to connect with you.  Mo

Dear Jane - As a "well-socialized" introvert, I can so relate to your difficulty in sharing your feelings openly. It’s hard. I’ve been walking the razor’s edge on that one all my life. But, truly, seeing delight in the eyes of someone who is on the receiving end of an expression of honest affection makes it worth the effort. Little acts of love. Little gestures of kindness. They are what mean so much to me, and they are what I’m trying to give. I love you for your honesty.

xx oo Mo