A Thousand Splendid Suns

I never was good at writing book reports, so I won't even try. But here's a recommendation. This book, Ten Thousand Splendid Suns, by Khaled Hosseini is worth the read. It's not for the faint of heart. It's pretty intense, but in my opinion, not as disturbing as The Kite Runner -- which was also excellent. I have to wonder though, was this second book by the same author less disturbing to me because the first book desensitized me. I don't know. But the history, the insights into people's thoughts and religious beliefs, stretched my thinking emotionally, spiritually and academically. The story centers around Muslims living in Afghanistan during the war torn 1970's, 80's, 90's...up until a few years ago. It describes the plight of women, exposing the harsh realities common to sexist cultures.

As with all "religious" people, some admirably live out a relationship with their God, who sustains them in time of need and is with them in joy and sorrow. But then there are the religious egotists who abuse the faith through heavy handed, cruel, unjust leadership or by blatant hypocrisy. Those are the ones who leave a bad taste in the mouth of would-be believers all over the world. Too bad. To focus on those who abuse in the name of God (hypocrites one and all) is to credit the father of lies. It's a crying shame because for some it leads to an eternity separated from God. We only get this one lifetime to build a relationship with our creator. Don't let the nay-sayers, hypocrites, nor godless ones keep you from knowing God Almighty. He could be the best friend you ever had. If you want.