There's No Place Like Home

Hello, all! Well, I missed posting yesterday in a flurry of eating falafel, more falafel, lamb, more falafel. . . then a concert by Egypt's newest fusion group in Zamalek, a part of Cairo by the Nile.

I've posted a lot about all the wonderful things happening in the country at the moment; the hope and optimism in people's eyes that finally, their country might become something good again. In the words of one taxi driver: 'I just want to be able to live a dignified life'.

In the midst of any big change, there is always an element of struggle. I see it every day here in the mile-long queues for gas canisters; having to drive to ten different bank machines before finding one with any money; the escalation of violence amidst the lack of police presence on the streets. Last night's events -- where over seventy were killed at a football match in the north of the country -- have only served to heighten the unease people already feel.

Living in a constant state of anxiety, with the TV news always blaring the latest list of violence, would be enough to make even the staunchest revolutionary long for stability. After almost two weeks here, I'm longing to return to the relative calm of London. But for Egypt's citizens, this is their home. And they're absolutely determined to make it the best it can be.

I'll see you next Monday, when I'm back in the UK. Have a great weekend!