The land faded into green. Seas of tallgrass waved in the wind and beyond, rolling hills foretelling the mountains in the horizon.

The long journey is my own metaphor, an outward quest that is an expression of an inner struggle.

The feeling remained, a lingering reassurance that even in this strange place, my family walks with me.

The people need healing, and time, and I can only pray they will have it. Insha'Allah.

You keep telling yourself what you know. But what do you believe? What do you feel?

If there would ever be a sign telling me that this path of life was the right one for me, that was it.

To value the time, effort, resources and care gifted to us.

Whatever happens in the theatres of politics and war, there have always been teacups, chairs and smiles in Iraq to welcome you.

"I am in way over my head and there is no turning back. I am afraid."

From the rivers of Euphrates and Tigris, through the mountains of Kurdistan, and on.