Eid Muborak

December 8, 2008

There is a celebration going on right now for the end of the Muslim Ramadan. It's called Eid Muborak or Tabaski--the sacrifice of the lamb. Everyone is dressed up in their best clothes and walking to each of their relatives houses to visit. It's fun to see all the people and especially the kids all decked out.

I am invited to eat with some of the local doctors the meal they have prepared with their sacrificed animal. The way they eat is everyone from the same big bowl or platter, using your *right* hand only. I am left-handed and timid. But it is hugely generous of them to share their best food with me. I feel honored.

Some of the patients are going home today. They have all had major surgeries like hysterectomies and prolapse repair. Very often they walk home or get on a motorcycle to go home after just a short recovery period.