Revolution

Last night, the egyptian (in a good mood) and I sat and watched the streaming of live video from CNN for hours. If you have been living under a rock, or never watch the news (shame on you!) Egypt is in the middle of a revolution.

We sat in awe and wonder as we talked about reform. Everytime they interviewed someone from Egypt (that was in some way or the other "important") - I would ask, "Hey, is he a good guy?" The egyptian would reply, "Honestly, I don't know."

One of the things that is happening is that very powerful ex-pat Egyptians are heading home. That can be scary. Are they waiting their turn to take control. If so, what does that mean?

As for his family, they live in Alexandria. Now don't be fooled, Alex may be just 2 hours north of Cairo, but rioting, protesting, and other items are taking place in pockets all over the country. Alex is no different. On the first full day of protests, 36 people died in Alexandria.

His mom is to remain locked in the house. All women and children are not allowed to leave their homes. Most people there, just like here, live off cell phones and the internet. Both have been disabled. The military told the citizens to protect themselves. So, the young men in the apartment buildings are taking turns standing guard outside of their buildings. Guns are illegal. One of our friend's is actually standing in front of his apartment with a paring knife.

I was always anti-gun. Seriously. In my head, get rid of guns - there would be less violence. I realize that's a little Polly Anna. However, I got to thinking.. what if some group revolted here (say, the Tea Party folks) and violence erupted and it was anarchy. (Exactly what is happening in Egypt.) All I have is a bread and butcher knife for protection.

Crazy.

As the week winds up, and no change has occured in Egypt - there will be more blood loss. The citizens are unable to get food. There is a 3pm curfew. Businesses are shut down, if not burned out and looted.

It's mass chaos.

Please keep my in laws in your prayers. Some of my dearest friends live there also. These people have been a part of my life for almost 5 years. My last trip to Egypt was in 2007. When I go back, if I go back, I want to know things are safe and as close to "normal" as possible.