I’ve been thinking a lot about the constant traumatization and re-traumatization of women in Pakistan every time we see one of our own experience an act of violence. It eats up our mental and emotional energy like a monster with a never-ending appetite. It leaves us feeling depleted and exhausted. It takes away from time and energy we could have spent enriching our lives in some way. Instead, we grieve. And we cry. And we turn inwards. And we fear. We fall asleep at night with a heavy heart, and we wake up hurting the next morning. It’s unfair and infuriating.

Holding all my fellow sisters who are burdened by living in a violent patriarchal society close to my heart today and always. We deserve better.