Insomniac

Dealing with a bit of insomnia right now going into my final work day. At least the power has stayed on, so I’ve been able to pass the time by watching the final round of the Buick Invitational. I must have insomnia if I’m watching a meaningless golf tournament. It was either that or some movie starring Martin Lawrence and Tim Robbins (who knew such a flick existed). Coincidentally, I saw parts of this movie early in the trip while still working on jet lag.

Tiger Woods is starting to take over and the rookies atop the leader board are choking which is keeping me interested. I started thinking about golf announcers and if they ever get sick of coming up with superlatives and praise when talking about Tiger. They sure don’t act like it. I think Jim Nantz just offered his body to Tiger.

My final work day should be a quiet one. Today is Ashora, a Shiite day of atonement and mourning, and is a national holiday. What little I know about this holiday is that it is a day of mourning for a couple of Mohammed’s prophets. At least, that what I have been told. Not too versed on the background of this holiday, so I’ll just leave it at that. I guess if you’re interested, you could hit wikipedia.

Apparently, Shiites celebrate this day by flagellating themselves on the back with some steel rods. This has also historically been a day when there is potential for some revolts and the international community has been put on lockdown. Again, the folks staying at the hotel aren’t thinking twice about it. Everybody said they will just work from the hotel. I think I have been here long enough too, as I am not worried about it at all either. The office is only a couple of blocks away and is in a fairly quiet area, so it should be fine. Plus I need to get online to post this entry, check work email, meet my boss for lunch etc.

I am intrigued by the whole Ashora thing and am curious to see how the local Shiites “celebrate” this day. An Afghan guy here said it wouldn’t be a problem if I were to watch, saying I could blend in pretty easily, but just don’t open my mouth or take any pictures. I may feel comfortable here, but I’ll probably just stay in the office and watch any coverage they have on local TV.

Tiger with a two shot lead with one to play. I guess next I’ll be watching to see if Big Momma and Nook LaLoosh can overcome their cultural differences and successfully pull off a heist.