I was really heartened to read today that there is a beauty contest for victims of landmines called Miss Landmine. Not only does it raise awareness of this dreadful weapon (which costs about $15 but ruins a life in less than a second), but it also means a lot to the women entering it. One woman said she felt she was no longer hiding herself away but was proud to be out there, showing herself off.
Now I read that Cambodia is banning it, calling it an “insult to disabled people”. So what does that make Miss World? An insult to “normal” women? Or women with big breasts and big hair? All this political correctness does my head in. And I don’t think it is particularly constructive any more. If Miss Landmine now doesn’t go ahead then the winner will not get a custom-made prosthetic limb. So who exactly does that help? The PC brigade possibly. But it sure as hell doesn’t help the woman without a leg.
On a lighter note, I went to see our dentist yesterday. He is one of those lovely gentle Indians who talks like he’s in a Merchant Ivory Film. When it was time to X-ray my teeth, he leaned over and asked sotto voce: “Are you in the family way?” I may just be part of the last generation who will know what that means.
On Thursday we head off to France on holiday. I am longing to see the girls, my mother, our friends and to breathe the air. But I am not looking forward to speaking French. I am already rehearsing conversations in my head, and they are not going well.
Copyright: Helena Frith Powell 2009
Here’s a link to a video clip I made during the Obama campaign. I am not an American citizen but I felt that a candidate who had voted in favour of the amendment that planned to ban cluster bombs in civilian areas (unlike senator Clinton) deserved the help and effort of filmmakers across the globe.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fxx80gMCgsA
Hi
It is really good thanks for posting it, I saw yesterday that many countries have not signed up, totally shocking.
Hx
I know. It is people like us who can help to change that. We may feel that we are only a drop in the ocean at times, but if we keep doing it we might rally many more drops to this cause. It’s worth the effort. We have brought children into this world. We have an obligation to make it a better place for them.
Totally agree with previous comments.
I thought highlighting landmines was one of the great achievements in the short life of Princess Diana.
Hope you have a fabulous holiday, and I’m sure the French will come back in jig-time when you’re there.
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