tradition
because it has
always
been done
since i
remember
i suppose
it's been done
since time began
we have always
done it
we will always
do it
and we will
continue
to do it
because it is
tradition
it was done
to my
grandmother
my mother
my sisters
me
your mother
now it must be done
to you
because of
tradition
this will make you a
good girl
you will not
shame us
you will not
dishonor
your name
you will be
pure
and ready
for marriage
tradition
you have no choice
this must be done
to you
as it was done
to me
it will hurt
but the pain won't
last long
you will heal
over time
i healed
you must be strong
when the time
comes
mama
if i must be strong
why
are
there
tears
running down your face
--------------------------------------------------------
We must end the practice of female
genital mutilation NOW.

Women are being violated against
their will, because of tradition,
while young girls.

Many nations in Africa, and in
other parts of the world, prac-
tice FGM, as a means of preparing
a young girl for entry into woman-
hood. For some, it carries reli-
gious significance.

FGM involves removing parts OR ALL
of the woman's external genitalia,
using crude instruments (glass,
scissors, knife, razor, etc.), often
in unclean environments, usually
without anesthetic. Several women
have to hold the child down.

Agonizingly painful, it robs the
young woman of pleasure and often
causes severe medical problems that
will affect her the rest of her life,
ASSUMING she survives the ordeal.

All because of tradition...TRADITION
MUST CHANGE.

(((HUGS))) *tears* and love,

karla. :(