Dahab.
I'm a bit shocked that something like this occurred in Dahab. A friendly little Egyptian hippie town. I scuba dived and snorkeled there once, and shared the most amazing milkshakes on earth. I wonder if Ahmed the artist is there... he painted these silhouettes over and over. Some of the waiters at the various restaurants on the water spoke in Australian accents-- but had never stepped foot in Australia... I could see Saudi Arabia on a clear day...
The photo shows the men I prayed with on the beach, in a little area outlined by rocks-- their mosque. That moment always reminds me of the things I miss about my being in the Middle East while in the mosque. No one would bother me. Ever. No one questioned my praying in a bathing suit well above my knees. No one ever tried to step on my toes while praying in congregation. Hell, men and women go make wudu in the same place (click to see a photo!) It was all very laid back. It was all very peaceful. I know there are many notable exceptions to this, especially in regards to women. Especially in Mecca. Don't burst my happy place. I'll be critical tomorrow, okay?
Slideshow of Dahab Bombings