2002-10-06 - 10:32 a.m.
Peace Corps trainees headed to the nearby mountains this week for a day of hiking. I opted to travel to another cotton field with my local PC friend to see his host brother who was working in the fields. His arrangement was much worse than mine the weekend prior. Facilities were dirty and locals seemed unwelcoming. Nevertheless, it was an important visit because the kids seemed rejuvenated by the site of two Americans.
Prior to heading to the mountains, PC set up and planned a typical ceremony locals follow when they head to the mountains-that being the sacrifice of a sheep. So on Friday, during our weekly HUD session where all PC Trainees are together, they allowed us the option to view the ceremony. Despite my hesitation, and vegetarian (although for different reasons than animal rights) status, I participated. A local Mullah came and set the mood with blessing of the sheep and us. Then a local put the animal on its side, pulled back the head, and slit its neck. Blood poured from the body. Oddly, the display was rather peaceful and reverent. Peace Corps was given the option of selecting a member to make the cut but no one was willing. The Uzbeks will use every part of this animal, including head and intestines. For a citizen of America, the greatest meat eaters in the world, it was very symbolic and moving to see the reverent process of the killing here. I can only imagine the number of times that occurs daily in America with no ceremony. Many families on my block own sheep, cows, and horses. All will be eventually eaten, with the exception of a few horses of great strength. Nevertheless, the animals are well repected and well cared for (because they are of value). Hopefully I will not need to silence the lambs one day.
