The title of this blog, "You can't clap with one hand" comes from an Afghan proverb (supposedly) that means something along the lines of: "there is strength in union". To me this title represents my thoughts on how we should be approaching development and security in Afghanistan- through a unity of effort with the Afghans that lays the groundwork for Afghan ownership, accountability, and empowerment for the future of their country. I plan to discuss lessons learned through my experiences and observations in working for a Provincial Reconstruction Team.
Another Afghan saying that symbolizes why I'm going to do a job when many believe the situation is hopeless is, "Community is not created by force". I hope that through the work that we do, together, the Afghans will get an opportunity to live in peace.
