Emotional, Emotionless.

... He is so worried about his daughter. He resembles the typical "Oriental" loving and caring parent. He cannot stop the thoughts invading his ever busy mind.

"What if someone harassed her? What if she is fooled and raped?"

He tries to resist the strong "need" to call her.

"I should be certain that she is okay! It is cold outside, what if she gets sick?"

Ali, a father for two sons and a daughter, lights the tenth cigarette since his daughter went out two hours ago. He coughs with unease and pain, all his body moves as he coughs...
He needs to sleep, but is unable to as his daughter went out to party with her friends.

He "devoted" all his life for "caring" for his children, worrying about them every day and every night, to the extent that he did not look after himself.
His health is deteriorating day after day, making it harder and harder for him to sleep, eat, and function...

Reem is calling... He answers the phone quickly...
'Hello, Reem?!'
'I have arrived to the party dad.' She informs him... 'I am fine papa, do not worry..'
...

They hang up...
Thoughts start invading his mind again...
"What if someone has kidnapped her, and is now forcing her to say that she is okay? What if... What if... What if..."

***

A person who worries a lot and is always seeking certainty is a selfish person who aims to avoid feeling guilty, but is considered to be "Emotional".
A person who looks for himself to stay strong and maintain the ability to assist others is a caring person, but is considered "Emotionless".


The standards are turned upside down in our world.

Maher Abou Shackra