I am writing this as I lie on a remote beach on Cypriot shores. As I watch May snorkling in the glistening waters I gather my thoughts and find it completely surreal that only ten momths ago I feared for our lives on a daily basis in a land so alien to this one . I often describe the fear I felt akin to be woken up out of slumber and knowing that someone is in your home. Your mouth goes dry and your heart beats strongly in your chest. You are petrified. Ordinarily, this terror would last 5 to 10 minutes. I felt that way for six weeks.
The return road to normality, after such a turbulent journey is often as long and ardous as the journey itself. However, I am blessed. My daughters' life, for the most part, has returned to normality. Unfortunately, for hundreds of thousands of other children, life will never be the same again. Parental abduction is a form of child endangerment. The said child is removed from a stable and familiar environment to a life often filled with confusion and fear; often living under assumed names. Routine is impossible. The alienated parent and relatives are left hopeless, desolated and alone.
As for me, I am often asked whether I feel anger or hatred. The answer is neither. Primarily I feel relieved and blessed. We are alive and safe. I feel great sorrow for all those that are not, the victims of a cruel and unjust regime.