September 26, 2022

“I spent half of my life in war and on the front lines. During my time, military service was mandatory. I have memories from all of the provinces in Iraq. People my age remember how we had to prepare ourselves for each war after one another. We are used to war; thus, unfortunately, we could never have an ordinary life. So many times, I have cried about being away from Kirkuk; sadly, nothing is how it used to be now. Maybe it is because how life has exhausted us has left a deep wound in our hearts. When I was younger, I didn’t have time to enjoy this city and its times, and now there is much time, but I’ve gotten old”.