Oklahoma City is Oh So Pretty....

The Buoye Crones pushed westward, with tears in our eyes, while Natalie flew back to Chicago. Outside Oklahoma City we stopped in Goodnight at a charming rest stop where we chanced upon a traveling exhibit authored by retired general, Tommy Franks. Gen. Franks led the invasion of Afghanistan after the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Towers and led the overthrow of Saddam Hussein. With a typical liberal bias, I expected his exhibit to be a jingoistic tribute to American might. Instead, I learned General Franks is committed to the development of the next generation of thoughtful leaders: "Leaders know that complex issues resist elegant and easy solutions.
They must consider the views of others and recognize that disagreement does not mean disrespect."
Inside this "roadside classroom and grassroots museum" was a fascinating display of cultural artifacts that General Frank and his wife collected from many of the twenty-five countries over the course of his career. In addition to beautiful embroidered garments from Pakistan, toys, including a Barbie-type doll with a headscarf and her own burqka,  a ceremonial sword from Afghanistan, Gen. Frank displays many pictures depicting folks from all these countries engaged in study, family activities, farming and other peaceful pursuits.

We were so excited to think of kids visiting this museum and learning about these countries and their people in a respectful way that emphasizes both our common humanity and the richness of other cultures. The exhibit is driven around to community celebrations, parades and veteran's events, so far in Oklahoma, where Gen. Frank is from, and eventually throughout the country. After resetting my electromagnetic field with a sojourn on the grass, we drove on to spend the night in Amarillo. For the full album of todays' photos, see my facebook page. FYI, steer clear of the hotel chain "Fifth Season Inn and Suites."