CPTnet
November 20, 2004

IRAQ: Remembering Margaret Hassan

"Giving material goods can help people. If food is needed and we can give
it, we do that. If shelter is needed, or books or medicine is needed, and
we can give them, we do that. As best we can, we can care for whoever needs
our care. Nevertheless, the real transformation takes place when we let go
of our attachments and give away what we think we can't."

When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron pg. 102

Margaret Hassan lived a life of giving away what we think we can't. She
came to Iraq more than thirty years ago, a foreigner in a land that has been
manipulated and oppressed by foreigners for much of the last millennium.
Yet she came and lived with the people and grew to love them so much that
she became a citizen.

She lived her life giving away the human need for security. She worked
tirelessly for the people of Iraq coping with governments whose human rights
record varied from somewhat intolerant to outright oppressive. She lived a
life with the people of Iraq, not a life spent behind concrete barricades
and razor wire where the current military forces occupying Iraq live.

Finally it seems as if she gave away her life. Individuals who justify any
means in order to accomplish their ends appear to have taken it from her.
The Christian Peacemaker Team (CPT) in Iraq prays that these individuals can
reconnect with their humanity. We pray for healing for Hassan's family,
friends and co workers. We understand that the Qu'ran teaches that an
innocent person who is killed travels as quickly as light does to the gates
of Paradise.

While Margaret's light may now be in Paradise her physical presence is no
longer with the people of Iraq. We ask all people who have lived in her
light and all who seek that light to continue the work she began. She lived
a life of courage in the midst of fear. We are called to do the same, no
matter what the consequences.

CPT has had the privilege of knowing Margaret during the two years that CPT
has been in Iraq. She met with a number of visiting delegations and shared
with them her vision for the future of her country. One CPT member
reflected on his experiences with her, "Margaret and her staff placed their
energies into building the future for the people of Iraq. When attackers
bombed [CARE International's] warehouse last year, they moved the operation,
but continued their efforts with other Iraqis to improving life in this
country. Margaret modeled an extravagant way of living for others."