On Saturday the 12th, I had the wonderful privilege of attending Peace of Thread’s virtual fundraiser: Plates of Peace.  Plates of Peace whisked me away on a virtual trip an Afghan kitchen-located in Lilburn, GA!  Our host was Anisa*-one of our artisans from Afghanistan who has now resided in the U.S. foreight years.  Although she’s very busy with her husband and four kids, Anisa graciously agreed to allow cameras into her kitchen so she could show us how to make qabuli, (pronounced caw-blee)a dish traditionally served to guests in her home country (It’s the only dish I’ve heard of that contains both goat meat and raisins!) 

You might recall that Anisa is very special to us at Peace of Thread.  In 2016 she became very ill with pneumonia, fell into a coma, and almost died.  I never would have associated that sick woman with the vibrant, confident one in the kitchen.  With help from her son Ibrahim, she answered questions about her life in Afghanistan and her new life in the U.S.  Her favorite thing to do in Afghanistan was watch tv with her mom while her favorite thing to do in the U.S. is reading the Quran by herself (something she can do now that her youngest is in school).  The biggest adjustment she’s had to make?  Learning how to drive!  Anisa had no idea how to drive when she lived in Afghanistan but now enjoys going on short drives.

Besides getting a picture of how Anisa has thrived in the U.S., I also got a picture of the cost for being of being a refugee.  Because Anisa’s husband helped the U.S. army in Afghanistan, she hasn’t seen her family in eight years. The sacrifice is great, and it’s not made voluntarily.   Hearing this part of Anisa’s story gave me a greater appreciation for her strength and resilience. 

Joining Anisa during this magical evening was Denise Smith, our founder and CEO. She helped Anisa cook and answer questions.  Watching them work together reminded me thateverything we do at Peace of Thread is collaboration between seamstresses and staff.   No one woman does everything on her own. 

My favorite part of the evening was Anisa’s response to a viewer’s question about the amount of spice she was adding to the qabuli. Denise said that it was “just a pinch,” but Anisa interrupted.     “I know!” she cried,  “I know the word!‘Teaspoon!’” Anisa knew no English when I first met her.   Her eagerness to share an English word she knew showed how confident she has become in finding her own voice. 

If you missed Plates of Peace, it’s not too late!  We also have one on  Saturday the 26th ( learn a Sri Lankan recipe.) Tickets are only $25.  No mask or passport required.  Come learn about a refugee’s life and broaden your culinary horizons!    There is also the opportunity to buy bags made by these special ladies before anyone else!

*Name changed to protect privacy