Then there is the matter of faith. The Taliban are driven by self-righteousness. They believe that God wants them to kill in order to purify their tribe and nation. This includes both infidels and their own people if they oppose Taliban views. The Taliban want to separate themselves from the rest of the world. Yet the Koran also teaches Muslims to respect their fellow human beings. If only the Taliban would embrace what they accept in theory but so rarely put into practice—that the world belongs to God and that he loves all his people.
As I have gone through the different stages of life, I have learned the value of assessing my spiritual growth. While my journey is at times challenging, it is a worthy one. For me, it is less about being religious and adhering to rules and routines and more about seeing and caring for others through the loving eyes of God. I try to rely always on God’s grace and mercy, to understand his ways in my life, and to project his love to others.
I am not so naïve as to suggest that achieving dramatic changes among the Taliban will be easy. Not at all. It will be a long, difficult struggle filled with setbacks. But I believe it is both possible and worth the effort. The Taliban are known for having closed minds, yet this is not what I experienced while talking with Wallakah, Haqqani, and some of the others. They realized they were at a dead end and sought something different. Thousands of people in Afghanistan—city dwellers and villagers and Taliban alike—are hungry for a better life. They are searching for answers if only someone will show them the way.
Will I be one of those people? As I write this, I don’t know. My son Jaron was probably four years old when he said to me, “You know, Papa, I know why you go to Afghanistan. People really need your help.” They still need my help today. My passion to continue my work among people I’ve grown to love is as strong as ever.
Many of us are quick to recognize measurable progress in developing nations—higher percentages of healthy babies, lower death rates among mothers during childbirth, decreasing reports of disease. But so much of what we do cannot be charted on a graph. As I’ve worked in Afghanistan and interacted with its people, I have experienced so much hope, joy, and peace. Simply taking the time to talk and listen with respect has an amazing impact. It is measured not in numbers but in smiles, trust, and new relationships. When we invest in those who are vulnerable and disenfranchised, our lives become more fulfilling.
I long to renew this work and had actually planned to return to Afghanistan for the first time in March 2014. But my passport mysteriously disappeared after I mailed it to the Afghanistan Embassy in Washington, D.C. Since then I’ve endured the deaths of friends, gained a better understanding of the emotional toll of such a trip on my family, and heard repeated advice from new friends in the military to stay away for now. While I continue to pray about the timing of my return, I will pursue creative ways to make a difference, even from a distance. After all, lasting change does not depend only on me. It was the combined efforts of many that allowed me to make a positive difference on previous trips. It will take more of this kind of team effort by both the Afghan people and the international community to keep the country moving forward.
As I think about Afghanistan and my own future, I realize that life is more precious to me than ever. I am reminded of this every time I look at my wife—at the time of this writing, we are expecting our fifth child. The joy my family brings me continues to outweigh the trials and heartaches.
If I have learned anything from my abduction and rescue, it is that God is in complete control of my life, regardless of what happens to me. I knew that before, but now it is branded indelibly in my psyche. I also understand that he loves me and that I can trust him.
When I was six years old, I had an experience that deepened this love and trust. I was in bed in my pajamas when my mother sat down and gently told me we could not afford the spoonful of sugar she usually added to my milk each night. “But I am going to pray that God would sweeten this milk for you, Dilip,” she said, “and that as you drink, it would be the best milk you’ve ever had.”
Even at that age, I was skeptical of my mother’s words. How, I thought, was this going to work?
But sure enough, when I drank, it really was one of the best and sweetest glasses of milk I’d ever tasted. I was so amazed that God cares about even the minute details of our lives. What I learned was that even when you don’t have much, you still have God.
When I was kidnapped by the Taliban, my life was no longer my own. The most basic choices that most of us take for granted were suddenly out of my hands. No options. No freedom. No future. Yet even though I’d lost virtually everything, I still had God. I still had his Spirit to guide and comfort me. He was what I needed most then and is still what I need most today.
I cannot imagine anything sweeter.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
LIFE IS SO OFTEN THE BEAUTIFUL RESULT OF PEOPLE, PLACES, and situations, all playing their parts to bring about deeper purpose and meaning. I am indebted to many who have molded me into who I am today.
To my father and mother—I couldn’t have asked for a better upbringing. Your sacrifices and your service to God, family, and others taught me the valuable lesson of striving for a balanced life. I am eternally grateful to God for choosing you both to raise me.
My sister Deepa and her family—Life simply wouldn’t have the same meaning without you. Ever since Mom’s death, you have taken on many different roles for my sake and for that of our extended family. You are a rock that many depend on, including me. Steve and my two beautiful nieces are great icing on the cake.
My extended family—I am so grateful for your continued voice in my life. My uncles and aunties from both sides of the family—your love and care during many milestones in my life continue to be defining factors that propel me forward. A special shout-out goes to my Uncle Roy and Uncle Thomas. You both mean a lot to me, and I am so grateful for your support and devotion.
My work colleagues—If it wasn’t for the dedication and tireless effort from all of you—Daniel, Lars, John, Paul, Lori, Joan, Adrienne, Roy, Grace, Akram, Al, Ken, Debbie, and all of you in Afghanistan—I simply wouldn’t be here today. I am so grateful that our paths have crossed. Thank you for demonstrating what is of greatest value on almost a daily basis.
My two colleagues who were in captivity with me, Rafiq and Farzad—I am deeply indebted to both of you. Your bravery and calm demeanor throughout our captivity helped me keep my composure during one of the most difficult experiences of my life. I don’t know what I would have done without the two of you.
Matthew, David, and Sam—You deserve a special note here. Upon my return the last thing I wanted to do was talk about what I had gone through with the Taliban. I received sound advice not to expect people to understand what I had just experienced. But talking to you three made me realize that this is a story to be shared. Your listening ears and gentle spirits made it easy for me to open up. It also helped tremendously that you had traveled on the same road where I had been captured.
Duane and Sam—I love our monthly get-togethers. I love that I can talk about anything with you guys. The word friendship has more meaning because of the two of you.
Vidu—You have been the brother I never had. You have played a significant role in my life since high school. Thank you for still believing in me and supporting me in so many ways. I am still hoping that we don’t have to live so far away from each other.
Jim—I still remember the first time I met you. I couldn’t help but wonder how this process of being an “open book” to a complete stranger was actually going to work. In a matter of a few months, you became not only a close friend but also “Uncle Jim” to my kids. Many times when it seemed our deadline was going to be hard to meet, your incredible gift of putting my thoughts into words, along with your patient demeanor, has gotten us through. I have a book I’m extremely proud of mainly due to you, my friend.
Joel—Since you have decided to pull the curtain on this chapter of your life as a literary ag
ent, here is one wish that this book will become one of your legacies. I want you to know that if it wasn’t for your easygoing manner, I would not have signed up for this project. Also, your insight in bringing Jim into the picture was a classic example of your sheer genius. I wish you much success in the next chapter of your journey.
Debbie—I can’t believe that I have yet to meet you because it feels like I have known you for years. Your belief and enthusiasm and gentle probing have moved this project along in record pace. I can’t wait to meet you and celebrate! And, yes, I also have enjoyed your twenty e-mails each day over the past several months. We would not have made it without your oversight—well done. My sincerest gratitude goes out to you and the entire team at Thomas Nelson for all your tireless efforts.
Nic—There is now one more thing I have added to the list of what I will not understand on this side of heaven. To rescue me, you paid the ultimate sacrifice. While your legacy will live on in my life and that of my family, my prayer is that many who read this story will be inspired by the example of your intentional service to make their own choices to live sacrificially for their families, communities, and nation.
My new friends at the FBI, in the military, and in other sectors of government—Before this event, I didn’t even know that the FBI had a citizen’s service department. All of you have served me and my family so beautifully. Because of your care, I feel that I have made it through this event unharmed.
The people of Afghanistan—The world knows very little about you, and that little doesn’t portray who you really are. My experience has revealed so much more. Your resolve, pride, resilience, and camaraderie bring a beauty that the world simply needs to know. My wish and prayer is that you stand up against what is bad and stand up for the truth that brings life. This world has much to learn from you.
Cilicia, Asha, Jaron, Tobi, Eshaan, and the baby—You bring me life every day. Not a single day is the same, and I love it. All of you love me for who I am and help make me who I want to be. I couldn’t ask for more. I appreciate the role you play to enable me to equip others who are in greater need.
To you, the reader—I am grateful for your choice to read this book. It is my hope that you now see Afghanistan in a different and more comprehensive light. Perhaps you will even accept the challenge to personally experience this nation and its people. If so, you will never be the same—and I mean that in the best of ways.
—Dilip Joseph
DILIP JOSEPH IS A REMARKABLE MAN. THE SAME EASYGOING manner, positive attitude, and unshakable faith that served him so well during a kidnapping by the Taliban also enabled him to put up with months of my endless questions. Thank you, Dilip, for your patience and your friendship, for your heart for all people in this world, and for the window into the life of an amazing servant. You have taught me more than you know.
To Cilicia, Asha, Jaron, Tobi, and Eshaan. Thank you for welcoming me into your home and making me feel like part of the family. I can’t wait to come back and read more bedtime stories.
Daniel, Lars, and everyone at Morning Star who was so helpful during my visit there. I admire you all for bringing much-needed peace and hope to the world.
Everyone who made my research trip to Afghanistan such an amazing experience. Lars, thanks for being my last-minute tour guide to Kabul—and for loaning your clothes when my luggage didn’t show. Mahmoud and family in Dubai, I so appreciated your hospitality. So many others contributed in multiple ways, including Al, Aref, Bruce, Debbie, Faith, Gabriella, Jerry, John, Ken, Mary Beth, Ron, Sheila, Sofia, Stephanie, Theresa, and the native team members. You all have my best wishes and gratitude.
Special thanks to Farzad and, especially, Rafiq, who took the time to sit down and share some of the most difficult memories imaginable. My new brother, I so admire your courage and your commitment to the people of Afghanistan.
Joel Kneedler, I’ve enjoyed every minute of our work together and wish you and the family all the best in the years ahead. I need to figure out a way to get you back to central Oregon.
Debbie Wickwire and the team at Thomas Nelson, your enthusiasm and dedication continue to be a joy. Let’s do many more of these.
My thanks to other contributors to this project, including Gary and Julie Williams, Angela Lund, Bob Green, David Lund, Paulmer Soderberg, and Debi Cummings.
Last but not least, my deepest appreciation for the continuing support of my family: Angela, Erik, Sonja, Peter, Dad, and Dave.
—James Lund
NOTES
CHAPTER 2: AFGHANISTAN
1. “Population (Total),” The World Bank, accessed July 8, 2014, http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.POP.TOTL?page=1.
2. “Afghanistan Population 2013,” World Population Statistics, accessed July 8, 2014, http://www.worldpopulationstatistics.com/afghanistan-population-2013/.
3. “Afghan authorities tackle country’s high illiteracy rate,” United Nations Missions Assistance in Afghanistan, September 8, 2013, http://unama.unmissions.org/Default.aspx?ctl=Details&tabid=12254&mid=15756&ItemID=37242.
4. “Afghan life expectancy has risen by 17 years since 2001,” Progressive Economy, February 13, 2014, http://progressive-economy.org/2014/02/13/afghan-life-expectancy-has-risen-by-17-years-since-2001/.
5. “Mortality rate, under-5 (per 1,000 live births),” The World Bank, http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SH.DYN.MORT?page=1.
6. “Afghanistan’s poppy farmers plant record opium crop, UN report says,” The Guardian, November 13, 2013, http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/nov/13/afghanistan-record-opium-crop-poppies-un.
CHAPTER 3: ANGUISH AND PEACE
1. “Afghanistan’s ethnic diversity,” CNN.com/asia, August 19, 2009, http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/08/17/afghanistan.ethnic.groups/index.html?iref=24hours.
2. Daniel 3:17–18.
CHAPTER 9: THE CONVERSATION
1. “The World Factbook,” Central Intelligence Agency, accessed July 8, 2014, https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/fields/2122.html.
2. Steve Coll, “Looking for Mullah Omar,” The New Yorker, January 23, 2012, http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2012/01/23/120123fa_fact_coll.
3. Ahmed Rashid, Taliban: Islam, Oil, and the New Great Game in Central Asia (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 2000), 87.
CHAPTER 13: “PAPA’S IN TROUBLE”
1. Matthew 10:28–31.
CHAPTER 19: HOME
1. Isaiah 6:8.
GLOSSARY
burqa: a long, loose garment covering the whole body from head to feet, worn in public by many Muslim women
chadri: veil
Dari: one of two official languages of Afghanistan
ferengi: foreigner
Hazara: Persian-speaking Shiites living in Afghanistan, with populations largely concentrated in the central part of the country
ISAF: International Security Assistance Force, a NATO-sponsored military presence in Afghanistan made up of troops from the United States and other nations
Jirga: tribal council
Kuchis: nomads who earn a living by herding and selling sheep, goats, donkeys, and camels
madrassa: Islamic religious school
mujahideen: Muslim freedom fighters
mullah: local Muslim religious leader
naan: leavened, oven-baked flatbread popular in west, central, and south Asia
namaz: ritual Islamic worship or prayer
NGO: non-governmental organization
pakol: soft, round-topped men’s hat, typically wool, worn by ethnic groups living in or near the Hindu Kush mountain range
pani: water
Pashto: language spoken by Pashtuns; one of two official languages of Afghanistan
Pashtun: most common ethnic group in Afghanistan
Pashtunwali: a tribal honor code that governs the Pashtun way of life
salwar kameez: traditional Afghan attire consisting of long, loose shirt with pajama-like pants
shamshoby: a short, green
shrub common in eastern Afghanistan
surma: an ore sometimes ground into a black powder and applied around the eyes
Taliban: plural of Talib, or “student, seeker of knowledge”; fundamentalist Muslim movement
taqiyah: a short, round skullcap
tashakor: thank you
Urdu: official language of Pakistan
Zakah: in Islamic tradition, the practice of giving from what Allah has already provided to others in need
RECOMMENDED RESOURCES
SEE THE FOLLOWING LIST OF LINKS AND OTHER RESOURCES:
AFGHANISTAN
www.afghan-web.com
an overview of Afghanistan and its people and culture
THE TALIBAN
Ahmed Rashid, Taliban: Islam, Oil, and the New Great Game in Central Asia (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 2000) account of the origins and rise of the Taliban and their impact on the region and the world
U.S. NAVY SEALS
Marcus Luttrell with Patrick Robinson, Lone Survivor (New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2007) describes 2005 U.S. Navy SEALs mission and Taliban attack in Afghanistan
Mark Owen with Kevin Maurer, No Easy Day (New York: Dutton, 2012) account of the 2011 raid on Osama bin Laden compound in Abbottobod, Pakistan
Eric Blehm, Fearless (Colorado Springs, CO: WaterBrook, 2012) the life and death of U.S. SEAL Team Six operator Adam Brown
U.S. VETERANS SUPPORT
www.udtseal.org
home page of nonprofit organization devoted to assisting those who have served or are serving in naval special warfare
Kidnapped by the Taliban: A Story of Terror, Hope, and Rescue by SEAL Team Six Page 17