balloons are generally signs of happiness, but this is so sad

In a country rocked with violence over the last decade this image succeeds in capturing the humanity that has prevailed through it all. It captures a quiet moment suspended between the turmoil.

With more violence rolling into Afghanistan from the Pakistani border (attack on NATO oil tankers) this photo is a good reminder that the "warfare" being waged has not yet destroyed every good thing in the country. The people and their beautiful culture remain, despite and among it all. 

The solemnity of the subjects in the photo combined with the bright colors and soft light communicate very well the combatant feelings of angst and relief that are experienced frequently when violence is brought to one's homeland.