I've learned the hard way...hope this message will help others!

Submitted by RLT (Egypt), Feb 2, 2013 at 18:29

Yes, consider me one of those gullible women who fell line, hook and sinker for a Muslim man. And ... to boot, one of those tacky "online" romances. Of course I've considered myself intelligent, but as you read on, you will find me not so smart when it comes to love.

I'm writing this quickly from my phone, as I'm sitting here in a dark apartment with a Muslim man and his mother who watch my EVERY move.

I came to Cairo, Egypt 34 days ago, married by urfi contract, so we could stay together in the same apartment. Thank GOD it's NOT a legal binding contract! I thought I knew this 47 year old man, after all we spoke via cam every night for two years. I being 52, I thought I was educated enough to NOT get involved with someone online, least of all someone in a third-world country whose culture, upbringing and religion are opposite mine. In my opinion, rarely do cross-cultural relationships work!

So, I've had to ask myself a thousand times over why I thought my situation would be different. I certainly got caught up in believing this man truly loved me! I enjoyed hearing how beautiful he thought I was, and the future of happily ever after!

Let me tell you about my "HAPPILY EVER AFTER". I've been here 34 days and have been allowed out six of those days, and those six days have been ONLY at night! There are no windows in this apartment, so I've forgotten what it feels like to be outside during the day. I've been told NOT to wear makeup, and to wear a hijab, even though I am Christian. I have not showered in a week, and when allowed, it's cold water.

The area in which I am in is approximately 8x8 foot. I've learned first hand that women are to be submissive and obedient at all times. If you voice your opinion about something he may not agree with, you may get slapped across the face, like I was, as his mother stood by and watched as I pleaded for help. It didn't stop there: after that, he screamed at me for an hour. I begged to go outside and he finally agreed but it would ONLY be for 10 minutes AND I would be covered because he didn't want any man to look at me! He was pissed the entire time I tried to enjoy the fresh air.

While I agree there are good and bad people in all parts if the world. I feel that this religion and culture is disgusting. The list is endless and I hope to share my entire experience once I return to the USA in March! I'm counting the days until I'm FREE!

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