I hate such stories – lamenting the fate of poor innocent folks who have been unjustly punished by an uncaring government, just because they. . . broke the law!

For more than a decade, the Kesbehs lived in Houston without proper documents, relying on the family's business selling American flags and other banners to get by.

Like millions of others from around the world, the Palestinians were in the United States illegally. They paid taxes, sent their children to school and tried not to be noticed.

Then, as pressure mounted on Muslims after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, the Kesbehs were found out, two members of the family were detained, and the whole clan was deported. They were sent to Jordan, a country the seven children barely knew.

They live in a cramped, cold apartment in Amman, the capital, where they rely primarily on the income generated by Noor Kesbeh, the eldest daughter, who has found steady work at, of all places, the U.S. Embassy.

Enterprising American dreamers or lawbreakers? Hardworking folk who should be welcomed back, or opportunists? Either way, the Kesbehs are desperate to return to the United States if they can find a way to do so legally.

The answer is clear – they are lawbreakers and opportunists. However, if they can legally get back in the country, they will be welcome in my book.

But as for all the hardships in the article, my response is simple – tough shit. That is part of the price you pay for your crimes.

Posted by: Greg at 12:05 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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