18 Comments
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Daniel Baker's avatar

Your voice reads crystal clear and the power of your story becomes evident with every word.

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Averil Bosworth's avatar

Love what you do, and do what you love my angel xxx

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Joanna George's avatar

Wow, you have a wild life story! But then despite it all at least you are clear — or your eloquent writing style makes it very clear — that despite the dodgeballs you’ve faced your destiny is tied to writing? And that your part is to keep writing, to be disciplined in your practice?

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Petra Khashoggi's avatar

Exactly. I don't know why I've always been drawn to the written word, but I've never found anything else that I wanted or loved to do more, so I will keep on writing (and dreamin') for the rest of my days. I can't imagine ever not doing it. Thank you for reading and commenting!

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Robert Kos's avatar

Whoa ❤️❤️❤️

For a story that goes from being sent to an English boarding school at 6 to constant literary rejection (among other things), this was such an inspiring read. Your writing on here is top tier, and I’m sure it has always been. The courage to pursue it for you too.

Wow.

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Petra Khashoggi's avatar

Thank you, Robert. I always appreciate your comments. Writing definitely takes courage, and even in the face of rejection, you've just got to keep on doing it for you. (That's what I tell myself.)

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Susan Coyne's avatar

From the note about being the only six-year-old boarder who wasn’t picked up by her parents at the end of the day onward, I had tears pricking at my eyes. People say “Life finds a way” and in your case it sounds like your life force, shaped around the practice of writing, has sustained itself through rare forms of horror! Loved your childhood memories of going places to dream and write (as I did, too, and had particular trees I visited). And love that you had a tree reunion!

Anyway, thanks so much for sharing this vivid picture. I have a lot more to say but I feel like it will end up sounding inadequate. Looking forward to reading more from you.

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Petra Khashoggi's avatar

Thank you for reading and commenting, Susan. Much appreciated.

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Mary Conley's avatar

Beautifully written with stunning photographs! To a dreamer and survivor who has found herself and her path through strength and perseverance. Congratulations!

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Zuu - Radio Free Amerika's avatar

You're a true gem... your writing has the essential honesty and character that comes with trials and tribulations you've faced... Inspirational, and refreshing, entertaining and delightful.. keep on writing ✍️ ajd sharing please ajd your following will continue to amaze !!!

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Petra Khashoggi's avatar

Ahh thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement! Big love and heartfelt gratitude. 💝

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Farida Taha's avatar

Loved reading this and learning more about you. Thanks for sharing. And that tree!! I have a vivid memory flying a kite with you near that tree. Keep up the writing. Love it.

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Petra Khashoggi's avatar

Thank you. 🤍 So many fun and funny times with you at La Baraka. I’m smiling now remembering some of them.

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Naela's avatar

❤️ amazing!

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Petra Khashoggi's avatar

Best memories. ❤️

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Cici Sullivan's avatar

You are a powerhouse of a woman. So proud to know you and be your IRL friend. 🤍🤍🤍

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Petra Khashoggi's avatar

Right back at ya. 🤍 Thank you for being so awesome.

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Hilly Zee's avatar

Your life story could be a novel or screenplay.

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