Same Same, NOT Different

I was talking with my mom on the phone the other night and something she said stuck in my head. She said, "I think you really like it over there, more power to you!". Well, she's right. I do like it over here and I think the power that has been bestowed upon me is to share it with others so that we can all become a more tolerant people. This trek in our lives has been nothing less than an eye opening experience. It's amazing how a thobe or an abaya thrown over someone can create such a barrier, such a mystery to the point that some refuse to look beyond the book cover. Well, I've got breaking news. They are real people. They eat, breathe, pray (probably more) , and play like we do. The teenage boys and girls under their thobes and abayas look just like other teenage kids, dressed in the latest fashions. The women are proud of their family, trade recipes, read novels, love to shop, and face the same trials and tribulations that others do while raising their children. The men love their sports, they fish, they socialize, and are extremely family oriented often seen towing multiple children to educational and fun events. Yeah, they smoke too much and are hooked on caffeine, but don't we all have our vices? And yes, some are spoiled beyond reason, but to wake up suddenly to riches thrown their way is a lot to adjust to and might we do the same? There are many cultural differences no doubt, but the last time I checked, that's what makes the world go 'round. I'm here to tell you first hand, that most things that I heard about the people here before coming are simply not true. Their aloofness is often mistaken for snobbishness. Could it be that they're just a little wary of us, as well? So, go ahead, strike up a conversation. You might be amazed at the twinkle and warmth that comes to their eyes as they talk to you about everyday things...hmm, just like us. No different. Just people.


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