Being an Arab in the West.
The Middle East is constantly being negatively presented through media outlets, and some people are able to form only negative opinions from what is being portrayed. Being an Arab-American woman, I have a lot to say about this beautiful region of the world. I know that it can be difficult at times to see its beauty, but I guarantee there is a beauty within the region, culture, and its citizens.
One important thing to note when you meet someone of Middle Eastern origin is that you will be flourished with hospitality. They truly want everyone around them to feel comfortable and relaxed as if they are always in their own home. They have a generosity that I can honestly say is like no other. Come over for dinner? Prepare for a feast and a food coma. Need a place to crash for a few nights? They got you covered. In a bad mood? Let’s go out for a celebration, does ice cream sound good? The love they have for others company is truly a prominent quality in many, if not all, Middle Eastern cultures.
Having friends over was always interesting. I used to have to explain everything to my American friends before they met my family. “Don’t be surprised about this…” I would say or “This may be weird but it is totally normal for us." It was funny to see their reactions when my family did things they were not used to. They would leave saying, “Your family is really funny” or “My family is nothing like that, we are so boring." There was never a time that my friends did not feel welcome around my family.
We always take the place we come from for granted. I may be in the minority talking about it the way I do, but it’s my favorite place in the world. I have seen a lot of hardship in this place, but it has also made me into the person I am. I have made some of the best friendship there. I have experienced so much that has made me into a better person there. It is a place where I find comfort and happiness. It is where I could fully express myself and wouldn’t be judged (depending on who I was with).
Egypt is a beautiful country that I think everyone needs to visit. Yes, the Great Pyramids are cool, but there is so much more to the country. It is honestly stunning. Alexandria, even though it is adapting western aspects, has some of the best views. Who wouldn’t want to be able to stroll on the shore of the Mediterranean am I right? There is so much this country has to offer its people, it just takes people time to see it.
Even though I have lived outside of Egypt more than I have in it, it is where I come from, and want to stay connected to. Growing up Arab was an interesting experience, to say the least, but when I look back at it, I am glad I grew up this way. There was never a dull moment and it was always a fun time when my family was together. It makes me laugh every time I recollect memories of growing up. Many people in Egypt need to know this about the lifestyle we lead because no matter the situation we never forget where we come from. I would never think of changing my culture for even a second. I love everything about being Arab! There are abundant places to see in this world, but I can honestly say there is no place like this one.
