I have been out of the United States
for over two months now, and there is less than two months left of this
phenomenal experience. I have noticed transformations in myself, and the way
that I approach cultural and political differences.
Talking to people with contrasting
views from mine has made me reevaluate how I think, and my perceptions of the
Middle East. I have learned to embrace change, and go into every event with an
open mind. Things here are so different from the states; I am still baffled by them daily.
The states are sheltered from the true
happenings of this region; the media only represents the negative events that
occur here, and fail to point out the development, and positive changes. The
media that surrounds our daily lives influence the way we think and our
perceptions of the world, which can be counterproductive towards cultural competency.
An article written by Juan Cole, “The Arab World’s Fourths of July”, presents a very good comparison between our own
revolution, and the ones that are happening in the Middle East. This is a good reflection
on a country's path towards liberty and independence.
It feels like I left my family and
friends years ago, however, it also feels like I've been abroad for only a
week. I miss my home, family, and
friends, but there is so much to learn, see, and experience in the world.
Someone I respect and love greatly
told me before I left the states “Find the similarities, and respect the
differences”; this has been my motto going into every day.