التغييرات

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.