A Few Visits

We've been on break for the past few weeks which was rather refreshing. Over the break we had Rhonda (Stephen's mom) visit for Christmas and David, Ali & Debbie (three close friends) visit after her. We were able to see some of the more touristy places in Jordan as well as a couple surrounding countries.

In between visitors we were able to visit with some of our English students. A brother and sister, one from each of our classes had us over for a meal with their whole family! They cooked for us a typical Jordanian meal of chicken, rice, peanuts, and a special sauce. We also had Arabic coffee, and they taught us that if you don't want more coffee you pick up your cup and shake it. Otherwise, it will be refilled frequently. They were a pleasant and very warm family. We got into conversation about Jordanians and Americans. One of the brothers had an international job and talked about how he liked that Americans like to joke around a lot. He said some others cultures were too serious.

Towards the end of the conversation, one family member asked if coming here had changed our opinion of Muslims. It made me think about how nobody enjoys to be judged negatively especially without being known. Unfortunately, between different cultures, especially ones as different as ours, judgements are common. It is frustrating here as I know many people (but not all) judge me everyday without getting to know me. I am thrown into “The West” category as if every person from America and Europe were exactly the same. The same way of going about life, the same values, thoughts and beliefs. Many of the people here, hear our news reports and are afraid of our cities, wondering why anyone would ever live in such a violent place. Based on our movies some people here believe western men and women are ready to throw themselves at each after two sentences. However, I have to remind myself that we have unfair preconceived notions of Arabs in the United States as well.

*Please note that the photo here is not at the house we were at for dinner but in a tent with Bedouins. The large tray with a lot of food is the typical Jordanian way of serving it.