Wednesday night after classes, I went downtown to meet my new Arabic tutor (I have chosen to go with private instruction over a course through the university). All went well, and after our meeting I decided it was finally time for me to go out exploring on my own. Over the past week, feelings of deep frustration had been boiling the surface over my, believe it or not, feelings of entrapment. Whether it be university officials, family or friends, or the U.S. State Department, the single message projected thus far has been, "If you are a woman, be careful, trust no one, watch out." I've just decided though, that while it's important to be smart and careful on a common sense level, these other warnings are simply bullshit. And I refuse to live my life that way. Why did I come here after all?
Having confirmed these sentiments only a few days ago, already the wind has twirled me off of my feet once again, and landed me in new and unexpected places. By finally putting the so-called "risk" on the line, I have met some wonderful new people, both Egyptian and American. Aside from the friendliness, laughter, and jokes, stimulating conversation and adventure, an even greater feeling has come of all this. Even if on a small level, nonetheless, I feel as if my belief in the basic trust and goodness of people has been reaffirmed. And this is certainly a beautiful thing; it is what beckons our general curiosity about others and pushes us into the path of new gales. I think I'll see where this one takes me.
posted by Katie Warren @ 12:48 AM
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