What I have learnt through the last three years crystallises my recent perception about Arabs and why we are still lagging behind others. When they glimpse someone who is different and due to the lack of exposure to any differences, they completely shun them and fiercely fight them. I prefer my cocoon instead of exerting any effort towards such narrow-mindedness as it would be in vain. Monotheism is good for spirit, but homogeneity is lethal for our minds and future. Befriend all, accept them magnanimously, and mingle with everyone but be engrossed with your business and life only.
In the beginning, I felt I was wrong, maybe snobbish. I took into consideration that I belonged to a community where women are completely veiled, vulnerable, and manipulated. Then, I realized that all my confusion has resulted from choosing development instead of standing still. Ironically, I wanted to be one of you ten years ago. I wanted to be a regular wife with an ordinary life, but your recalcitrance what provoked me and helped me to succeed.
Yesterday, I cried a lot because of your poor sight, unneeded lineage (tribe), your calibre of beauty which trampled on me, and your ignorance.
Today, I am a dissident and proud to be! I have stayed silent and docile for a decade out of fear and audacity. It is preferable to be low-key in such situations. Now, it is my turn to pay you back with my mutiny, blossoming, and success. That battle was gnawing on my soul, but upfront payment is a must in this world.

Gehad I absolutely agree with your comment. Thank you.
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You are most welcome 🙏🏻
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It’s not easy to be an outsider in your own culture. I’ve been one most of my life. But for all its difficulties, it gives you many gifts.
I wish you strength. And joy.
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Indeed!👏🏻
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“Befriend all, accept them magnanimously, and mingle with everyone but be engrossed with your business and life only”. I was just thinking of this lately. You are not alone, I love this post.
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Thank you so much!
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Well spoken. I have enjoyed reading your posts and I commend you for standing up and speaking out. I live in the US. That said, I am a woman of diversity from a working class family. Life has never been easy and now that I am in my senior years, it is only now that I have begun to become who it is that I truly am. But, when most of your family of origin is gone, I believe it is not as difficult to do so. You have a long life ahead and you could make a difference by taking the stance that you do. Thank you.
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You are most welcome my dear friend 🙏🏻
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