I met with my conversation partner and good friend, Abdulmohsen. Following a summer apart, he and I were able see each other again, but this time, we have many stories to share. Whether it is politics, education, types of shisha, or language homework, we always find something to chat about. Last Sunday evening, we continued our weekly tradition of catching up over a hookah pipe. When I walked into his apartment, I was quickly reminded of the Arab hospitality I had experienced during the times I lived in Jordan. It was not necessarily a new experience for me because Abdulmohsen is perhaps one of the most hospitable people I know. Though he and I come from different countries, cultures, religious backgrounds, and families, we have more in common than twin brothers.
Last Sunday evening, Abdulmohsen and I discussed many current issues plaguing the Middle East particularly surrounding the war in Syria. His ability to shape and present his opinion in English was very impressive as well as was his passion for the Syrian people who were being killed daily. After hearing him speak, I thought to myself about the practice, inspiration, and time that Abdulmohsen has put into his speaking ability. This inspired me in my study of Arabic. I look forward to the day where Abdul and I can sit in a coffee shop in Saudi Arabia and smoke hookah together. Then, I will speak with the fluency in Arabic that Abdul helped to develop through his tutoring me, and I will hear his English with the fluency of a long time speaker that I helped develop through our tutoring and friendship.
I look forward to many more experiences.....TO BE CONTINUED
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Thats great to continue great friendships that allows each other to expand their perception, and not to mention have fun! Its cool as well that he inspired you to take your own studies of Arabic more seriously. We all have to make efforts to understand our global neighbors and connect with them on meaningful levels.
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