facing yourself

school started today. neil and i decided we should celebrate, or more likely, reward ourselves, and get a cup of coffee after class. well, actually, neil bought the coffee since he lost a bet for one dinar last night (the dinar is the kuwaiti currency, it's about $3.75 USD and the cost of a cup of coffee here). i've been in kuwait a week now and can't help but recognize the similarities and differences between kuwaiti and united states cultures. probably the most recognizable difference is dress. while some women and men cover (whether their head or their entire dress), others do not (and for those wondering, no, i don't cover). but the similarities are striking. there are coffee shops on virtually every block (especially the status symbol that is starbucks), malls galore (here they're especially expensive and high end), teenagers walking in excessively large packs, people going to the grocery store after work, and families living their daily lives.

why then this imagery that the middle east (as if it was one country, like africa is often spoken about) is so different? neil kindly pointed out to me that sometimes when i make observations i use adjectives such as weird or different, rather than new or interesting. ouch. tomorrow i have to go into a classroom of women and men (classrooms are sex separated in accordance with islamic law) and teach them about ethnocentrism and cultural relativism. and what have i just done? meredith, the one who loves to study and learn about other cultures has fallen into the trap of using my culture and experiences as the basis for comparison. this is hard to admit, but good to share.

all this to say for those of you who are worried about me, please don't be. i am fine and i am safe. actually, i am better than fine. i have never met more hospitable and kind people than i have in kuwait this past week! plus, take a look at these pics. how could i not love living and working in such a beautiful place?