The Joys of Listening

It's hard to believe I have been in Egypt for a month already.  I've begun the process of cultural adjustment in earnest now, in and out of classes.  It is almost as though I have to adjust to two cultures though, because on-campus culture is so different than off-campus culture.  I try to balance school commitments with adventuring off campus.  Trying to navigate and understand these new environments has changed my perspective of home in a number of ways, especially in regards to issues of race, class, and gender.  

The most exciting aspect of this experience for me has been listening and observing.  I've witnessed the issues of race, class, politics, and gender play out in and outside of the classroom.  Everyone has an opinion about what Egypt is and what it should be.  When I listen to these debates however, I am learning about more than the issues themselves, I am also learning about the values and attitudes of everyday Egyptians.  Between the lines of the arguments, discussions and debates I have also witnessed what I can only describe as an unconquerable humor.  No matter what the issue is, however hot the debate, there is always room among the Egyptians for jokes and dry remarks.