old, delighted and attracted me, and motivatedme to continue learning of my heritage and of this antiquated land.In addition to new sights there was an abundance of other experiences to enchantthe senses. The smells as one sifted through the open spice market drugged one to ecstasy,while the rank stench that emanated from the livestock market was equally odoriferous.The lavish feasts that poured from the kitchens of the Middle East were as fulfilling todevour as they were to smell, and there is nothing like a whole roast lamb with spices andthe proper condiments to make one roll over in content euphoria. The same foods andsmells I experienced while living there were just as plentiful on my recent vacation as theyhave always been, and just as delightful to enjoy with friends and family as always.This is the portrait I now like to give when people ask me that same inquisitivequery. I have always been a part of America and Arabia, and these two diverse cultureshave always been a part of me. My unique experiences have gifted me with a holisticperspective in life, with a desire to learn all that I can from different people and differentcultures. Aside from that, it also prepares me for the inevitable question I am asked everytime I arrive in the Middle East and am greeted by friends and family, “So... how isAmerica?”....
