September 12, 2002

Arab Hospitality

JZ and I met in Beirut, Lebanon at 2:30 am. We didn't have a place to stay, but JZ's seatmate on the plane invited us to stay at his place. Why not? So we climbed into Abu Walid's Mercedes (along with three other of his family members) and headed for north Lebanon. For about an hour this man drove along the twisted two-lane coastal road at 120 mph. I was praying that if I ever made it out of that car alive, I would never again accept a ride from a perfect stranger. And I would be good to all people. And I would make my bed every day. And I would be kind to cats. I think I made a whole lot of deals with God on that ride. And since we arrived safely to Abu Walid's seaside resort apartment, I guess I'd better go feed the neighborhood strays.

The apartment was sort of a weekend retreat for Abu Walid and family. Since it was currently vacant, he invited JZ and me to enjoy the place. There was a large pool out back and a bit beyond that, the Mediterranean Sea washed into another swimming area. You could jump off the rocks right into the sea. So JZ and I enjoyed it. For one day. Then two. Three days were not enough. So we stayed another. And another. Each day Abu Walid would check on us to make sure we were OK. He took us out for nice fresh fish dinners. He brought us medicine when we had a headache. He hired a driver to give us a day tour of Tripoli and the surrounding area. He invited us to his home to meet his family and show us his artifact collection. Evenings he engaged us in religious and spiritual conversations. This Lebanese Arab Muslim, a complete stranger, did everything possible to make sure that these German and American Christians were totally comfortable.

And Abu Walid would not accept a dime for his efforts! I attempted to pay for a meal, and he was greatly offended. I had dishonored him and his family. So JZ suggested that we use some of his special talents and play music for our hosts. So Abu Walid and family were treated to an evening of JZ's special skills. I didn't do much. I mumbled words to songs and hoped that no one could hear me. JZ was excellent as usual.

I truly think that Abu Walid wanted us to stay longer. I think that he enjoyed our evening times together. I think that he also felt it was part of his spiritual duties to take in strangers. In his home there was another guest staying with the family. This gentleman could not hear or speak. Evidently he had come begging to Abu Walid's home one day, so Abu Walid just took him in. Another total stranger living with the family. And the man was obviously enjoying his time in Abu Walid's home. And I think Abu Walid was enjoying hosting him. We all had a pretty good time together laughing and semi-signing. Since Abu Walid could not speak English, JZ was happy to translate.

I'm still amazed at the hospitality shown by this man, but I guess it shouldn't surprise me. Most of the Arabs I have met have been hospitable. They go out of their way to make sure that guests are comfortable. Still, this was a week at a Mediterranean resort...

Dive into the Med!

JZ relaxing by the sea.

Me and Abu Walid