Egypt has about a million faults. It has garbage everywhere. The streets are not safe. The political process is still a sight for sore eyes. Today, I want to focus on one thing that the country of Egypt doesn’t have, which is devastation.
Yes there are many tragedies, kidnappings, killings, but not enough to declare the country of Egypt in a state of devastation.
Syria does not have the same luxury at the moment; they are struggling between living under ISIS or the Regime, or with the Rebels. The holiday season is upon us. This is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus, to spend time with our families, cherish memories and moments that gives us the very meaning of life. It is also a time, where loneliness and depression is felt for those who have no one to celebrate with. I don’t mean to create this air of sadness, but I want us to take a moment to remember that we are blessed in this life.
Just today it was announced that the first wave of Syrian refugees are arriving in Canada’s largest city, Toronto, and then moving on to some smaller cities. Parents are arriving with their babies in hand. Why am I making a big deal out of this? I will explain. When I see this, I think about the parents I know. The mom doesn’t only carry her baby, but she carries her baby, and the baby bag, with a blanket maybe, diapers, change of clothes, milk, the list goes on and on. The mom doesn’t carry only her baby, but everything that comes with her baby. Refugees are arriving with nothing but their baby in hand.
How desperate must things be in Syria that the parent is forced to only bring their baby, and not think about what the baby might need? How terrible must it be, to arrive in a new country with nothing but the clothes on their backs, and family members? They have no idea of what kind of life awaits them. They are not sure if they will return to Syria one day, or will make a permanent home away from their country.
Where will you be this holiday season? In your warm apartment? Making lots of delicious meals to share among family members? I hope everyone here in Egypt can take a moment from criticizing their country and their life, to really be thankful for everything they have. Some people literally have nothing, and no one. Pray for them.
