Living abroad has it’s ups and downs, advantages and disadvantages, but sure is a hell of an experience. And whether you’re happy about it or not, there’s a lot to experience and a whole lot to learn.
From my pyramid to yours, here’s what I’ve learnt as an Egyptian living in Canada
1. You are not the only Arab
There are so many Arabs in Canada, particularly in Ottawa, Toronto, or Montreal. Not only that, but they can sense you, they see you, and they will make you their friend one or way another.
2. Cultures are more than just food and language
Canada is a diverse place, but it has still maintained its roots in Western culture. Not every country is as culturally warm as your own, and while you can definitely make friends from other nations, do NOT expect to be your full self around them or to be able to understand one another 100%.
3. Find those you are comfortable around, or otherwise keep to yourself
One thing I’ve learned the hard way is to just enjoy your own company, rather than be around those you don’t feel entirely comfortable around. It is infinitely better to actually be alone than to surround yourself with people who make you feel lonely.
4. It is OK to be conservative sometimes
Nobody wants to be thought of as the close-minded Arab, and so I sometimes find myself going out of my way to make sure the person in front of me understands I am not a judgemental mean prude. I was wrong to do that, if I can go out of my way to make sure someone doesn’t feel judged, then they can deal with the fact that I am an old-fashioned brown girl sometimes.
5. Do NOT allow people to use you as a glossary
One of the worst things about being a POC (person of color) in the West, is that you are often asked to speak on behalf of your whole ethnicity or nation. You cannot and should not be expected to represent an entire region with neither your words, actions, or beliefs. No, I am not homophobic. Does all of Egypt agree with me? Bahahahaha!
6. People are ignorant
Yes guys, 200 years of colonialism and a Eurocentric education allows me to speak English pretty well. Did I live in a pyramid? Sure. Do I ride camels? Mhmm, I took camel-riding classes until I was 10. So tell me, does everyone here only learn things about other white countries?
7. You will eventually find a family
Assuming you have been put in the worst possible situation, such as me, and you are living all alone. Stop worrying, bruh. There are people out there, just as anxious, just as alone, and if you’re lucky… just as brown as you. You will find each other, hold one another’s hands, and sing Kumbaya. Just freaking socialize, and wait.
WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss 15 Signs You’re an Arab Living Abroad
