Living in the Middle East has been an amazing experience. I think the biggest thing has been what we've learnt about people and different people groups. Apparently there are over 180 nationalities represented here in Dubai, so in any given day you can meet people from all over the world. To give you an idea, we've made friends with South Africans (of course!), Zimbabweans, Lebanese, Brits, Scots, Swedes, Indians, Egypteans, Australians, families from Zanzibar, Denmark and Botswana, Canadians, Americans, and local Emirates! Everybody has their own uniqueness and specialities, people have different ways of expressing gratitude, haste and love, we all have our own way of doing things, and being here has taught me to accept that there are these differences. It's been a challenge, but a good one!
The locals are really the kindness, most caring people group I've come across. And I think that was the biggest eye-opener. The world has a very set view on the Muslims as a whole, but I haven't met one of those "typical" Muslims yet.
It's still hard to be away from home, I don't know if that will ever change. South Africa is just so naturally beautiful but the biggest factor is because there are so many people there that make it so difficult to leave. And I thank each one of you for that. You've made life tougher for us this side, but it's worth it!
