How do you recognize that someone is Syrian? Are there any common characteristics?
Syrians are distinguished for being kind to everyone, even to strangers. For example, a Syrian would rush to give a helping hand to a blind person to cross the street. Another instance, a Syrian would immediately help an old person carrying heavy things into his/her house. A Syrian will stop any man trying to annoy a girl in the street. Syrian people hate injustice and are ready to help others even if they are strangers. Syrians are generous and they love being unique and successful in their work and in anything they do. Wherever they go, they prove that they are cultured and distinguished people.
Can you tell our readers about your daily life before the war and about your daily life now?
the explosions in Damascus made living there very dangerous. That led me to decide to move to my hometown…
Before the war I used to work as a journalist at AL-Watan newspaper. My job was very exciting and interesting. I was able to walk in every street of Damascus safely. Although I had to go to work, I had time to take care of my family and my house. However, the explosions in Damascus made living there very dangerous. That led me to decide to move to my hometown, where I stayed for a while. Recently, I came back to Damascus and resumed my work at Al Watan newspaper. I thought that the situation would be better than it was when I left; it turned out to be the opposite. Moreover, the number of crimes has increased; there is no safety and security in my country anymore. There is more fear for children’s safety. However, I chose to come back and stay in Damascus because of my love for the city and for my work, and because I want my kids to get a better education at a school in Damascus, particularly my daughter, who is in her final year at secondary school.
What would you like the world to know about Syria and its people?
I want the world to know that Syrians are educated people and they love life. Syrians help whoever is in need. Syrians stand by the oppressed. Syrians are patient; they endure hardships; they are creative and talented; and they are loyal people.
What has united Syrians, and what can unite them again?
Syrians are united with their love for their homeland and their love for life. They all seek living in peace and want a safe and secure life, and then they will be able to rebuild their country. Syrians will not let anyone occupy their country; they hate injustice, and slavery. Unfortunately, the war is hindering Syrians’ progress toward achieving the development they want for their country. However, Syrians are resisting all types of extermination applied against them in this war.
Can you tell readers about something that has touched your heart and given you hope?
Despite all the sadness and hardships brought to us by this war, I feel that there is still hope whenever I look at a flower; at a tree; at a kid laughing; at my son or at my daughter. I believe we can make life beautiful once again. Everyone must fight in their own special way to defend their country in a war that aims to destroy the people and their history.
I feel that there is still hope whenever I look at a flower; at a tree; at a kid laughing; at my son or at my daughter.
From ‘Beloved Syria – Considering Syrian Perspectives’, September 2017 Edition
