Sunday, February 13, 2011

Egypt: Hidden Gems amidst the conflict

I don't know about you but I couldn't help but be glued to the news reports coming out of Egypt the last two weeks. It holds special interest to me because I toured and had the chance to speak throughout Egypt in 2003 and came to know the people there as some of the warmest, most generous you'll ever meet. It doesn't shock me that the protestors were able to keep their focus amidst being charged and attacked.

Through all the drama, there are some amazing stories that have and will continue to unfold that have yet to be shared.

Donna and I have friends who work in Egypt and the story of their neighbourhood is one worth sharing. In the absence of the police and law and order neighbourhoods were forced to start there own "Block Watch" programs. Their's was no exception.

People of different cultures, faiths & languages banded together under one cause and bonds were formed and strengthened like they never would have been before. They kept watch together through day and night, taking turns protecting their homes. In a strange but familiar way, conflict has brought people together!

This inspiring story that continues to unfold has reminded me that while we can't avoid conflict in our lives we will always have something to take from it. Gold is refined through fire and so are our best relationships.

That has been my experience!