It is really common for people in America to forget specific presidents and conflicts in their country's history, but that does not hold true with anyone I have met in Jordan. People here care deeply about their history, culture and traditions. Even people here who say they want to stay uninvolved in history and politics know more than the typical American who says the same thing.
The different cultures comprising Jordan is what makes the country what it is. As a foreigner, I hope that I can add my own perspective to this country I have called home these past few months. Before leaving Jordan, I want to leave a positive impact on the culture and community around me, as well as to learn from local Jordanians and the other people I have met who have immigrated to this country. I will admit that I came to Jordan with the idea that this country has the same culture of patriotic solidarity as the United States; however, many people here have made me realize that this simply is not feasible in Jordan. It was important for me to note the range of perspectives here, in order to better understand the Middle East. This was a major factor behind my decision to spend my summer quarantined in Jordan rather than return to my home state in the United States. Although COVID-19 quarantining is relatively the same in both countries, (social distancing, closed shops, food delivery only) the people and culture in each place are vastly different. And that is why I chose to come to Jordan in the first place!
Stepping out of your own culture to exchange perspectives somewhere else cannot be more highly rated. Sometimes I worry that I am just taking from the culture around me and have nothing to offer in return.
