A couple of nights ago, having worked late on a project in the office, my friend, Iman and I went to have dinner at a newly opened Syrian restaurant down the street. We had noticed it earlier when the loud sounds of music and merriment were heard drifting down towards our office.
When we reached there, we noticed several young folk sitting around a group of tables singing and talking. I assumed that it was a birthday party for someone and did not pay it any mind. However the music was very infectious and I found myself drumming along on the table as the older men and women got up to do the “Dabke” the traditional Arabic festive dance.
As my friend and I were enjoying our Syrian meal, it started to rain and we quickly were ushered inside into the table free dancing zone. Luckily there was a free table in the side where we continued to eat our meal. By this point, the dancing and music was reaching fever pitch and at one point, I found myself clapping along in rhythm without realising that I was doing it.
After our meal, we sat watching for a while when a formally dressed man approached me and shook my hand. He introduced himself as the Syrian Ambassador and proceeded to talk to me. He informed me that the people here were celebrating their victory in the Paralympic friendly match against Malaysia. It was then that I noticed a handful of the group as being Blind and another group in wheelchairs. The Ambassador introduced me to a teammate named, Ali and then left my friend and I alone.
Afterwards as we were leaving the restaurant, he caught us and insisted that we stay for some birthday cake. It turned out that one of the kids had their birthday on the same day. Feeling unable to resist the hospitality, we sat back down and had a huge slice of delicious Chocolate cake. Having finished the cake, we felt rude about leaving without saying bye, but the Ambassador was busy taking publicity photos.
Soon, we saw our chance and caught his attention. Shaking his hand I thanked him for the cake and the hospitality, whereby he proceeded to hand me his Card incase I needed to contact me. As we were leaving, I realised that the entire time the Ambassador had never talked or looked at my female friend. Apparently, Iman told me, it is out of respect. Whatever the reason, it was an eye opening experience at the community spirit and social graces of a People that I have never really encountered.
One this is for sure, I shall definitely be going back and that time may join in the dancing…
