Metamorphis

Submitted by Isis (Australia), Feb 25, 2009 at 22:11

Dear Becreative.

I'm sorry if you think that I was scaring you re the "Orfi" I remember when I found out that it was illegal for an Egyptian man to be in the company of a foreign woman in Egypt without this "Ofi"paper or either a civil or religious marriage - I was horrified to put it mildly! Never would I have imagined that such a restrictive law could exist anywhere on this earth. I too went through a lot of anxiety before I embarked on a relationship with my Egyptian husband. Getting to know the culture perhaps was the biggest hurdle and understanding why they think the way they do and why they act the way they do particularly in a relationship with a woman.

I must admit that there were some moments initially when I could have said that it was all too hard but patience and understanding from both of us has over time resolved the issues. Neither of us wanted to "give up" and walk away and the result has been a good understanding and respect of the other's culture.

One thing that many westerners don't really understand about Egyptians is that they don't have girlfriends - this is not permitted under Islam. They only develop a relationship with a female as a wife and this is why these relationships seem rushed to outsiders. It is just the way things are done in Egypt. Also, their culture embodies romance - this is in their music and literature. The Egyptian youth listen to Arabic pop songs which are all about romance and stars in their eyesand fast beating hearts and so on. This is why "love" is declared early on in the romance.

As for learning Arabic - why not? Extend your knowledge and be aware - it can only serve you better.

All the best.

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