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What was new about this experience was that it included a homestay with Palestinian families in El-Bireh, in the Palestinian Authority. Just as important as the homestay was the theme: Understanding the Arab World." Yes, we went to enjoy hospitality and friendship in a new place. But we also went to learn about the Arab World-the culture, the religion, yes, even the politics of this important region. Much of what we learned was enjoyable as we marveled at the ancient culture that has shaped the region for centuries. Some of what we learned was disturbing, as we heard the emotions of people caught up in a divided region. The homestay confirmed my belief that even in the very difficult places of the world, friendship and hospitality can be shared. And it is in these areas that people are longing to share their lives and their stories with the outside world. I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed my two days in the home of Dakhlallah and Faouzieh Kahook. This is the type homestay experience I want all our members to have. We are now working with our new friends in El-Bireh to organize a regular Friendship force club so that many more can gain their own firsthand understanding of the Arab world. At the same time, we will be working to expand our program throughout Israel, as well as in the other neighboring countries. While in the region we made new connections in Jordan and Syria, and we helped celebrate the new club leadership in Cairo, I challenged them to quickly establish a second club in Egypt, probably in the city of Alexandria. The Middle East is a crucial region, and in the months and years ahead I want The Friendship Force to have an even stronger presence. One initiative that I am undertaking is to find funding for a project called: "Understanding the Islamic World." This will begin with a focus on the Arab communities of the Middle East but will also include new programs in Indonesia and other Islamic regions of the world. In addition to forming new clubs in these regions, the program will provide structured learning experiences for the Ambassadors who participate so they will be able to develop a much deeper appreciation for Islamic culture. Understanding the Arab and the Islamic Worlds is a high priority for me. So also is China. We have a good program in Nanjing that enables Friendship Force Ambassadors to meet local citizens, sharing time in their homes. Next year we will be adding Guiyang to this program, along with several other cities. China has the world's largest population and is increasingly looking for international connections. The Friendship Force can provide an important vehicle for China's internationalization in the years ahead. New opportunities in the Middle East, the Islamic World, China, and much more. We're headed back to Iran this summer, and our program in Cuba continues to grow. We'll soon be opening new programs in Nepal and Romania along with new clubs in some of our traditional countries. It's a great time to be with The Friendship Force! Your friend Chip Carter |
