Summary

The article "Beyond Pyramids and Pharaohs, the People Are Egypt’s Real Treasure" celebrates the warmth, generosity, and vibrant culture of the Egyptian people, emphasizing that they are the country's greatest asset.

Abstract

The author of the article expresses deep admiration for the Egyptian people, highlighting seven distinct qualities that make them inspiring. These include their use of affectionate nicknames, selflessness in putting others' needs first, legendary generosity, enthusiasm for celebrations, optimistic outlook expressed through the phrase "inshallah," a rich sense of humor, and a profoundly romantic nature. The piece underscores that beyond the historical landmarks that draw tourists, it is the everyday interactions with Egyptians that truly define the country's spirit and make it a special place to live and visit.

Opinions

The author believes that the kindness, humor, and generosity of Egyptians make them stand out as the country's true treasure, overshadowing the famous historical sites.
Egyptians are described as incredibly selfless, prioritizing the well-being of others, even strangers, as seen in the anecdote about the lost wallet and the offer of a spare bedroom.
The article suggests that Egyptian hospitality is unmatched, with locals treating guests like royalty and insisting on providing comforts such as house shoes and meals.
The author is impressed by the Egyptian approach to challenges, using humor and optimism to navigate difficult situations, as reflected in their language and daily interactions.
The romantic inclinations of Egyptians are portrayed as next-level, with grand gestures that make individuals feel exceptionally special.
The piece conveys a sense of gratitude for the author's experiences in Egypt, indicating that living among such inspiring people has been a transformative and enriching experience.

Beyond Pyramids and Pharaohs, the People Are Egypt’s Real Treasure

7 Ways Egyptians Inspire Me

What you don’t know about Egyptian people is they are some of the kindest, funniest, and most inspiring people you will ever meet. There’s so much more to Egypt than Pyramids and Pharaohs. You might arrive as a foreigner, but soon after, you are family.

The people are the real treasure of Egypt.

#7 Nicknames

Nicknames are important in Egypt. I used to have a few growing up — Lizard, and Wendall, for example. But in Egypt, there’s a sweetness to the art of nicknames.

I often take taxis, and I’ve begun to notice a curious thing — the names of people on the driver’s mobile phone. I’m in the backseat, so I can see names come up on the driver’s phone.

A few of the names I’ve seen are my heart, the queen, my rose, and my soul…so lovely and expressive.

#6 Selflessness

Egyptians put off their plans to help you with big or small things. If you are ill, they drop everything and come to take care of you and won’t take no for an answer.

I’ve been sick the last week, and five friends offered to bring me groceries, medicine, and otherwise sit with me. They make sure you eat well, give you home remedies, and check in with you twice daily.

Another example is when I lost my wallet on a bus. One woman was so concerned about me that she handed me some cash and insisted I could stay in her spare bedroom if I couldn't afford my rent.

#5 Generosity

Egyptian generosity is legendary. My previous landlady used to invite me for lunch on Fridays. Afterward, she’d send me away with a huge plate of mahshy (a local dish of stuffed vegetables) because she knew it was my favorite.

Egyptians welcome you to their home like a Pharaoh and even make sure you have house shoes or slippers upon arrival. After lunch, if you’re tired, they won’t let you leave but rather insist you nap instead.

#4 Celebrations

If you are lucky enough to have a circle of Egyptian friends, you know they show you kindness and care at every opportunity.

Birthdays are serious business for Egyptians, and it’s not uncommon to throw two or three parties for one person!

You will feel like royalty if you have a birthday in Egypt because the joy and spirit of the people can’t be contained.

#3 No is not an option

Egyptians don’t say no; they say inshallah (if God wills it) to preserve a sense of optimism — and your feelings.

In turn, they won’t take no for an answer from you!

Don’t even think of trying to pay for lunch, refuse an invitation, or another helping of food. It’s an endearing quality and one of the things I love most about Egyptians.

#2 Humour

Egypt can be a challenging place to live — from electricity cuts to insane traffic and severe weather; it’s never boring.

When things get tough, Egyptians love to joke around. Humour runs in their veins, and they make an art of it.

Egyptian Arabic has hundreds of phrases to tickle your funny bone. For example, “Temot El-Raa’sa We Westaha Beylaa’b.” “The belly dancer dies while her waist is still moving” is the more comic Egyptian version of “old habits die hard.”

#1 Ahh, romance

Egyptians are more romantic than Shakespeare ever dreamed — translation: they make you feel super special.

Arabic is a decisively poetic language, and many Egyptians make excellent use of this. Everyone has their own love language, but Egyptians are next-level romantics.

The treatment is on point, from poetry to teddy bears to chocolate and flowers. Coming from the West, where Netflix and a pizza are the standards, I’m inspired by Egyptians enthusiasm and flair for romance.

In the end

Egyptians have inspired the world through art, monuments, inventions, and a zest for life, for thousands of years.

People from around the globe travel to Egypt to witness the history of one of the world's greatest civilizations.

I’m lucky to live here because Egypt is my little slice of paradise.

I leave you with a snippet of an ancient Egyptian love poem to ponder.

The Flower Song

To hear your voice is pomegranate wine to me:

I draw life from hearing it.

Could I see you with every glance,

It would be better for me

Than to eat or to drink.

If you really want to be inspired, check out the work of Anthi Psomiadou this week and let her words take you on a journey inward.

I need coffee strong enough to wake up my ancestors! You can buy me one here if you enjoy my scribblings! Many thanks, xoxo

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