We set off on our tour and had our first interaction with some communication students. It was clear from what we saw in that classroom, that these Jordanian students were no different than the students of Bridgewater State University. Questions about culture, lifestyle, religion, and human relations (among others), were exchanged between the Jordanian students as our insightful dialogue began. A mutual interest, respect and understanding were the foundations for many more in-depth conversations, which help us bridge the Jordanian culture with the American culture. Clearly, education, dialogue and listening is the way to have more cooperation and intercultural communication between, in this case, us Americans and our friends the Jordanians and the Middle East.
At noon, the president once again invited us to dine with him at a formal lunch, where we were honored with an emblem from Yarmouk University.
The remainder of our day consisted of visiting Umm Qais, which was once a key trading center between Syria and Palestine. After joining the Roman Empire in 63 B.C., this town flourished intellectually and was known for its scholars, writers, artists, philosophers and poets. Umm Qais also overlooks the Golan Heights in Syria, Lake Tiberias, the Gaza Strip, and Jerusalem. Including the ampitheater, and other historical features, Umm Qais left a lasting impression on us.
Before calling it a night, our friend Mohammad invited us to his cousin’s traditional Jordanian bachelor party, which included Debka (the traditional dance in the Jordanian culture).
Don't think that the lack of comments means a lack of interest...your blog is my first stop on the computer each morning! Thanks for sharing...love to Samantha!
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