Thoughts…Antioch
Always expect the unexpected. As we departed for the ancient city of Antakya, or Antioch, I realized I had forgotten my camera and my tape recorder.
After visiting the second largest mosaic museum in the world we went to a great Turkish restaurant that was packed with local residents having lunch. As our lunch courses began to arrive, a group of students from a nearby high school swarmed in and filled two tables. I could barely keep my attention on the conversations around me as I waited to leap out of my seat to the tables being filled by the young Turkish students.After some hesitations and inhaling wonderful food, I followed my excitement to interrupt their conversations. To their surprise I appeared out of nowhere and asked “Do you speak English”? After they recovered, they excitedly began to communicate with me in any way they could. Through some English, some interpretations from the more fluent in English students, and through the use of our hands and expressions, we connected!
In the few short moments we had, I learned that they would like to visit America but they do not like America, the people or the politics. They think America does not have the culture that Europe has and that Americans only take. I believe they are referring to Americans taking resources from their part of the world. What do they think of President Obama, I asked? This small group from one small part of the country, say they like him but think he is only trying to change the world’s opinion of America. They are not sure he can but they will wait and see. Our guide, Erol, who is very well educated, remarked that these students have only known the Bush Administration so they have a more negative view. He will help me talk to other students around the country.
I am only an ambassador for the Generation Connex young adults…I am in Turkey and they are not with me. I have exchanged email adresses with these students and we will invite them into the Generation Connex community.
Until my next encounter with Turkish youth…
Peace, Harmony and Good wishes.
Tags: generation connect, turkey, turkish restaurants, turkish youth