January & February 2001
Guest List
S U HAD-B YOU HAD OPENED PANDORA'S BOX SO DEAL WITH IT
CORRECTLY. TAKE REPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR ACTION.
concerned mom <WASH D.CJ>
any where, USA - Wednesday, February 28, 2001 at 18:49:56 (PST)
Well said SB.
JA
Motown, MI USA - Wednesday, February 28, 2001 at 15:31:14 (PST)
To Israeli Occupied, I think you are ignorant. You stated
it is a fact that so-called Arab girls here in America do not
respect the Arab men in their community. 1) where is there
suppport for your argument? 2) Lets say if a girl does not
respect an Arab man, does he deserve her respect? 3) Are you
talking about your own experiences with your sisters and mother?
Because I certainty respect everyone, as do my relatives. 4) Are
you talking about personal experince, that Arab girls don't
respect you, because you don't deserve it. Respect should always
be earned.
SB
Houston, TX USA - Wednesday, February 28, 2001 at 06:56:15 (PST)
Ok, No Name Provided.. and everyone else.. here is
something to think about. Morals and values are something that is
taught by your parents, not something that automatically comes
with a birthright. And, they are something that the child CHOOSES
to adopt. From an American female, if these Arabic girls that are
being spoken about are anything like me, then the Arabic culture
should be proud to have them. I dated two guys before I met my
husband. If I hadn't, then I would not have known the qualities I
wanted in my mate. I am 30 years old and started dating my
husband right before I turned 18. Throughout the years we have
been together, I have dressed in almost every way imaginable. I
dress the way I feel each morning I wake up. If I dressed skimpy
and got attention, it wasn't the negative attention because of
the way I carried myself. This all stems back to the way I was
raised and choose to be. I did not go out drinking or taking
drugs. I went to school and made good grades. Growning up, I had
tons of friends and still do. I do not look down on anyone
because of the way they dress or look. I get to know people who
have bad reputations, and the majority of them turn out to be
very nice people with good morals. Jealousy and ignorance is what
gave them bad reps. Put a label on someone and 9 times out of 10,
they will live up to the label - even if it is not accurate of
the way the person really is. Look the other way if you don't
like how someone else looks or acts. If it is not illegal or
hurting you or your family... why be so harsh. How would everyone
feel about non-Arabs viewing you as being such a volitile culture
- not because of the fighting going on in Palestine, but because
of the way everyone is bickering and being hateful. You can say
just as powerful words without being so accusatory or mean. Maybe
nice is out???
TLF <farhat_93@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, February 28, 2001 at 06:45:49 (PST)
People are raising some points in this guestbook that are
interesting. But there is one thing that is the poisen that
filters through our cultures blood and that is when a person
doesn't mind there own business. Ramallah people spend to much
time wondering what this person is doing, or what that person did
and that is the filth that embaresses me. Spend more time
worrying about yourself and gaining a higher ground on life and
less time wondering what so and so's daughter is doing in her
college dorm room. That girl is going to do what she is going to
do. Who are we to say that it is our business??? You worry about
you, and I'll worry about me.
Jordan Ghannam <pstnprince@aol.com>
Detroit, Mi USA - Wednesday, February 28, 2001 at 05:34:22 (PST)
To Mr. Gaston , I agree totally with you. and thanks for
your support for my countries problem. Keep spreading the word,
the truth needs to be out !
Kai
USA - Tuesday, February 27, 2001 at 17:54:03 (PST)
All i got to say is that everyone needs to spend some time
with their grandparents , or go to ramallah, or read up about the
culture and tradtions ! because all this talk is nonsense!
Kai
TX - Tuesday, February 27, 2001 at 11:30:36 (PST)
To Mr. No Name, If you claim to be unbiased, please stop
using the term "so-called" arabic females. We are
Arab-Americans...all of us! Also, I would like to know your
definition of "freedom". Is it wrong for an arab girl
to go out socially with friends? Is it wrong for a girl to move
away and go to college? Are we supposed to sit in our dorm room
while others go out because that is what an "arab girl"
should do? I think we all know that everyone is allowed to have
fun. We are all raised with good morals. Everyone that I know
makes wise decisions and uses discretion while going out. Maybe
you are focusing on select people that you know? It certainly
isn't the case here.
KN
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, February 27, 2001 at 10:05:08
(PST)
I think that whenever there are extremes,storms tend to
brew. This whole idea of the girls from the community not being
able to date before marriage creates enough tension for them to
run out to the wrong people or sneak around doing
"mysterious" things. However, too much of something is
not good either. Moderation is definitely the key. Now that the
young community is coming of age, as parents how would you
"school" your children on such matters? Is oppression
and rigidness on dating to be enforced or is a more lenient
stance to be taken on this subject? If the leniency is chosen
what measures would be taken to enforce these new governing rules
and what would those rules be? This is for both the young men and
women in the community...
Miriam
Houston, TX USA - Monday, February 26, 2001 at 21:43:00 (PST)
I am a WOMAN...of Ramallah descent...born in AMERICA. No
biased mentality to me whatsoever...and IF you think I will be
respectful to my fellow Arabs JUST because they are men, then let
my AMERICANIZED FEMALE MENTALITY tell you to KISS MY AMERICANIZED
FEMALE TEEEEEEZ!
No Name Provided
Jax, Fla USA - Monday, February 26, 2001 at 17:30:03 (PST)
To No Name Provided who is Israeli occupied but living in
the USA...I have no problem with the fact that you want to tell
everyone your opinion...On the other hand, it needs to stop when
you talk about the females in my community. If you think all the
girls back home do not have enough freedom and it's very
sad...why don't you go there and tell them all the BS you think.
That's just an idea, I don't know the reason why they probably
don't respect you, however, don't take your frustrations out on
the girls of my community. And what's with the "so-called
Arab" thing...you use it so often, it seems as if you think
your the superior Arab. AS AN EDUCATED ARAB MALE, just by saying
that...I haven't heard such ignorance...and by that habibi your
really not that educated. An educated man knows better than to
say something that ignorant.
Basheer Omar Zanayed <Gegolly@aol.com>
HOUSTON, TEXAS USA - Monday, February 26, 2001 at 16:38:21 (PST)
I am naturalized US citizen of French heritage. I am a long
time supporter of the Palestinian cause. I am saddenned by the US
Government blind allegiance to the Zionist lobby and the illegal,
illegitimate zionist nonentity. I hope the US, as one of the
world Western democracies join France to recognize the
aspirations of the Palestinian people who have been victimized by
Zionism, a creature of the US and British partition of Palestine
in 1940s. Anybody with a h uman conscience would never forget
Mohammed Al Durrah, a 12 years old Palestinian boy killed by IDF
with weapons & ammunition subsidized by the American
taxpayers. It's about time the US taxpayers demand an end to the
subsidy of weapons of wars to the zionist nonentity and channel
financial humanitarian aids to the Palestinian Authority. People
of goodwill in the US and around the world stand side by side
with you in your intifada to reclaim your rigths to return to a
free, democratic, secular and prosperous PALESTINE with its
capital AL QUDS AL SHARIFF. IF ANYBODY KNOW WHERE I CAN PURCHASE
A KAFFIYEH, PLZ LET ME KNOW; GASTON YOUNGER
YOUNGERFRANCOIS@AOL.COM
GASTON YOUNGER <Youngerfrancois@AOL.COM>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Monday, February 26, 2001 at 14:46:22
(PST)
Enough is enough. I am sick and tired of certain men who
are stereo typing women. Just because some women do things that
they aren't supposed to, doesn't mean that all women are the
same. Also, if a man wants a woman's respect, that man then owes
respect to that woman. What comes around goes around!!
No Name Provided
USA - Monday, February 26, 2001 at 07:23:17 (PST)
I am sorry to say this, but the majority of females who
write articles in here have absolutely no idea what they are
talking about. I also do not appreciate my education and
integrity being questioned either. I am not being a biased male
or anything, but it is a fact that the so-called arab girls here
in America do not respect the Arab men in their community at all.
I strongly believe that some Arab women back home (in certain
countries, not all) do not have enough freedom (and it is very
sad, I was there), however I also beleive that the so-called Arab
women here have way too much freedom and they do not know how to
handle it either. There needs to be a moderate balance, otherwise
our community will not prosper and grow together. The so-called
Arab females here demand this and that all day and everyday, but
they are not prepared to give at all (this is the american way of
living by the way). As an educated Arab male, I would never want
someone like that. Just an opinion based on what I have seen in
our community recently....
No Name Provided
Israeli Occupied, USA - Saturday, February 24, 2001 at 10:30:31
(PST)
So...we come to the same statements that we have been
hearing before... Men not being sensitive to women; arabs
sticking to the old regime... The Princess and the Marine... The
girl stood up for what she believed. That is her life. Alot of
people that condemn that type of behavior do so because they can
not follow in those footsteps. I know of alot of people from the
arabic community that are in love with people out of their race.
However, in fear of their parents, they tend to wed to please
their parents. Their hearts are somewhere else, and the person
that they marry in the end has to pay the consequences. There are
a whole slew of situations that can further embellish this whole
discussion. There are very promiscuous women of the community
that end up marrying to a arab man after going through a whole
slew of possiblities. Some have gone through the sinister
operation that is now known around the world to assure the
gentlemen of her genuineness. The men on the other hand go
through a whole list of women just to get the whole
"manhood" situation out of their system. They go
through everyone outside of their race if possible. Some go
through the whole dilusional process of creating a fallacy of a
relationship with someone outside of their race; this places that
person in a very arduous position. My question is...what are we
to do? Everyone is going to have an opinion and I am not saying
anything that is not known. I am tired of people being condemned
for what they believe in. No one is a saint, and it is not to say
that their are not good men or women out there--from any race.
The ethnocentrism has to be moderated a bit. We have to look at
the world that we live in a more realistic manner. Now that we as
the young adults are to take charge of our future...what do we
think we should follow and teach?
Miriam
Houston, TX USA - Friday, February 23, 2001 at 20:35:58 (PST)
To TLF AND kATHY...yOU ARE ABSOLUTELY RIGHT.SOME OF OUR
BOYS COME FROM SUPPRESSED HOMES AND WANT NO FREEDOM OR EQUALITY
FOR OUR WOMEN/BEST TO IGNORE THEM SAL S, KHOURY
SALSKHOURY#AOL.COM
No Name Provided
USA - Friday, February 23, 2001 at 19:38:10 (PST)
Ok, I tried to read the past few entries without
commenting, but, I just can't anymore. As far as people thinking
that the Arabic females over here are becoming too
Americanized... just what does that term mean? The US is a great
country to live in. Just because females have more opportunities
over here and takes advantage of them, why does that make them
wrong?!? And what about Arabic guys?? The Arabic guys and girls
listen to the same music, speak the same, drive the same types of
cars, hang out at the same places, act basically the same, etc.
So why are only the females being scrutinized?? (No, this isn't a
boy vs. girl thing again - it's a people thing!!) People adapt to
their environments. Why is it so wrong to adopt some of the
"ways" of one's country of residence? If that is the
case, then was it wrong for an American woman to marry a
Palestinian, learn his language fluently, leave her family and
friends to go to Ramallah with him and call it home? No. Neither
situation is wrong. If you do not live in the US, you do not have
a right to condem anyone for being "too Americanized."
Trust me... if you are living in an oppressed country (by this I
mean less opportunites than the US) and came over here with all
the freedom choices, you would take advantage of it in your own
way. And, if they way someone is acting does not directly
threaten you, then let them be. It is not up to anyone
(regardless of culture, etc) to judge others. We all answer to
God in the end. Slamming someone else for what you think is wrong
is not going to make anyone a better person. You are different
from me. I am different from you. We are different from my best
friend. You are different from your cousins, etc. We are all
different from each other in the fact that we choose to be like
we are. Don't let anyone else's actions threaten your sense of
being. The nasty comments and slurs are the little things that
breeds hatred. And, the biggest harm on ANY culture is it being
pulled at by trivial things! Think about it!!
TLF <farhat_93@hotmail.com>
USA - Friday, February 23, 2001 at 08:37:22 (PST)
Mr. No Name, On behalf of Lora and all arab women, I would
just like to say that you are an uneducated fool. Although many
countries in The Middle East have become liberal does not mean
that the people of those countries will change too. I moved to
Florida about a year ago and I have met many arabs from The
Middle East who are here on scholarships. We talk about issues
such as this a lot. The men in The Middle East are raised to
believe that they are always right and a women is wrong. There is
no respect for women. Yet without them, would you be here. NO!!
Recall the story about a young arabic girl, from Cleveland. She
was killed by her own family because she did not want to marry
her cousin. Is that what you call liberal. This proves my point
exactly. Those people live in a liberal country, The United
States of America, and yet there minds are still set in the old
times. You can only know what you are told, and unless you are a
women and have been in a situation where you are discriminated on
because you are a women, you, my friend, will NEVER know how it
feels. Is this how you treat women??
Kathy
Orlando, Fl USA - Thursday, February 22, 2001 at 12:36:07 (PST)
http://humanityonhold.com/intifada.html
Please visit this website, and make sure you turn up your volume.
The truth hurts more than we can imagine!
Miranda Bateh <TooCutie427@aol.com>
Jacksonville , Fla USA - Thursday, February 22, 2001 at 12:02:13
(PST)
Ok,everyone, I WANT you to listen up please. My father
served in the US ARMY for 3 years. And yes i am from Ramallah. I
just want everyone to know how proud and how much I LOVE
PALESTINE. i love America too. I am proud to be a daughter of a
US veteren. My father honored this country and represented his
freedom through the service. SECONDLY, i have 2 thoughts on the
PRINCESS AND THE MARINE. I think it was wrong of her to leave her
family, however, that was her only choice. SO BE IT. And I
seriously hope she knows what shes doing. And I hope she loves
him enough. and it wasnt because he was the first guy she could
speak too. She might have fallen inlove with an Arab. Who knows.
Lets hope she stays and lives her married life to the happiest.
Leave her alone. This is life not the 1800's. p.s. for No Name,He
does not hate Arabs. He didnt have to propose to her, and kill
his rankings as a Marine for her.
No Name Provided
CALIFORNIA, USA - Thursday, February 22, 2001 at 10:27:00 (PST)
Lora, I agree with most of what you said, but don't use
that sorry story as a excuse to promote the feminist movement
because that would be very silly. Unfortunately, a lot of
so-called Arabs girls are doing just that, acting like american
women. I don't agree at all with arranged marriages, and I have
to say that very few Arabs still preactice that kind of stuff
these days. But thanx for the expected comments though...
No Name Provided
Israeli Occupied, USA - Wednesday, February 21, 2001 at 20:52:31
(PST)
To Mr. No name provided... I do know how to read and write
thankyou very much!!! I was NOT generalizing all arabs and I do
know for a fact that Palestine and Lebanon are becoming more
liberal as the days go by... and I only know this because I have
been to Ramallah many times... most recently this past summer. So
please DO NOT insult my intelligence. If you had some sense about
this, you would know that many, not all, women have no say on who
they marry. Women are condemned to absolute truth. It's just sad
and I can't believe that you have no sympathy. How do we not
surprise you one bit?? Many women in the middle east are told day
by day what they CAN'T do.. and are told practically nothing of
what they CAN do. Save it buddy.
Lora
USA - Wednesday, February 21, 2001 at 08:22:23 (PST)
For all the "supposed" arabs out there who don't
want to argue in favor of the Bahrainian princess to be locked up
or killed...IF your gonna make a point...make one that makes
sense. Your calling Lora "Illiterate"...if memory
serves us correctly...Illiteracy is the inability to comprehend
and understand words. So....how is Lora Illiterate? Speaking on
behalf of Lora's friends and family...I think we see who the
ignorant one is....
Theresa and Miranda *2/5 of your Finest* <No Email
Provided>
USA - Wednesday, February 21, 2001 at 07:49:50 (PST)
The Houston community was saddened on
Friday; Feb. 16, 2001 by the death of Rami Wajeh Khalaf. A young
man of 22 yrs that touched so many lives around the city. His
strength and courage was, and always will be an inspiration to
all that new him. He will be missed, but never forgotten. Much
love to his family and friends..May God rest his soul and may his
memory be eternal.
MK
Houston, TX USA - Tuesday, February 20, 2001 at 20:49:35 (PST)
Lora, you are an Arab (supposedly) just like me, but I am
sorry to say this. You sound like the great majority of so-called
Arab girls living here in America who have adopted the american
mentality on all kinds of social issues. Yes, I agree, that in
certain Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia or Iran), women rights are
very limited, but don't be illiterate and naive by generalizing
all Arabs as being that way. If you had an education on the
social issues of the Middle East, you would know that Palestine,
Lebanon, and Bahrain are among the most liberal and free
societies in the Middle East. But again, your attitude as a
so-called Arab female living here does not surprise me one bit.
Please stop the feminism, it sounds ridiculous....
No Name Provided
Israeli Occupied, USA - Tuesday, February 20, 2001 at 10:14:23
(PST)
Lora, I watched the movie The Princess and the Marine. It
was very good. I actully didn't know anything about it until last
Thursday when the real couple were Oparh. Then I found out about
the movie and was intersted in watching it. I thought it was very
intersting because I can't believe they would kill her if she was
to go back and visit. I didn't think that those countrys were
that crazy. I guess what she did was wrong to her family but to
murder her is not. Did you watch it? Or did anyone else, I would
love to hear other comments.
Maha <aham529@aol.com>
Detroit, Mi USA - Monday, February 19, 2001 at 18:03:40 (PST)
Just wanted to say "HI" to everyone that I
haven't talked to in a long time. To all of you back in D-town I
miss you and will come visit when I come home from school....and
to all my Jaxs girls....I miss you all! I am coming in May! Hope
everyone is having a good year....Janan, I hope your senior year
is awesome! I still think you should come to state! Love, Nadia
Shahin
Nadia Shahin <Nads109@aol.com>
East Lansing , Mi USA - Monday, February 19, 2001 at 16:59:06
(PST)
To concerned Arab---- I think I am going to speak for the
majority of Arab women... All of them, muslim, christian, and
athiests. If I lived the life of a Bahraini princess, or a saudi
princess, or any damn princess trapped like that... I sure as
helllll would run away too. I'd rather be happy and in love than
following my husbands rules. Men in those countries have NO
respect for women... absolutely NONE. And they even came out of a
woman. To everyone I reccomend reading "Princess" by
Jean P. Sasson and you all will know what I am talking about.
Also please visit www.equalitynow.org for womens rights in the
middle east. Thankyou.
Lora
Cleveland occupied, USA - Monday, February 19, 2001 at 13:42:29
(PST)
I think it is very sickening and sad that some of us, as
Arabs, are so excited to see that Bahraini princess run away from
her family and life to be here with an illiterate American
soldier who, himself, hates Arabs. What a joke....
No Name Provided
Israeli Occupied,, USA - Monday, February 19, 2001 at 11:13:18
(PST)
thank you very much for your eforts.
soha mohd <sailob@kma.org.kw>
kuwait, USA - Monday, February 19, 2001 at 08:24:05 (PST)
Seriously some of you people are really making this website
unpleasent. Could yall please focus on the more important issues
in our world??
No Name Provided
Houston , USA - Sunday, February 18, 2001 at 15:58:10 (PST)
I disagree that most young Arab women are bitter against
their fellow Arabs. Again, let's not have the comments of a few
individuals cloud our entire judgment on a group of people
whether it be due to their ethnicity, religion, or gender. But to
try and help answer JS's question, I think the problem is
triggered off by lack of advancement in people's thinking. If we
as a people ever hope to become stronger, we need to be more
accepting and inclusive. This means giving men and women,
children and adults, the proper respect each deserve. I think our
community is filled with a lot of talented and bright individuals
that can make a difference, and holding them back is only going
to hurt ourselves.
Petition
Nationwide, USA - Friday, February 16, 2001 at 13:13:32 (PST)
Hello fellow Ramallah-ans. I just wanted to advise everyone
to watch "The Princess and the Marine" sunday night on
NBC. It's about a Behraini princess who escaped her life for the
man she loved! Anyways... it sounds good... and I think it's
something everyone will enjoy. :-)
Lora Eadeh <LoLaLooLa@aol.com>
Cleveland, Oh USA - Thursday, February 15, 2001 at 13:36:34 (PST)
Message to SB in Houston......why do you have so much
bitterness against fellow Arabs? This is becoming a disturbing
trend with most of the young females these days. Putting your
people and culture first is important to me as an Arab (before
being an American)....
J S
Israeli Occupied, USA - Thursday, February 15, 2001 at 08:52:02
(PST)
Well said Petition. There are a lot of young people in our
community that carry things a little too far. Lets have some
class people. Anyway, hello to all Arabs everywhere in America
and around the world !!!
J S
Israeli-Occupied, USA - Wednesday, February 14, 2001 at 12:22:01
(PST)
I have a question for everyone and THIS IS NOT MEANT TO
OFFEND OR SPARK A DEBATE... This is only for my personal
curiosity. Who has children with traditional Arabic names, and
who has children with non-Arabic names? For those of you who do
not have children at this time but plan to in the future, will
you give your child(ren) an Arabic name? For those who have (or
will have) children with non-Arabic names, what made (or will
make) you come to that decision? I know that naming a child is a
very personal decision, but I am curious at the thought process.
I have two boys and the oldest one is named after my
father-in-law, and the youngest has an "American" name.
I never got to meet my father-in-law, and this was important to
my husband. I heard a lot of flack about my oldest son's name
before he was born. BUT, that was from ADULTS. My son went to the
same daycare for 5 1/2 years so everyone was used to his name.
When he started kindergarten this school year, it was the same
thing... only the ADULTS gave his name a second thought. My
oldest helped us name the younger son, so, even though it is not
an Arabic name, we feel like his name is special because it came
from his older brother with love. Again, my questions are for my
own personal curiosity and I mean no offense at all!!
TLF <farhat_93@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, February 14, 2001 at 06:28:17 (PST)
To annonnomus(petion) or whatever you name is, I no longer
attend these conventions, the last one I attended was the one in
Houston, since it was in my hometown and wanted to see the older
generations and family.
SB
Houston, TX USA - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 at 20:23:58 (PST)
Some of the comments that have been posted in the guest
book have been absolutely ridiculous. Congratulations to those of
you who chose to marry outside of your culture; it takes a lot to
make a marriage work. However, it is completely unnecessary to
demoralize those that choose to keep their heritage alive by
marrying someone who comes from similar ethnic struggles. This is
just another example of how Arabs are being pitted against one
another. Let's end this now. Everyone is entitled to marry, dress
and act as they please. Let's all stop trying to act as judge,
jury and executioner. Instead let4s focus our energy on trying to
develop ways to bring the community together and keep our culture
alive! P.S. to SB of Houston4 If you are so disgusted by the
conventions, I hope to never have to see you there! It4s
unfortunate that you have such an enormous chip on your shoulder
and choose to take it out on everyone else. I hope you are able
to resolve all of your issues in a civilized manner. Take care
everyone and please do not let the comments of a few individuals
cloud your entire judgment of the Ramallah community 4 regardless
of whether or not you are Arab.
Petition
Nationwide, USA - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 at 17:15:45 (PST)
Hate to say it, but I have to agree with SB--these past
conventions I've been to--you would never guess they were for
cultural reasons--it's all about dressing the flashiest and
participating in a meat market. The guys don't mind cause they
have girls who are willing to expose their assets if ya know what
I mean. The girls are screwing themselves over by dressing like
that because it makes them look like bimbos. The guys aren't any
better--they wanna see how many phone numbers (and more) they can
score so they can go home and brag to their cousins about their
conquests. It's all very silly. I am not generalizing, of course,
not everyone is like that--but there are enough at these
conventions are like that. We are wasting these conventions. We
need to move forward, have goals, build new traditions, keep old
traditions alive, make contacts, help each other out--learn how
to make a name for ourselves in this country. We are an invisible
race, we are focused in the wrong place. With the war going on
back home...why is it that no one is suggesting how we help our
people back home in this convention? Do we help them by wearing
skin tight clothes and partying in a nightlcub???? whassup with
that?! peace out desert diva
Desert Diva
USA - Friday, February 09, 2001 at 17:20:32 (PST)
I think you are all being rude to Jan, show some respect
and courtesy to all.
SB
Houston, TX USA - Friday, February 09, 2001 at 12:14:37 (PST)
Hey... I'm not on here to comment to anyone's inputs and
opinions, even though they are amusing! There's always a conflict
going on, lol. Anyway - anyone going to the mid-year meeting this
year? Anyone have any "positive" idea's to share about
the Ramallah Youth.? We need to re-build the youth community in a
few towns including mine. =) If there is anyone out there willing
to share their's with me, i'de like to chat.. byee
Jehann <PrincessJehann@aol.com>
Tx - Friday, February 09, 2001 at 12:09:42 (PST)
Hey fellow Palestians. I came to the States in 1980. Anyone
graduated from the Friends Boys School in Ramallah? Man I had a
blast when I lived there. Even thought we went on strike 3 days
out of the school week. Just wanted to say "Hey...
Marhaba" and Peace love and Joy :*)
Hany
Ghurani <Hanyman@gte.net>
Seattle, wa USA - Friday, February 09, 2001 at 08:44:41 (PST)
March Mid Yr is comin up in just a few weeks, hope to see
everyone up here in Michigan!! To my favorite girls that are
comin in from outta town, Lora, Sophia, Miranda, Teresa &
Connie. Me and Jen, Shorty Budta Blue are gonna show you guys a
good time. See ya soon :-)
1/5 of RamALLah's FINEst
USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 21:49:52 (PST)
Hey guys,leave Jan alone, shes doing no harm, just stating
what she believes! Be nice !!
BJ
USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 11:04:19 (PST)
Ok, for Mr. or Ms. No Name Provided, could you please have
a little more respect for the Non Ramallah people. Just because
they are not Ramallah does not mean they are not welcome. If you
do not appreciate their comments then maybe you need to not read
the guestbook. Immaturity is not an admirable quality.
Jennifer Farhat
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 20:14:11 (PST)
I AM A AFRICAN AMERICAN HEBREW WANTING TO ATTEND THE
RAMALLAH CONVENTION. PLEASE EMAIL ME ALL INFORMATION CONCERNING
ROOM RATES AND REGISTRATION. I AM LOOKING TO INDULGE AND
UNDERSTAND THE ARABIC CULTURE. I WANNA SHARE SOME THINGS WITH
ARABS ALSO. BYE BYE SEE YOU SOON. GERMAINE STEINBERG
GERMAINE STEINBERG <STEINBERG@AOL.COM>
BRIDGEPORT, CT USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 15:10:45
(PST)
Jan, please stay out of this guestbook. You're not even
middle eastern!!! And stop trying to be!
No Name Provided
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 07:52:13 (PST)
The comments are all the same. Girls dressing
provacatively, youth rebelling, sneaking around...etc... I would
also like to get an opinion from a male. What do you think about
women behaving in such a manner... OF course the first response
is going to be that of..."...a woman like that is not
good..." However, you sure do look at them and date and so
on and so forth. A male can get away with dating outside of their
race and behaving rather "mysteriously"; however, when
it comes to the subject of that woman being a sister. Things
definitely change. The whole point is that the world that our
parents grew up in has evolved. We can no longer say that the
rules that once governed our community continues to follow
through. It is true that youth is rebelling; however, hasn't it
always been??? I don't believe in hypocracy; if you are going to
live your life a certain way---then so be it. However, I see alot
of parents saying, "...my son/daughter would never engage in
something of that sort.."(any type of questionable
activites)... Then they talk about someone else's child when
their child is doing the same exact thing. I think communication
is essential in this discussion. SB, I totally agree with you.
Some of the things that are seen are abhorrable; Conventions are
good for various things if that is what you want. Everyone is
beating on them; the bottom line is that the main focus has been
lost. When the youth matures, I think we will see the convention
take a turn. I think that we all need to get along and not forget
our traditions; our people. Everyone is going to lead a different
life, but one can never change what is in the blood.
Miriam
TX USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 20:41:55 (PST)
I noticed there is a Ramallah Club near my friends in
Virginia. What types of things do you do at this club is it open
to significant others? My boyfriend wants to attend but he also
wants me to go with him? Can someone please respond when you have
the time?How much does it cost to join and should we bring
anything with us ie food? (sorry so many entries tonight)
Jan Norman
germantown, Md USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 19:34:10 (PST)
If I do not agree with a man, you think I am a feminist?
Strange. I am for people.So, I guess you can label me humanist.
Ok, labels aside. I use my full name. I don't have some slang URL
or anonymous signature. I suppose if I wasn't
"welcome"here that the webmaster(s)who control the site
would tell me to write elsewhere. This current site is on the
internet and opened to all,apparently.I thought one purpose of
the site was to educate the world on Ramallah and Palestine. No,
I don't get the impression this site is only for people who all
think alike. You may not like who I am or what I have to say.But,
I am not here on the site for your convenience. I am here to
educate myself--especially since my current boyfriend is ARAB and
lo, and behold, prepare yourself great-grandfather is from the
very city that this site is about. I am amazed that some of you
are so caught up in bickering and trying to be right instead of
dialog on the condition of Palestine. I do visit many other
places besides this site. I believe if I were truly distasteful
or offensive the webmaster(s) would email me. If all of you so
dislike hearing others opinions or thoughts maybe you could just
be exclusively for people who are from your city AND THINK just
like you. Uh yea, I can be long-winded.It is a fault of mine.But,
at least I don't steal,drink,abuse etc. considering flaws mine
are pretty simple and I appreciate the feedback and am willing to
work to "serve you better" *clearing throat* Until
then, take care and God Bless. PS I WORK so I cannot view OPRAH.
However, I don't consider it a put down to watch OPRAH she, like
Madonna, found a niche and made a fortune doing it!!!
Jan Norman
Germantown, Md USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 19:17:51 (PST)
No. My responses don't have to be long.
Jan Norman
Germantown, Md USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 19:02:40 (PST)
Jan, are those huge guestbook entries really necessary?
Come on, now.
No Name Provided
FL USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 16:49:19 (PST)
Yup, people from ramallah living in america , you sure know
how to make yourseleves look good. if the people back home read
all this they would feel pretty ashamed.
JJ
TX USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 16:25:28 (PST)
Wow... lately, everyone has shown that, although most
everyone writing in the guestbook is of the same culture, that
everyone has very different opinion. Imagine that...
INDIVIDUALITY!! This ? is for everyone who is getting heated
about all these subjects... do you and your best friend totally
agree all the time? Could you be friends with the person that has
the completely opposite view as you? If the answer is no, why
not? How do you know that some of the "no name
provided" isn't your dearest friend? Regarding the
conventions... what you get out of it is a choice. I have never
gone to one, but I hope to soon. If I saw something going on that
I did not like, then I have two choices... chose not to take part
and find something that "fits" me, or chose not to
attend another one. Everyone has the right to feel the way they
do. No one can ever say you are "wrong" for the way you
feel. But, it's all in the way we chose to react to an unpleasant
situation or feeling. Regarding the differences in opinions... My
husband does not like a lot of things that go on within the
Arabic cirle here at home, but that does not make him any less
proud of being Palestinian. He is very happy to be living in the
United States, and likes some of the more
"Americanized" traditions that the culture has adopted,
but again, that doesn't make him any less Arabic. With him, I
have the best of both worlds! I guess my point is... respect
other people whether or not they agree with you. I am probably
way off base here, but this seems like bickering instead of
discussing opposing opinions. Calm down. Smile :) and relax.
Value the differences. Today's generation will be the ones
running things when my kids are my age. How boring would the
world be if everyone agreed on everything! Jan... you are a smart
woman for not letting one bad experience taint your views for the
rest of your life!
TLF <farhat_93@hotmail.com>
USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 08:03:10 (PST)
Message to the American feminist Jan Norman......I thought
you got the message a while ago. Your comments are not really
welcomed here, why don't you go to the Oprah Winfrey website? I
am sure you will enjoy the male bashing over there. The only
purpose of your comments is to brainwash the female readers of
this repectable website. We need don't need this website to be
tarnished by Americanism, there is enough of that already going
around in the world.....
concerned Palestinian
Israeli Occupied, USA - Monday, February 05, 2001 at 20:06:05
(PST)
JF and SB, I completly agree with you. I belive that the
people who are getting offended by these comments are the ones
commeting these acts. I am a youth, and have witnessed this,
because cousins have involved themselves with these acts.
No NAME
USA - Monday, February 05, 2001 at 19:48:58 (PST)
Okay, I know that all of you are a little angry with my
comments. I should have thought a little more before I wrote my
comments, but it was one of those things I just had to get off my
chest. My profession involves using a lot of facts, I am not
allowed to process any documents unless everything on them is
factual. As when I write in this, I do not say things that I've
heard, I say things that I have witnessed. The way my parents
brought me up, they said "Arabs are the best," and
thats why we should marry in our culture. We are no different
then any other culture. We have the good, the bad and the evil.
We are like every other culture, we have our problems,
alcoholism, drugs, pre-martial sex, and so forth. My parent's
were both born in America, so I got the best of both worlds.
Sometimes I think that our morals are worse then the so called
"Americans" (I am stating an opinion, so you all do not
need to get all upset). Our problem is that we need to be more
open-minded to help better ourselves. I grew up in a very liberal
Arabic household, and was allowed to do as I pleased, though I
always maintained the morals my parents brought me up with
(respect your self, no pre-martial sex.....and so forth). I
believe that made me into a better person. Being close to the
Arabs in my community, I saw that the kids growing up without the
same liberal attitude my parents brought me up were rebelling.
Sneaking out, doing drugs, engaging in sex and so forth. I
believe that's where our conventions have led us to, and why the
youth is acting in a disrespectful manner. I hope I can get a
man's input on this, but slutty girls are nice to look at, and
screw around, but not to marry. I have heard this over and over
again, and it just disgusts me with the way these young girls are
dressed. REMEMBER THIS IS AN OPINION. I just want people to think
of us a community with strong morals and values (The way it used
to be).
SB
Houston, TX USA - Monday, February 05, 2001 at 19:46:49 (PST)
I agree with you JF. I'm also astonished by what I'm
reading on our site.
MJ
USA - Monday, February 05, 2001 at 17:14:33 (PST)
Greetings to all. I haven't been online in such a long time
and I haven't toured this website in a while to see what's been
going on in our Ramallah community. But I hope all are doing
well. Since I haven't read what the latest comments are I know I
flipped through some of the comments and some of them were
concerning the convention. If I am out of line then I'm sorry,
but I just wanted to say that the conventions go back and I don't
think it's right that the youth today make it just party time or
a time to get away from their parents. The conventions run deep
in our roots and have great meaning to all those elders and who
orginated the Ramallah Federation. As a youth myself I would like
to see the goal of the elders continue for many years to come.
The conventions are not about partying, going out, meeting
men/women, those are some of the many great qualities about the
convention but that was not the intention of the elders who
started our Ramallah reunions 43 years ago. I can say from what I
know it has been a successful 43 years.So to all those youth who
do plan on going to the convention lets try harder on getting
involved in what the convention is really about and not just be
there to socialize with family and friends. Lets build out
Ramallah community so that we as a family can over come the
obsticals that our Palestinian families are facing.Hope to see u
all at the MIchigan Mid Year this in March. If not hope to see u
at the convention. Love to all Jennifer
Jennifer <PLObudta@aol.com>
Detroit (City of the debekas), MI USA - Monday, February 05, 2001
at 08:57:21 (PST)
Yes, I am a proud American. Should I be ashamed for saying
I am American? Of course, American, is said under the guise of
fighting for land. I am a person on God's Earth. As far as I
know, no one got out a ruler and sat down to draw the outline of
all the countries. The countries mainly came into being by way of
war. Now,as far as the boys responding to me about how women
should not rule the world. Lets take another look at why this
could be a good idea. God chose a woman for the immaculate
conception. Women give birth. WE go through Labor. Labor,
men,violent bloody labor to get all males and females here. I
believe most women have a dear respect for life. I am sure our
countries have martyrs and men die in war. I might add they are
usually the men most impoverished and usually the ones that are
young. Instead of the older ones making all the decisions or the
richer ones buying their way out of war. Women may have feelings
and emotions(how human,of them!)but if they can go through
physical labor I am sure they can deal with any other life fact
that comes along. Women-Ireland led, India led, UK-led. We can
argue Hilary led in the US.Ha,ha. Someone asked me what I wanted
for Christmas or the new year and that is what I said. Sorry I
didn't come up with some daft thought like "I wanna really
cute guy". Incidentally, to the one who thinks I am
married.I am not. But, have lost friends in war. To the other who
thinks people make fun of me. Do you think I care?Are you so sure
I don't email people from Ramallah,Palestine, Haifa, Israel, or
some redneck who thinks he's in Israeli occupied usa? To the one
who thinks wars are only occuring in three countries. Who died
and left you the world-wide reporter?We don't just have famine in
countries because they don't have food. We have famine in many
war-torn countries. Pay attention.
Jan Norman
Germantown, Md USA - Sunday, February 04, 2001 at 17:25:03 (PST)
Layla, Thank-you for paying attention to my words. Take
Care and God Bless.
Jan Norman
USA - Sunday, February 04, 2001 at 17:05:37 (PST)
SB-THANK-YOU!!!! You speak at least ONE truth.I am an
American Woman. I had an eight year friendship with my
ex-fiance.Of course, we are madly love for the duration of our
former engagement. His family swore on Arab Christian Orthodox as
religion.I could NOT believe what I witnessed before my eyes.
EVERYTHING you have written in your email is true. I could not
understand how the family swore on Christianity and had such an
investment in such immorals. Most of all, my friend for so many
years was nothing like these morals the more I became
indoctrinated in the family. I could not believe that such
disgusting behavior was excused. You are RIGHT the women do
overlook this in the community. It is very sad. My ex-fiance and
I had numerous discussions about this.But, he told me that every
time he tried to straighten up his act his FATHER would bully him
to act more like a man.I saw this many times.I felt more
christian than the family which was impossible since I had a
different religion. I do BELIEVE that their behavior was their
choice and was not because they were ARAB. However, if you are
trying to set examples for your culture to the world it is best
to do certain things behind close doors. I will always love my
ex-fiance. I even pray for his family till this day.But, in clear
conscience I would and could never raise our children in such an
environment and so we stopped the relationship. It was a
very,very difficult thing to do. He jokes about it to our mutual
friends but I know in his private moments that it occurs to him
what happened. I didn't just lose my fiance whom I loved dearly
but also a very good friend. (Sidenote--one of the few friends
who loved rock concerts as much as I--tee.hee). I was at risk for
forming a huge prejudice against Palestinian and Arab people just
because of this one family.Ignorance and Prejudice is so easy. It
is such an effortless form of thought. But, finally I sat down
and wrote what I was missing about my friend and I decided that I
would take back for myself. I now cook the food his mum use to
cook(although probably not as good),I have friends that are
actively involved in Palestinian and Israeli peace efforts and
working with the children from those lands, I try to learn Arab
once in awhile. And to overcome my prejudice towards his church I
went to a meeting there once just to remind myself that his
family were who they were based on their own choices. They are
not the best, nor the healthiest representation of Palestinian
culture. In fact, looking back, the only sign I saw of the
respect for the Ramallah culture was an old cookbook the father
graciously allowed me to borrow once so I could cook delicious
meals for his son. ;-) I still kick myself for not paying
attention to how his mum tried to teach me to cook. Ok I am in
memory lane. But, I am glad you had the courage to write what you
did in your email especially including the older generation.I now
know it wasn't just my observation. WE can only pray. Ultimately
people make their own choices.Pity that others think it is their
culture.NO, it is just the foolishness of selfish individuals.
Thanks SB for your email. Happy life to you, dear.
Jan Norman
Germantown, MD USA - Sunday, February 04, 2001 at 16:57:26 (PST)
Let's reminisce on the qualities of the convention that
make us proud to be from Ramallah. The late night haflas in the
hotel lobby, seeing relatives from other cities and just talking
with people with a common heritage. The debke troup put on a
great show that made me so proud to be arab. The fighting
overseas is terrible. We need to protect our heritage as much as
we can in the U.S.
No Name Provided
Knoxville, TN USA - Sunday, February 04, 2001 at 14:53:46 (PST)
for the love of GOD, can't everyone just get along???
people, please. it is not anyone's right to judge someone else's
actions. everyone has the right to do what they chose because we
as individuals must live with our own consequences. the last time
i checked, the ramallah convention was not a boot camp, so
everyone needs to relax. if someone wants to have sex at the
conventions, that's their choice. if someone wants to sit and
listen to the educational meetings all day, that's their choice.
since when is everyone else's business on debate? are you going
to get a better night's sleep knowing who had sex with who? if
everybody worried about themselves as much as they worried about
everyone else, this world would be full of perfect human beings.
mind your own business and try to better yourselves, not everyone
else.
No Name Provided
chicago, USA - Sunday, February 04, 2001 at 10:14:05 (PST)
What about Palestinian American racism against the African
American community? Is anyone aware of the African presence in
Palestine? Just curious.
No Name Provided
USA - Sunday, February 04, 2001 at 09:36:19 (PST)
It is disgusting but it is true about how some at the
convention are getting a little out of hand. The last I knew,
these conventions were for reuniting with family and to make new
friends. Unfortunately, there are some who are committing acts of
debauchery. You know who you are and you should be ashamed. I am
a youth and I am disappointed to even know of this preposterous
business. Of course noone is perfect..but does that mean you can
go hook up with your 10th cousin at a Ramallah Convention? Afraid
not. I do not think that the original brothers of the Haddadean
tribe would approve, nor would teta and sedo. There is a time and
a place for everything..let us not forget that.
JF
Oviedo, USA - Saturday, February 03, 2001 at 23:35:36 (PST)
Hey Everone... Can you please sign this petition below to
stop our tax dollars from going to Israel? We need a million
signatures for this to be recognized by our government. Thanks so
much in advance. http://petitiononline.com/31113/petition.html
And, speaking of convention--how many of you would be interested
in a career work-shop,to help you break into the working world,
be it law, telelvision, or whatever else you're interested in. I
am also thinking of having a workshop of how to deal with racism
and discrimination at work as a Palestinan... Your comments?
Thanks, Desert Diva
Desert_Diva
San Francisco, CA USA - Friday, February 02, 2001 at 11:10:31
(PST)
About all this nonsense you young guys arewriting.Arab
girls are no better or worse than others.Look at the parents and
the children will be likewise.Thank God the new generation is
more educated and can fit inthe American society and contribute
to it. Look at the Lebanese. Many have high positions in
government.Maybe the new Palestinian generation will accomplish
that /We will not be respected just because we say our culture is
superior.Nonsense we are good and bad just like any immigrant
group The sooner we stop seeing ourselves as immigrants the
better.Read the Hathihe Ramallah and see that more and more of
our youth are marrying non Arabs,,Why not? I am proud to be a
Palestinian .And my two American daughter's -in-law are proud
ttto be married to good men who's roots are Palestinin
ssal s. khoury <salskhoury@aol.com>
Detroit , Mi USA - Thursday, February 01, 2001 at 20:02:41 (PST)
SB, I really think you comments were uncalled for. Just
because your married to an AMERICAN guy and your happy doesn't
mean that we can't be happy with an arab. Everyone has their own
preference. You say that your disgusted by the conventions...then
don't go. The convention is only 4 days out of the year. It's a
great way to meet new people, see your old friends and have a
good time. I bet if we held it twice a year we would have a great
turnout. I admit it's not what they use to be but hey we still
have fun anyway. You shouldn't put other people's beliefs down
just because you didn't marry an arab.
No Name Provided
USA - Thursday, February 01, 2001 at 10:53:24 (PST)
I'm also from Texas and I'm not quite sure who you are, and
im' glad. You are generalizing all arabs that go to
Conventions..not a smart thing to do. You yourself said you would
go with your parents to the conventions, and if sex is all you
saw going on, then you obviously chose to hang around with a wild
crowd. I've gone to the past few conventions and yea it goes on
so do a lot of other things. Arabs arent perfect, but most of us
go to have a good time..and NO I dont mean sex. I've made some
real good friends through conventions, otherwise I would never
have met. I'm glad I had the opportunity to meet them...So before
you speak, dont generalize about your own people and try and
degrade us on the internet so the whole world could see...come on
now you claim to be intelligent..PROVE IT!!
No Name Provided
TX USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 21:50:15 (PST)
Hello, I would just like to say, what SB said about what
goes on at the conventions is actually true. I thought that
conventions are to reunite with each other and get back to our
culture and traditions and stuff, instead of having that, i see
that we have american parties going at the convention and
teenagers dressing like they are desperate. Thats not part of our
culture? or is it?? Everyone who goes to these conventions knows
what goes on there. But i guess noone has the guts to fix the
problem!
No Name Provided
Tx USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 16:58:12 (PST)
OUT OF HAND! Completely OUT of HAND! You children, youths,
young adults, old adults...Where are your manners? Your COMMON
SENCE? Your dignity? You speak ridiculously it makes my stomach
turn! Not only is the stomach turning but your ancesters before
you are TURNING in their graves!
No Name Provided
JAX, FL USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 07:35:15 (PST)
To SB from Houston... Looks like you had alot to say, and
you have alot of nerve stereotyping the Ramallah community for
saying that they just go to conventions for SEX. I have to admit
that there are some nawareeya's out there, but God did not, I
repeat, did NOT make us perfect. We are human. People do what
they wanna do, and if they go to the conventions for sex, or if
they dress just to get attention, then don't worry about it, it's
not harming you. I believe it's true that morality isn't set on
culture, but sweetheart do not write in this guestbook
stereotyping us. Because I do not dress for attention, nor do I
attend conventions for sex, because I have good morals. If people
choose to be like that, it shouldn't bother you.. Because in the
long run, the only person judging us is God. I believe that
people are like that only cause of their strict-ass parents who
think that Arabs have the best morals and qualifications for a
husband/wife... but it's just how they were all brought up. 99.9%
of all our parents and grandparents have arranged marriages, and
they are still trying to keep it in our generation... when
infact, they should stop it! Being strict just makes the youth
seek revenge and sneek around, but if the older generation was a
little more open minded, alot of us would not have to act the way
we do.
No Name Provided
USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 18:01:26 (PST)
Message to SB of Houston......your comments regarding why
the young adults go to the annual convention are not only
childish, and highly inaccurate, but they should not have even
been said in the first place. Not all Arabs are like you, trust
me. Have some class buddy....
J S
Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 14:09:37 (PST)
In reference to the whole marriage bit, I think that each
has its point. I think that in this day and age it has gotten
extremely hard to find a genuine person to share one's life with.
Because of this, we have things such as conventions to help guide
people and join people from close family trees. However, we fail
to recognize that our world's are changing. This is no longer
fail proof. Yes, there are many cases of cheating and so on and
so forth. This produces nothing positive. Why does this happen?
Maybe because people discover that what was engrained in their
beings is not what they want? I think that the question of race
is no longer an issue. If you can find someone within one's own
race that is genuine and true, that is great. The problem is that
it is rare. Everyone is looking at what the other person is
wearing, looks, money, all the commercialization of marriage. We
have totally lost the notion of what marriage is about. Most
girls want to get married to simply get out of the house. Their
liberty. This is not what it is about nor what parents want it to
be seen as. Parents want to see their children happy, loved, and
well taken care of. In today's world, we as young adults need to
listen to our parent's word of guidance, pray for God's good
graces, and look beyond a person's superficialites and find what
we truly need to be happy. Happiness can come in any shape, size,
color, and/or race. Nothing comes easy to anybody; what is meant
for you is yours...period. The conclusion is basic: everyone has
the right to look for what they want. One has to be very careful
for what one wishes. You can get what you wished for, but it may
not necessarily be what you always wanted. Open your eyes,
hearts, and minds. Hope everyone has a great weekend.
Miriam
TX USA - Monday, January 29, 2001 at 20:23:42 (PST)
Hello... Well, I don't want to put my self and intrude...I
was just seeing the webiste and all....saw the guestbook. I think
everyone should make his/her own judgments. I mean...everyone has
a point of view. Hear is something to talk about...if you guys
want....I heard that things are getting pretty bad in
Ramallah,,,the latest i heard is that the US Marines trained some
groups in the Israeli army how to invade the Palestinian control
areas......this is bad...but to tell yall the truth i have no
idea what is going to happen.....All i wish for a fair
peace......see yall
Yousef
Rabah <rabahyo@earlham.edu>
Richmond, IN USA - Saturday, January 27, 2001 at 16:19:53 (PST)
Hi...I just wanted to add to this GuestBook, this site is
really awsome. I look at the pictures of the old homes in
Ramallah and it just reminds me of all the things I miss most. I
missed out on the "marrying an arab" issue. So, just
wanted this is great. =o)
SuSu
<ARABDlVA@aol.com>
Riverside, CA USA - Friday, January 26, 2001 at 21:40:44 (PST)
Lets just say that I am very easy going person, but when I
read this page I get enraged! I don't think that any of you have
any right to speak about American-Arab Relationship unless you
are in one. I think a lot you people are closed minded, which I
will admit I was too at one time. TLF I think that it is great
that you are on a regular on this website and keep the culture in
your children, when you don't have to. That is a choice made by
you. I admit I would go to the conventions each year with my
parents hoping I would meet a fine Arab boy to marry me. BUT you
know what, THESE CONVENTIONS ARE DISGUSTING. I admit that many
people have a blind eye, but look at what's going around you. To
marry Arab is to marry someone with strong morals....WRONG!!! A
persons morals are not defined by ones cultures. THESE young
adults and teenagers are going to these conventions....for
basically SEX!!! I think I've said what all of you are to afraid
to admit. Its disgusting the way these girls dresses in attention
of a guy so they can get some action. IM not saying that its just
the girls fault. So it enrages me when you say that we should
stay within our culture. I think I realized that we are no
different from everyone else when my parents told me about all
the people cheating in our community, and the wives putting up
with this. I am talking about the old generations too! IM
surrounded by divorce on a daily basis.......mostly people who
met and had a convention hookup. And to those close-minded people
who think that I married an American because I couldn't find
better or because I am a dog....WRONG!! I am an intelligent and
beautiful woman with a lot to offer and IM not afraid to admit
that......i followed my heart.
SB
Houston, TX USA - Friday, January 26, 2001 at 07:30:47 (PST)
Confidentiality and choosing to be anonymous is BEST. A man
and especially a lady who has made no comment has, in essense,
said plenty. Choosing to STAY OUT of conflictual discussion is
probably a good tip for the majority of the writers on here.
Don't try to associate yourself with every comment made on a
guestbook. It is designed for the opinions of others to be
expressed freely. Whether they choose confidentiality or to state
their name is the choice of the writer.
Miranda Bateh <TooCutie427@aol.com>
Jacksonville, Florida USA - Wednesday, January 24, 2001 at
06:47:24 (PST)
To M. Iwais... To answer your question about remaining
anonymous (for me), I have been judged in the past because of my
name from Arabs and Americans alike in the past because of some
trouble in the family years ago. I chose to stick by and support
my immediate family (actually, my husband's) and not the extended
family. Therefore, I choose to remain anonymous. My e-mail
address is in all of my entries, so, if anyone wants to know who
I am, well... To SB and JG... THANK YOU!!! Obviously all of us
Americans aren't that bad. SB, you did what I did... follow your
heart. Please e-mail me as I think we have a lot in common. For
everyone else, why is everone getting so offended? I live by the
phrase "agree to disagree." Just because you don't
agree with someone else doesn't mean they are wrong. I know of
several Arab-Arab marriage that have failed. I know of several
Arab-American marriages that have failed. And, I know of both
types of marriage that have succeeded. Mine is one. I have been
married for 8 years next month, and have been together with him
for 12 years!! For the person writing from the Occupied
territory, yes, it is easy to become "Americanized"
living in America... but... please e-mail me and tell me what
your idea of being "Americanized" is - and this is not
meant to be sarcastic). :)
TLF <farhat_93@hotmail.com>
USA - Tuesday, January 23, 2001 at 06:26:43 (PST)
I just wanted to agree with Mohaned about the "no name
provided" trend going on.. lol... I completely agree!! If
everyone is so strong & secure about what they have to say...
why not state where the opinion is coming from? too much
shadiness goin on... lol jk anyways, HAPPY belated NEW YEAR
EVERYONE!! allah ma'ack :)
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Monday, January 22, 2001 at 20:56:26 (PST)
basheer i dont care what you think "aight then"
issa
cleveland, USA - Sunday, January 21, 2001 at 21:21:07 (PST)
Question? Is everybody in here afraid of letting us know
who you are? Is there a problem with giving us your name? You
dont seem afraid to speak your mind, so if you're not afraid,
then dont be afraid to include your name in your entry. BE REAL!!
BE STRONG!! BE FREE!! but most of all, BE A SOLDIER!!
Mohanad Iwais <MFIWAIS@AOL.COM>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Sunday, January 21, 2001 at 21:13:23 (PST)
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL ARABS AROUND THE
WORLD. HOPEFULLY PEACE WILL COME TO OUR HOMELAND BEFORE ITS TOO
LATE, IF ITS NOT TOO LATE ALREADY. GOD BLESS.
JEFF <KASHMAN5@AOL.COM>
CHICAGO, IL USA - Saturday, January 20, 2001 at 21:49:26 (PST)
What is this nonsense talk about marriage and american?
Have you guys lost your culture and traditions? You all know what
is the respectable thing to do when dealing with this issue? We
are arabs, palestinians, keep your culture live , your morals and
values strong!, you wont survive with out it .
No Name Provided
USA - Saturday, January 20, 2001 at 11:10:14 (PST)
To the no name from Israel, I'm not going to take any
offense to your comments because my parent's have raised me to
treat others with the upmost respect that they DESERVE. Next time
you have a comment that puts down the arab girls why don't pick
point to them instead of generalizing because your not giving
credit to those who deserve it. To SB, I agree with your comments
about limiting ourselves to only arabs but you know sometimes
it's better in the long run to stick with an arab. As long as
your happy that's the main thing.
Diane
NY USA - Saturday, January 20, 2001 at 10:33:24 (PST)
I would like to comment on the issue of marrying an
"American." I am from a well-respected family and was
taught the language and our heritage as I am a
Palestian-Amercian. My parents raised me with very good morals
and values, and taught me that Palestinians marry one another. I
believed in this and always wanted to marry another Arab. I
thought it would be easier to marry another Arab because of the
culture differences between an American and I. I now realize this
was an ignorant belief on my behalf. COME ON PEOPLE! THERE are
6.3 billion people in world, we are limiting ourselves by saying
that we will only marry an Arab. There are so many wonderful
people out there that we need to give a chance. Take a look
around yourselves and your community, how many true-Palestian
marriages do you know of that are happy and free of infidelity? I
am now married to an American with great values and morals that I
was brought up with, and my family adores him. He is a wonderful
father to my kids, as well as a provider. I couldn't ask for
more.
S.B.
Houston, TX USA - Thursday, January 18, 2001 at 07:41:33 (PST)
ATTENTION TLF.........The mere fact that you visit the
Ramallah site so often is an indication of your respect and
appreciation for your husband's heritage and roots. I believe
that you are preserving the culture and passing it along to your
children. You are an excellent example of an American whom wants
to keep the culture-torch lit even if it was not your
birth-right. You are proof that an American/Arab marriage are not
a threat to cultural preservation. I respect that and wish you
and your family the best!
JG
Jacksonville, FL USA - Wednesday, January 17, 2001 at 20:26:07
(PST)
I just have one thing to say here. The so-called Arab girls
who live in America really need to stop acting so foolish and
Americanized because they will end up with nothing in life. I am
sick and tired of seeing the so-called Arab girls here with soo
much attitude and disrespect towards their fellow Arab guys. This
is very bad and parents need to do more to inject respect,
ettiquette, and good manners into their daughters. They are
becoming big time feminists and they disrespect the Arab men too
much! It is going waaay too far these days and it needs to stop
immediately....
No Name Provided
Israeli occupied, USA - Wednesday, January 17, 2001 at 18:20:51
(PST)
hello everyone!!!! i hope that the new year is bringing
everyone the happiness that they hope for. my comment is for
tlf.. it is very good of you to adapt to your husbands traditions
and culture. that shows that you have an open mind to all things
that are going to make you and you family the happiest that they
can be. it will all benefit you in the long run by chosing the
ways of the palestinian heritage. dont get me wrong though , all
cultures are great in their own ways but being a arab gives me so
honor and happiness. so take care and god bless.
Abeer Farhat <abourrah@aol.com>
jacksonville, fl USA - Tuesday, January 16, 2001 at 15:39:51
(PST)
The subject of culture and marriage is a bit amusing in my
eyes. Some of you may feel like I am "corrupting" the
culture by being married to a Palestinian while being an American
myself. When I met my husband, he was concerned what his family
would say about him dating an American girl. I knew that they
would have rathered him date/marry an Arabic girl. And I
respected that and refused to get in between him and his family.
I wouldn't let myself get too serious about him. Once I met the
family, they realized what kind of person I am and welcomed me
with open arms. My husband is fluent in Arabic, and is teaching
me - though not as fast as I'd like to learn. We had an Arabic
wedding with singer and all - aside from the music, there was
nothing "American" about the wedding - all of which
were MY choice. My oldest son is named after my father-in-law,
whom I never got the pleasure to meet (he passed away before I
got to meet the family). I love my husband with all my heart as
he does me. I feel very strongly about teaching my kids their
Arabic heritage - they are bombarded by the American culture on a
daily basis. One day, I hope to take them to the old country to
see their "roots." My mother-in-law stepped in where I
needed a mother as mine passed away when I was 18. I am the
luckiest daughter-in-law in the world. She loves me for me and
not because of my culture. You have bad seeds everywhere,
regardless of culture. Everyone is entitled to what they want
whether or not you agree. My mother always thought that my sister
would marry the foreign guy as she dated Italian, Spanish, Irish,
etc, and that I'd marry the "true" American guy...
well, she married a redneck and I married my true love - not
because of what his bloodline was, but because I loved him. For
those who believe in marrying someone regardless of their culture
- go for it! For those who want to stay within their own culture
to preserve it - go for it!! But, just because someone does not
marry within their own culture doesn't mean that their heritage
will be destroyed. It is up to the non-Arabic mate to help keep
it alive!! And as far as inter-racial is concerned... not once
has it ever been an issue (honestly). My favorite entry among
this debate is the person who said "I think all people are
pretty." And I think this person was speaking about what is
inside and not facial beauty.
TLF <farhat_93@hotmail.com>
USA - Monday, January 15, 2001 at 07:34:21 (PST)
HEY THERE H-TOWN! As an American-born Palestinian, whom
speaks the language fluently, lives the culture daily and deeply
values my heritage.......I would marry another American-born
Palestinian, before I would marry a nice American gentlemen named
Tom Smith. I have NO ISSUES with those whom marry non-Arabs or
non-Christians, because to each their own!! However, if it came
down to an American, OR a Palestinian...... I would marry the
Palestinian!!!!!!! Personally, my nationality and identity as a
Palestinian-Arab is much more deeply rooted than my religious
convictions. The food I eat, the language I speak, the music that
makes me move, the folklore that touches my heart, the customs
which I honor, the family values I practice, the morals which
govern me, and my passion for the intifada..........ARE ALL
INTRICATELY A PART OF MY IDENTITY AS AN AMERICAN-BORN
PALESTINIAN, not as a European-orthodox Christian. That is MY
position. I am Christian and intend on marrying an
Christian...but the most pronounced elements of my character are
because I am a PALESTINIAN. So..... - - MARRY TOM SMITH, ---MARRY
A CHRISTIAN PALESTINIAN, ---MARRY A PALESTINIAN MUSLIM-----JUST
MAKE SURE THAT THE PERSON YOU CHOSE IS BEST SUITED FOR YOU.
J.G.
Jacksonville, FL USA - Monday, January 15, 2001 at 00:40:39 (PST)
To Issa, I dont think that all people are pretty.
Especially you. Aiight then!
Basheer Omar Zanayed <GeGolly@aol.com>
HOUSTON, TEXAS USA - Sunday, January 14, 2001 at 12:49:19 (PST)
I personally do feel that marrying an arab is "the way
to go". It makes for an often times easier relationship
because there is a mutual understanding of each others
upbringing, morals and values. It makes things easier when
raising children because again of the similar upbringing both
parents received. However, to be rich in culture is not defined
by who your significant other is, but defined by who you as an
individual are. Culture (to me) is not one arab marrying another
(although in some ways it can be enhanced). To me, culture lies
within me, it's in my heart and in my blood and not defined by
who I share romantic interests in. When acquainting ourselves
with people of other cultures, not only does this provide for an
opportunity to broaden peoples awareness of what it means to be
an arab, it also provides for an opportunity to learn about the
other person's culture, making us more well-rounded and richer.
Whether an acquaintance like this is a friend or a romantic
partner, your culture will not be stripped from you so long that
you have a strong sense of who you are. Culture lies within us.
It is not formed by who we acquaint ourselves with.
Lena Eadeh <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Sunday, January 14, 2001 at 11:07:06 (PST)
To "no name provided" in Houston, this is a topic
that DOES need to be discussed, so if you disagree, dont
participate. It is a common problem people and marriages all the
time. I do agree that even if you marry Arab or within your
culture, there is the possibility of mixing religions, but that
is another CONTROVERSIAL subject mnay people have issues with. If
you read my entry, you would understand my point was explaining
the importance of marrying within your culture. Regardless if I
speak the language fluently or not, is none of your business. I
respect my culture & know who I am, thank you
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Sunday, January 14, 2001 at 09:29:13 (PST)
ATTENTION J.S OF WASHINGTON DC.......... I respect many of
your positions on the issues raised in the guestbook & would
like to ask you a question. Please take a moment to email me at
Nini138@aol.com. Thanks
<nini138@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA USA - Sunday, January 14, 2001 at 01:14:06 (PST)
WELL I MUST AGREE WITH SOPHIA! I AM VERY PROUD TO BE A
PALESTINIAN, I HAVE DATED AMERICAN, ITALIAN, GREEK AND I STILL
WANT TO MARRIE MY OWN, IT IS A LOT EASIER, AND KEEPING OUR
CULTURE ALIVE, AND BESIDES PALESTINIAN WOMEN IN MY EYES ARE THE
MOST PRETTIEST WOMEN IN THE WORLD. I AM ALSO NOT SAYING THAT ARAB
PEOPLE ARE PERFECT WE ARE NOT, BUT NOBODY IS PERFECT, I WANT MY
OWN AND INSHALLAH ONE DAY I WILL MARRY A GOOD PALESTINIAN WOMAN
OR AN ARABIC WOMAN I WISH EVERYONE WELL AND PEOPLE RELAX THESE
ARE JUST OUR OWN OPINIONS TAKE CARE
BOULOS SHUNNARAH <BOULOS@WWISP.COM>
HOMEWOOD, AL USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 20:14:55 (PST)
i think that all people are pretty
issa <kash.11@osu.edu>
USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 15:53:14 (PST)
Marrying of the same culture does not ensure anything,
sweety! Inter racial marriages can take place even in between 2
arabs. LEts say you've got a Christian Palesitinian Arab
girl....and a Muslim Lebanese Arab man.. BAM there u go.... Deal
with that. Okay? Listen just because you want to "keep your
culture alive" doesn't mean you have to preach like the way
you are doing. I bet you can't even speak the language fluently!
So there's my take on this "controversial situation"
and NO it doesn't need to be discussed either. Discussion only
causes further controversy. For example, take the mideast peace
talks. They talk and talk and talk and talk for hours...ANd
look...PEACE? I dont think so! SO don't waste time talking...It
dont work! Shank ya!
No Name provided
H-town, Texas Texas Texas Texas Texas USA - Saturday, January 13,
2001 at 13:35:35 (PST)
Sophia, I think you misunderstood my point my dear. There
is absolutely nothing wrong with having an american friend, b/c
most of mine are. I totally agree with you about finding someone
who makes you happy, but I have to disagree with you about an
american making me happy. I may be narrow-mined but i just don't
see it.
No name provided
USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 11:27:03 (PST)
This seems like a very controversial topic, but one that
needs discussing. In response to most of the recent "No Name
Provided" comments, I have to disagree. There is nothing
wrong with Americans, as friends... And true, there are some bad
arabs out there, but your missing the point. From how I was
brought up, it is very important for me to keep my culture, and
marry an arab. In that case, marrying an American I decided to
date & fall in love with, wouldnt be very smart. Although, it
wouldnt be any smarter to marry an arab man you weren't happy
with. It is very important to ensure the happiness of your
future, but also the happiness of your family & children.
Marrying an arab, or anyone of the same culture, basically
ensures that your kids will have the culture and be raised
without the common problems & conflictions most interracial
marriages have. To those who have experienced otherwise, I am not
doubting your happiness or strength of culture by any means. I
dont know how important culture is to most of you, but being arab
is what makes me, me. So to the others with mutual feelings, it
only makes sense to marry someone of the same arab culture. I
wish the best for everyone :)
Sophia Sahouri <CUZuNOthis@aol.com>
Great Falls, VA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 20:35:32 (PST)
You guys are really making yourselfs look really small.
Please grow up and understand your culture. Or maybe some of you
guys are just a little americanized and confused.
No Name Provided
USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 16:07:43 (PST)
To NO NAME: I am very proud to be an Arab, and I WILL keep
my culture alive...by teaching others about my culture...by
teaching my kids...by teaching my husband (if he happens not to
be Arabic, although I do PREFER Arabic)...and you better believe
I will be with a man who loves me for my culture as well and who
will be willing to learn. I dare not settle for someone who will
force me to lose all the morals and standards I was raised with.
I was having a bad day when I wrote my last message, so sorry for
sounding abrupt. But my point is, what's so wrong with
Americans??? There are a lot of good ones out there...and there
are a lot of BAD Arabs out there too...I've gone out with a few
Arabic men and I feel I have nothing in common with them (so far)
because a lot of the ones I have met think so old-school and I
refuse to narrow my mind. There is nothing wrong with that....and
I am just tired of everyone thinking,"Americans are
bad...Arab are good...." when its not true. I feel that the
younger Arabic men and women of today should think this way
too...it's not about education or smarts...it's just plain common
sense.
No Name Provided
USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 06:57:28 (PST)
Hey Digusted, your a disgrace to the arabs who want to keep
their culture alive by dating another arab. To some people that's
important. By the way you talk it sounds like you hate being
arab. Stop acting like a big feminist who hates the world. It
doesn't pay!!
No Name Provided
USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 08:32:54 (PST)
To No Name Provided - you must be pretty whopped by either
your mom or woman for you to get that defensive. i'm not a
feminist, i'm realistic...you just can't take the truth.
No Name Providedv
USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 19:09:42 (PST)
I am an Anthropology student at the University of North
Florida. I am in the process of doing research on the immigration
of Palestinians from Ramallah to Jacksonville, FL. As a female
caucasian I am wondering if I can get some advise on customs and
methods of discourse before I begin the one on one interview
process. I have chosen to do research on the American Ramallah
Federation in particular because of the locality, personal
interest in Arab culture, and the impressive website. I can also
be reached by phone at (904)242-2811. Thank you for your help.
Raina Barthelme <imrainabart@juno.com>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 13:05:06
(PST)
To No Name Provided - Israeli - occupied... You are correct
in the gender "thing" being a major difference between
here and there. But, I must say that I am fortunate to be able to
experience that difference. You stated that woman who works out
of the home and has kids and a husaband is nothing to brag about.
Well, I work so I can have my kids. I carry the health insurance.
My husband has health problems - which are under control thanks
to the insurance that I carry. Unless they got a full scholarship
to pay for all of their college, my kids would not be able to be
what they want to be when they grow up if I didn't work. I work
to have a house of our own and to be able to give my kids nice
things. For a long time, my mother did not work outside, and I
didn't have the opportunites that I want my boys to have. I love
my boys dearly. I am not offended by your opinion. However, I
would absolutely love it if I was able to be a stay at home mom
with my kids. I do not regret working outside the home. I have a
very loving and wonderful relationship with them. Again, my views
are because I was raised in America. I'm sure that your views are
because of where you were raised. If our lives were reversed, I'm
sure that we would feel differently than we do now. Please e-mail
me as I am interested in continuing this conversation.
TLF <farhat_93@hotmail.com>
USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 07:07:23 (PST)
You all sound like your competing with one another. Instead
of all this gibberish talk about doing a better job educating our
daughters and holding down a home, why don't you take your own
advice and do that better job. Our parent's have raised us to be
the best that we can be and not to be judgemental of others. Just
because someone chooses not to have a full time career doesn't
make them any less than what they really are. In fact I know a
lot of people who are very successful and decided college wasn't
for them. So does that make them a bad person??? God created us
to be equal, so why don't you all treat each other that way. Just
be yourselves and you'll get all the respect you deserve. I hope
my comments didn't offend anyone and I apologize if they did. :)
Diane
USA - Monday, January 08, 2001 at 14:38:38 (PST)
To NO NAME PROVIDED: I would rather date an American man
then an Arabic man who thinks the way you do. Why are you being
so OLD-SCHOOL?!?!?!? I get so ANNOYED when the Arab youth still
think they are better than everyone else!!!! It's the year 2001!
Time to MOVE ON PEOPLE!!!!!! There are lots of nice people out
there!!!!! Just be with whoever makes you HAPPY...who CARES if
they aren't Arabic? UGH!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't take this!!!!!!
Disgusted!!!!! <ArabWomen@LovesAnyNiceGuy.com>
ArabMenAintAllThat, FL USA - Monday, January 08, 2001 at 08:19:47
(PST)
Hello TLF and Millenium Girl......I have to disagree
slighty with both of you. This gender discussion will lead no
where in that everything is well known by the entire world (as
mentioned in my previous message). That is one reason (of many)
why our culture is fortunately not the same as the American way
of life. Thanks again...
No Name Provided
Israeli-occupied, USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 11:26:42
(PST)
New Millenium Girl... 1960? Wow.. do I really sound that
old? Scary, 'cuz I'm not. Lena.. thanks for showing that people
can share different opinions without getting offended. To all who
thought my comments were offensive towards women.. my
apologies... my comments were geared towards the political and
not the personal. I am outnumbered 3 to 1 in my home as far as
gender is concerned. Yes, women are the backbone of the home. I
work, come home and take care of things there as well. We share
the responsibilites at home, but the little ones call mommy when
they are hurt, sick, or have a bad dream. I have a little quip of
what a dad means when he says goodnight vs what a mom means when
she says goodnight. I anyone would like to read it, please e-mail
me as it would take up too much room here. My last comment on
this subject.. women have come a long way, and in MY eyes, still
have a ways to go be considered equal in OTHER'S eyes. I know
that in several areas women have to work harder to be recognized
as capable, I do not believe in women stepping on anyone to get
there. Yes, give your daughters every opportunity your mother or
grandmothers did not have. Sorry but I only have sons, so they
will get as much as I can give them. God willing, I will some day
have a daughter to give the same opportunities to as well.
TLF <farhat_93@hotmail.com>
USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 13:27:45 (PST)
To "Millenium Girl"......you sound like a big
time feminist. Why don't you go and date American guys then? What
you are saying makes very little sense and I don't think that a
woman with kids and husband who works out of the house is much to
brag about. Act like a lady, not like an agressive woman with
rebellious and masculine characteristics.....
No Name Provided
Israeli-occipied, USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 09:40:37
(PST)
To TLF... yes you're right, everyone has opinions and
everyone has a right to voice them, which is why I voice mine. We
are all unique individuals and have different ways of expressing
views. To LAYLA.. the answer to your question is yes. I do find
women being put down, insulting. Am I making a federal case out
of it? No. Although I find it insulting, it is moreso
disappointing reading. I know what I am personally capable of, so
I'm not taking it personal. Just voicing my view on the matter,
that's all. To "New Millenium Girl"... LOL to your name
and address you entered. That was cute! :) I have respect for men
and for women and respect for what each of us as individuals are
capable of contributing to the world. Yes, I can relate to
"women's instincts" and yes women tend to be more
emotional then men. However, my overall point from the other day
was God gave both men AND women brains, so let's not overlook
that. I'm not saying women should rule the world and I'm not
saying men should rule the world. I look at things with more
equality than that. But hey, this is just me expressing my
views......
Lena <Lena0511@aol.com >
Jacksonville, FL USA - Friday, January 05, 2001 at 12:19:43 (PST)
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Please pray for peace and the protection of
our relatives and friends in the Middle East. God Bless You All.
Sonia Badra <Sonia@MainNet.com>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Friday, January 05, 2001 at 10:03:23 (PST)
I am very much intersted in the history of Ramallah because
our family is one of the old founders of the city. We retraced
our origins to the middle ages when we were nomads in the Shoback
in Jordan, over the years our family name changed from Haddadin
to Machni to Fallaha. Our family moved to Jaffa at the begining
of the twentieth century.
Nicole Fallaha <nicofal@hotmail.com>
Atlanta , GA USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 14:04:03 (PST)
Message to Karen......I beleive the singer is Kazem
el-Saher from Iraq.
J S
Washington, DC USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 09:03:11 (PST)
Ok, ok... it seems as though no matter what anyone says,
someone is going to get offended... I am guilty of the same
thing. I think the thing that really riles people is the men vs
women thing. Yes, I know that my comments got to some people. I
have a decent paying job which I completely enjoy, I am married
and have two wonderful children. My job requires using my brain,
not emotions. However, without BOTH men and women, everything
would cease. To my knowledge, there has only been one time where
a woman got pregnant without an earthly man's help. No one gender
is responsible for all the problems in the world. And for the
person who basically insulted Jan for not being part of the
Palestinian heritage, where are my insults?? I am not Palestinian
or any bit Arabic. Is it because I am married to a Palestinian?
Bottom line... everyone has opinions... we may not like them, but
I'm sure that not everyone agrees with or likes your or mine! I
have a challenge... the next time someones words jumps off the
screen of this guestbook and physically slaps someone, let me
know... otherwise, take this guestbook for what it is... a way to
express DIFFERENT opinions.
TLF <farhat_93@hotmail.com>
USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 08:45:10 (PST)
This is for Lena. You are insulted? Habibty come on
already!
Layla
Ramallah, Palestine - Wednesday, January 03, 2001 at 17:34:02
(PST)
Ahlan wa Sahlan! I hope the dreadful bloodshed in Palestine
and Israel will soon cease and that there will be justice for all
the people of the region. Salaam, Edgar
Edgar Locke <edgarlocke@yahoo.com>
USA - Wednesday, January 03, 2001 at 16:09:24 (PST)
You go, LINA!! you are absolutely right. in fact, women
should get more credit then men these days for the simple fact
that, on top of being career women now a days, they are ALSO
juggling with the most important job of being a wife and mother.
most men go to work and come home, and their jobs are done. On
top of working out of the home these days, a woman has to deal
with boo-boo's, helping with homework, laundry, cooking, bedtime
stories, and organizing for the next day. since when is it a
crime to be emotional? i bet those husband and fathers wouldn't
like it if us women were rude all day and had no compassion, as
its us WOMEN who hold the family structure together. If you ask
me, women already rule the world. its just behind the scenes, men
just won't admit the they are whopped!! and another thing: please
all you arabie women, lets not just worry about educating our
sons -- educate our DAUGHTERS!! Give them a voice. PEACE
NEW MILLENIUM GIRL, update yourselves, will you?
2001 girl, not 1960, USA - Wednesday, January 03, 2001 at
08:43:06 (PST)
I was wondering if anyone knew the singer who sings the
Arabic song Hathe el Lone (I probably spelled it wrong!
Translated = This Color). Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year!
Karen <karebearm@aol.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Monday, January 01, 2001 at 21:55:01 (PST)
I hope everyone had a blessed Christmas and I wish each of
you a happy new year. It's been awhile since I've read the
entries here and I must say how disappointed I am in some of the
recent entries replying to Jan. First, if Jan is American, I hope
nobody here is putting her down because of that. And secondly, we
are in the year 2001, yet we have people here (including women)
that feel that women's actions are based on "emotions and
feelings"???? I find those comments as well as comments
referring to how behind the times the world would be if women
were in charge, insulting. Women have brains people and I suggest
all of you (men and women) use them. This is a fact, not an
emotion.
Lena <Lena0511@aol.com>
Jax, FL USA - Monday, January 01, 2001 at 21:29:48 (PST)