World Today :: essays papers

World Today The world today, more than ever, is a steadly shrinking planet, as new technology allows us to cross boundaries and attempt feats that were once only dreams of science fiction novelists. Yet, even as progress roots out old ways of life, and new technology makes obsolete time honored traditions, we never lose sight of the rich cultures to which our earth is home. Even today, the world is still a colorful and vibrant place, filled with a myriad of exotic cultures, each with its own unique and enthralling history and traditions. It is this increasing charm and fascination with the ancient that invariably draws the curiosity of outsiders. This fact has even permeated itself throughout my life. No matter where I go and wherever I end up, there is always some measure of curiosity concerning the other hemisphere of the world. Before and especially following any significant trip, I repeatedly face the same line of inquiry, â€Å"What is the Middle East like?†. To this question I have often respond with a casual and simple answer, â€Å"It’s okay†. Upon my return from the Middle East this past summer however, I began to feel this response horriblyinsufficient, and I decided to contemplate a more meaningful answer. I quickly came across amental block as I started thinking to myself, how could I ever possibly convey the sights, the sounds and the feelings of this region, so vibrant and culturally rich, to anyone who has not had the fortune to see it for themselves? Despite these difficulties, I began to draft my thoughts. In an attempt to bring in perspective the rich and inspiring heritage of the region, I progressively began to picture my most recent vacation to Arabia, and letting my memories take charge, I began describing to the best of my ability t he highlights of my trip. Dawn crept up sluggishly the day I arrived in Saudi Arabia after my twenty-eight hour flight. After fighting, unsuccessfuly, for a few hours of some much needed sleep, I was just about to drift into doze off when the nearby mu’athin announced the dawn prayer, calling all faithful Muslims to their morning religious duty. Trying to turn over and sleep after an exhausting trip, I found my efforts compromised by the piercing bright desert sun that now edged over the horizon. Rousing myself from bed, I readied myself for the coming day, planing and imagining what each successive day would bring. Reintroducing myself to familiar sights, I noticed the same young boys from so