Grateful Generosity: Thanksgiving and Eid al-Adha Remix

Note this post is my outsider’s reflection on observing the sacrifice of the the Islamic Eid al-Adha festival this year in Amman Jordan.  For my outsider’s summary on the broader details of Eid al-Adha, check out last year’s post here.  I’m not sure why but as of Nov 2009 it’s the most viewed page on [...]

When Soup Tastes Better than Steak

There was a knock on the kitchen door the other day around 4:45 PM.  It was Joe (not his real name) our Egyptian building super.  We exchanged Arab greetings and pleasantries by my front door and then he explained the purpose of his call.  He and his family wanted to bring us supper.  Of course [...]

Amman turns . . . 100?

Anyone who has paid any attention over the last several months knows that 2009 is the year marking Amman’s centennial.  Banners, flags, and special events have pointed to this fact all year.  2009 also happens to be the 10 year anniversary of HM King Abdullah II’s ascension to the throne, so all-in-all it truly is [...]

Power Distance in Jordanian Culture

I have two other posts brewing – one on the Pope’s visit and another on the local zoo, but while those are percolating a little here’s a thought on . . .
Power distance in Jordanian Culture
In grad school we learned about “Power Distance” and the role it plays in culture.  Anyone who has had any [...]