It was a very hot and busy day. The streets were too crowded and the people were all jaded by the weather and the harsh mundane life.
At that day, I decided to try something different. I got into a public transportation bus with costs only 0.75 pounds, so this means it is only used by the lower and the simple class of the Egyptian society.
When I got there, I was feeling so uncomfortable and disoriented. People were trying to look at me as they were confused that I don't look poor or economically disabled to get myself into the dilemma of this crowded bus. To be honest, it was too much for me and I felt that I needed air to breath. I was feeling breathless and the smell was awful.
Out of all of these, something caught my attention and made my heart pound. I was really to proud to be one of those people, The Egyptians. They do have the kindest hearts and most generous souls even if they don't have to much to give.
While the bus was going around Dokki Streets a dustman was trying to get into the bus, but the "Komthary" or "Komsary", the man who collects money from passenger, was trying to push the old dustman out as the believed he won't afford the transportation fees. Suddenly, a strong voice of a lady came out from the back of the vehicle, "I will pay him, let him in!!". I looked at her, and then I looked to the front at the dustman to find him smiling to the lady and waving his shaky hands to send her his thanks, politely. Then he gave a long sigh and took a deep breath closing his eyes and opening them again. In all cases, he was just smiling. He was so shy and embarrassed and he tried to hide that through his smile that showed up his missing teeth. His smile hided a lot behind his undecided blue eyes. He looked too tired and weak. His eyes said it all. I felt a burden on his weak body. It was there, but no one noticed.
Then it was time for me to get out as I had reached my destination. I went down and the image of that dustman was still there in my mind, and until now, I can picture his face and sleepless eyes inside my mind, again. I am thinking about him and how generous and brave that lady is. I feel ashamed because I should have done this instead of her. I am quite sure that I had much money in my pocket than her during that moment, and still she gave up what I should have given.
After all, I remembered the dustman's smile, and I realized that I should thank Allah for what he had given me. Also I learned that it is not money that counts, it is the beauty of the heart(Lady) and the simplicity and purity of the soul(Dustman) that make life easier.
I was emotionally shaken.
I feel so proud that I do belong to this people.
Just like an Egyptian, I breathe.
Now I can say that the Egyptians really did change themselves after Jan25th.
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