How do you remember your childhood in
delicate nature created a sense of vulnerability subject
Lebanon, and the way it was affected by the
to all kinds of disturbances. I recall the wave of
conflicts of that time?
political upheavals that swept the country in the late
fifties and culminated in the 1958 Civil War,
Growing up in Lebanon, a precious country with
disrupting life with terrible fighting, paralyzing all
spectacular beauty and rich history, provided me a
normal activities, shutting down schools and creating
cheerful childhood filled with adventures, exploration
a depressed atmosphere. The crystal-clear view of the
and learning. My home offered a spectrum of multiple
blue sky, and the entire vista of the magnificent
cultures and traditions reflecting my parents’
mountains and the beautiful coastal cities along the
immigration experiences in the U.S. and Mexico
Mediterranean, became obscured with dark clouds
where they kept strong ties. Their dedication and
and smoke arising from the explosion of bombs and
vision inspired great confidence in pursuing my
burning buildings. Many images of the disturbances
education and developing my interests. Lebanon
and happenings remain etched in my heart and mind.
embraces eastern and western civilization and
It was during these chaotic events that I felt a deep
Levantine characteristics, giving it its unique
desire to travel.
cosmopolitan character. But its strategic location and