Between Syria and the Palestinian territories lies a small nation of around 10,400 square kilometers called Lebanon – a country that is not always as the media shows. It does not wake up to the sound of bombs every morning. And most importantly, it does not suffer as much as other Arab countries do, notably Palestine, Syria and Iraq. Lebanon was able to stand up after being under the French Mandate, going through a civil war and an Israeli invasion. While the media tend only to show the terrorist attacks, the Shiite-Sunni conflict and the absence of a president, Lebanon is not defined by its flaws.
Everyone smiles
Despite the unstable situation that the Lebanese citizens are living through, they always find a way to smile. They have learned that life goes on, no matter how hard it gets. True, living in a country where it takes an effort to feel safe is not easy. But it is even harder to be away from your country and not stand by its side while it suffers. Lebanese citizens have learned to live even when breathing is hard. They have learned to love life, even when death draws close. And last but not least, they have taught themselves to smile, even when they are in tears.
The true leaders of Lebanon
When it comes to Lebanon, the true leaders of the country are not politicians, diplomats or celebrities. They are not part of the Parliament, do not work in embassies and do not have verified Twitter accounts. The future leaders of Lebanon do not have years of experience or academic titles. They are simply young educated souls who strive to make a change.
These young Lebanese citizens come from different religions, different political affiliations, different neighborhoods and they hold different dreams. But these young people have one thing in common: They refuse to give up on a country that has so much to offer. These are the true leaders because they use education as their weapon to make Lebanon a better place.
A small country with big-hearted people
Not everyone seems to get on, but Lebanese citizens are always there for each other. Their education, traditions and values have taught them to always give a helping hand. In this country, you will see people fighting on the streets who will have breakfast with each other the next morning. In Lebanon, you will meet a poor 9-year-old boy who will offer to hold your shopping bags and refuse to take anything in return.
In this country, you can make generous friends anywhere. In this country, people will teach you how to love unconditionally. In Lebanon, despite the tensions, you will learn how to survive, to forgive and to move on.
Family is important
Being an open-minded and modern country, Lebanon gives its young adults the opportunity to become independent, which unusual in the Arab world. Here, however, you do not visit your parents only on holidays.In this country, family comes first, no matter how old you get or how busy you are. Lebanese families are known for being loving and supportive, and will always welcome you with joy.Beautiful women
It is nothing new, yet it has to be mentioned when talking about Lebanon. Lebanese women take a lot of care over their looks, yet that doesn’t mean that they are shallow and superficial. They are smart, successful and inspiring. They know life is more than appearances, but they make sure to always look their best.
Haifa Wehbe, Nadine Njeim, Rina Chibani, Daniella Rahme, Jessica Azar, Rima Fakih, Lamitta Frangieh, Mona Abou Hamze, Maya Diab and Cyrine Abdelnour are all notable names of Lebanese beauties that are famous internationally for their charm.
But then again, maybe it is just the beauty of the country reflected in its women.
The news
Curious, Lebanese people have the need to know more, learn more and say more. They watch local, national and international news twice a day if not more, read the newspapers daily, check social media instantly and talk about it all day long. It is a curiosity that runs in their veins. Lebanese citizens cannot spend a day without being updated about what’s happening worldwide. These people do not know everything, but they would love to. The news is a big part of their lives, and gives them knowledge, certainty and confidence.
The nightlife
To those who have been to and enjoyed Ibiza, St. Tropez, Miami and other cities known for their nightlife: you may have to consider visiting Lebanon. No matter how bad the security situation might be, people always find time for partying, especially during summer. White, Iris, The One, BO18, the establishments on Uruguay Street, Garage, Publicity, Life and SkyBar are all famous and always overcrowded destinations for party animals coming from all over the globe.
The taxi drivers
As weird as it sounds, Lebanese taxi drivers are known for being the most talkative of all. Not only do they introduce themselves and ask you briefly about your job, but they also talk to you about the political, economic, social and environmental situation of the country, and even of the region. Most of them didn’t have the opportunity to continue their education, but life has taught them more than any book ever will. They tell you the ugly truth. They may offer life-changing advice that you don’t solicit. And most importantly, they do not judge you, because they are used to listening.
Religiously diverse
In Lebanon, we have two houses that we share with affection and respect: the mosque and the church. You’ll often find one next to the other. On Friday, we hear the call to prayer, and Sunday, we hear church bells. Lebanon doesn’t only have Muslims and Christians. It is one of the most religiously diverse countries in the Middle East, with 18 state-recognized religious sects. It is hard, but they learn every day to live with each other.
Lebanon is not a toy in terrorists’ hands. It is not a victim. Lebanon is a unique country full of life and has always been a survivor, a fighter and a dreamer.