To My Beleaguered Country Men and Women

Deny the worst part of yourself any avenue for expression. Suppress your innate Lebanese character flaws (which we all know well) and let the outside world see your most civilized visage. Lend your manner a gentle aspect. Suppress your arrogance and break the chains of fear that bind you to morbid tradition in the service of feudal overlords. Then and only then fellows will you have attained the rank of evolved mammals.

I know that most Lebanese, and especially male Lebanese, were pampered and mothered well into early adulthood. Our expectations are therefore a little skewed, to say the least. We are a nation of big little boys essentially. Most male Lebanese walk peacock like, powdered and perfumed, feathers on full display behind classy cool shades and literally expect the world to fall to its knees and worship at the feet of perfection.

Its little wonder then we have so many angry, disillusioned, middle-aged, pot-bellied balding men in this country. They were young once too. Think about it.

Arm yourself with grace and magnanimity, the beauty of the soul has no sell-by date. Fill your heart with love and consideration for others rather than filling your pockets with gold. Respect others through your actions; don’t expect their appreciation, as you will wait in vain.

Remember that words spoken slowly and softly to the heart have changed the world in the past, especially those spoken on the pillow. Anger is your worst enemy, others soon forget your tantrums, but your heart has a good memory and he will remind you one day when you least expect it.

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