Gaza Blog: Ashraf in Nicosia
It was very challenging for Ashraf leave the Gaza Strip, and at this moment, it’s been two weeks since he has been in Nicosia, Cyprus. He is there to learn the English language so he can continue his studies in Computer Engineering.
Every day we talk to Ashraf and chat with him via the internet by using one of the instant messaging services, he seems very excited because he always wanted to study abroad, learn a new language and explore a new culture; he has always liked to communicate with people from outside his country.
He told me that life in Cyprus is very different than life in Gaza Strip, he feels safe and in a complete comfort, he is getting to know a new city and is meeting with people from all around Europe, but he always has Gaza on his mind and he still in contact with his friends in Gaza strip.
A few days ago, some domestic violence occurred and the news spread fast, Ashraf found out about it through the internet and his friends.He immediately called us to make sure that we are all ok; I could feel it in the tone of his voice that he was worried and anxious when he was talking to me over the phone; but I comforted him and assured him that everything is ok.
In the mean while, I remembered when I used to study abroad in the university, I was away from my family also, I use to feel the same way Ashraf does. Ashraf now, passes through two phases; the first one; exploring new world with its culture and kinds. The second one, he is homesick and misses his home and country. But I think that Ashraf is going be fine and is in a safe place, he will do good in his studies.
We miss him very much, and by the way, more than 50% of the Gaza Strip population lives outside due to Political and Economical situation and many of them they can’t come back because of the siege and borders closing.Even though we are happy for Ashraf that he made it to the outside the Gaza Strip and he is now in a beautiful place like Cyprus, we still miss a dear person. Being away is like a small death, but we still have hopes that we would tell him one day welcome back to your place people.
Read more Gaza blogs:
The Village Director and his daily worries
How Farah lived her days during the war
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