Conversation #4

For our fourth meeting, Nasrallah and I met up in Union Grounds, per usual. However, this time Nasrallah really wanted to take me out to lunch for our conversation. Obviously I agreed, considering any opportunity to get some food outside of the BLUU is an opportunity that cannot be passed up. Nasrallah always insists that he drives, which makes this occasion even sweeter. As we walked to his car, I asked Nasrallah where he wanted to go and he mentioned Terra Mediterranean Grill. Nasrallah told me that Terra has a few entree options that are similar to what he eats in Saudi Arabia. Thus, I was excited to eat there.

             The restaurant was buffet-style and had many options. Because Nasrallah is a regular at the restaurant, I had him point out what food I need to try. By the end of this process, I had 3 plates of food before me. And yes, I ate it all.

             For this meeting, I asked Nas if we could gear the conversation towards his religion. Nasrallah is Muslim, which means his religion is Islam. During the conversation, Nasrallah noted that many people do not understand what the words ‘Muslim’ and ‘Islam’ mean, along with the similarities and differences between the two. Basically, Islam is the religion and the word ‘Muslim’ is used to talk about an individual who follows the religion of Islam. As he talked about this, he seemed rather frustrated in American’s ignorance about this. Nasrallah then went on to describe some of his prayer ritual. As you may know, Muslims pray 5 times a day. Nasrallah completes this each day to the best of his ability.

             Through this conversation, I gained some more insight to who Nasrallah is as a person. I also gained a better sense of respect for followers of Islam. Growing up, I attended Catholic School my whole life, so I was never really exposed to different religions. It is a great experience being able to talk to someone about their religion and certain beliefs, especially with a Muslim. There seem to be so many stereotypes revolving around individuals of his religion, and it is only my wish that people would work to become more educated about the religion and more acquainted with the people who follow Islam.

             Before we left, Nasrallah invited me to a dance that was going on later that night in the BLUU ballroom. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend because of a Club meeting and Intramural game, but it was neat to see that Nasrallah really does enjoy his time spent with me and that he wants to hangout even outside of the conversation period. Nasrallah always thanks me for meeting with him, which is incredibly special considering I am the person who should be thanking him.