I recently went to the world famous Egyptian Museum. Unfortunately I was not able to take pictures, but hopefully I can convey how spectacular some of the artifacts in the museum are. I went with my roommate Curtis and our good friend Caitlin. Located in downtown Cairo, the Egyptian museum is a massive terra-cotta colored building. Inside are some of the most precious treasures of ancient Egypt. Mummies, jewelry, tombs, and statues inundate this museum. It almost seems as though there are too many things. Among some of the highlights were the lines of small sphinxes, elaborately decorated sarcophagi, and striking statues of Nefertiti, Khafre, and Zoser. However, the most amazing and unbelievable exhibit is the room filled with Tutankhamun's antiquities. I was so impressed by the mint condition of King Tut's sarcophagus. The gold and the colors are as vivid as ever, and it is truly mind blowing to think that they are such amazing condition after over three thousand years. His death mask is incredible as well, as it is made out of solid gold! I was extremely pleased with the Egyptian Museum. Being a huge history buff, it probably is one of the best museums I have ever gone to.
Yesterday, we all went to the Arab League. I wasn't sure what to expect from this visit, as the US Embassy visit was quite disappointing. However, this was completely different for the better! We arrived there, dressed in suits, and were ushered into a very elegant looking room with a long wooden table with microphones at every chair. We then had a very intelligent, and in-depth discussion with a high ranking diplomat. He was so methodical in the way he answered each and every question. He took his time, choosing each word perfectly, wanting to make his point perfectly clear. This diplomat answered each question as though he had been preparing for it beforehand, and for the most part, he addressed everything we asked thoroughly. We talked about everything from terrorism, democracy, elections, economic development, and human rights. Ultimately I was extremely pleased by the experience. The actual building has a certain grandeur attached to it. The assembly room and the outside patio were quite fascinating sites as well. This is certainly a place that I would enjoy to work in some day. This type of intergovernmental work is what I am interested in, especially after this positive experience.
Today we went to St. Andrews, a center for refugee assistance. There, workers educate and give legal assistance to refugees from Iraq, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Somalia. It was inspiring to hear the director of the legal assistance department talk about their work helping relocate refugees. It seems like frustrating and sad at times, but I believe it must be such a rewarding experience to assist these people. Again, I would love to perhaps work for them in the future. Being able to help people that escape persecution and safely relocating them so they can start their lives anew seems extremely noble and gratifying.
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