Dana Al-Rashid


Dana Al-Rashid

I see this almost every day, but I don't think I'll ever get used to it: In the coffee shop I often go to, locals come in, wearing the most fashionable attire, carrying luxurious handbags (if women), and stepping outside their expensive cars; usually accompanied by family, friends, and loved ones. But, despite all the comfort and luxury they effortlessly enjoy; they are always frowning! It doesn't matter if the weather is mild or harsh, or if it's a work day or even a holiday, the grimace is always there; accompanying them in all circumstances.

The waiter greets them, but his welcoming hellos are ignored. I try to find them an excuse; perhaps they don't speak English, perhaps they are shy, perhaps...But, before I ponder any further, they request their order in fluent, harsh English. An English that is void of hellos, excuse mes, and thank yous; it comes with a condescending, impatient tone.

I accidently lock eyes with one of these "frowning" customers. She gives me an aggressive stare, all too ready to attack. I look away... I must have been mad thinking I could give her the usual friendly smile.

And as soon as her waiting time exceeds five minutes, she starts huffing impatiently and grimacing some more, rushing the poor waiter who nervously prepares her order and hands it over, praying that he gets it perfectly. Because if he doesn't, God forbid, he'd be in big trouble. She snatches her order and leaves, with no sign of gratitude, not even a goodbye. I stop in awe, amazed at how such interaction became the norm here.

No wonder we are the 4th unfriendliest nation in the world, according to CNN travel (2013)! We also happen to be the world's worst destination for expats, according to The Expat Insider 2016 poll.

Yes, we are privileged; we're blessed with luxuries and comfort beyond what labor workers could ever have in this lifetime. So should we make them eternally sorry for not winning this arbitrary genetic lottery? Has empathy become so foreign to us that we can no longer imagine what's it like to be in their shoes?

They work for gruelingly long hours for meager pay, taking all of our insults with a smile. For they have no other choice, if they want to continue feeding their families. Just like anyone else, they like being treated with kindness and respect. But unfortunately, kindness and empathy became so rare that they would actually come up to thank you for being nice!

We have everything we want, yet we grimace in discontentment. True, we may have everything, but what we truly lack is patience and understanding that extends to others.

By Dana Al Rashid