Adel Salaheldin ~ Where I’m From: El Minya, Egypt

I am from admiring many boats and ships moving on the Nile in the “Pride of Upper Egypt”, my city, El Minya.

Queen Cleopatra statues, the blue of the Nile, the green of the farms

From where the dessert hugs the Nile Valley.

I am from farming, industry, and tourism.

The sugar cane farms, the white stone quarries, and the tombs of the Pharaohs.

I am from a beautiful city, clean streets, and good people.

From the sunrise coming from behind the mountain, and the sunset going over the farms.

I am from the smelling of tasty hot grilled corn and wheat bread.

From a delicious and fresh juice of sugar cane.

I am from grilled meat, grilled corn, and fried Falafel everywhere.

From Upper Egypt’s drums and flutes, which drive horses to dance.

I am from the firing of shots in the sky to share and celebrate a wedding party.

From the sound of the wind over the Nile.

I am from the shiny moon reflecting on the dark, clear, blue River Nile.

I’m from “If manhood is measured by the mustache, a cockroach will become the leader”.

Sounds of happiness, ships, and crowds.

From farmers in the morning going to their farms, and women always helping their husbands.

I’m from feelings of happiness for my brother, sharing with my friend, working with my family, and helping anyone asked for help.

I’m from tastes of eating Molokhia, eating Falafel, and drinking “dust” tea.

I am from those moments.