Arabica

What does it mean when the word 'Qatar' induces an excitement in me, and a yearning for the very 'air' of that country?

I'm not a Qatari, and for all intents and purposes will never be one. Yet, I grew up in that land and to date have always felt a strong yearning for that tiny peninsula that is frequently in the news nowadays as it flexes its Foreign Policy muscle in relation to the ongoing events in the Arab world.

At present, I live the immigrant's dream in America; A position as a Project Manager in a rapidly growing Technology company. I have my American work visa stamped in my passport. Now a path has been set before me - live the corporate life and enjoy everything that America has to offer.

Yet, inside me, a powerful voice speaks. It's insistent that I set my sights on Qatar. It tells me to walk the dusty roads of Dukhan once again. Dukhan is my home, it will always be.

Qatar is far from perfect. In my 17 years of life there, never once have I had a meaningful interaction with a Qatari. The gap between expatriates and the locals is just that wide. However, the expatriate community creates a vibrant life while silently doing its duty tothat nation in exchange for a comfortable life (this does not apply to all expats).

I feel in my heart that i'm destined to go back. If anything, to be a mute witness to the land that i call my home. And I shall wait for the day I will. Leaving behind a career and propects for a bright future.