Hello, I am Sewon Park from SUN Security. I am currently studying abroad in Egypt as an exchange student. As a Korean student coming to a country located almost on the opposite side of the world, I have experienced many cultural differences. Among them, I would like to share the most meaningful experience I had.
The day I left Korea for Egypt was the beginning of Ramadan. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, a sacred period during which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, cultivating self-discipline and strengthening their faith through prayer, while also reflecting on those in need. As a result, daily life in Egypt tends to slow down during Ramadan due to fasting.
Arriving in an unfamiliar land during this time was initially very challenging. Around sunset, it was difficult to find a taxi, restaurants that were listed as open were often closed, many shops did not open during the day, and government offices would close as early as 2 p.m. My first few days in Egypt unfolded negatively in this way. However, as I experienced Ramadan more deeply, I began to notice a different side of it.
Whenever I encountered difficulties on the street, people would come up one by one to help me. And they would leave me with a phrase: “رمضان كريم”.
This expression can be translated as “Generous Ramadan.” During this period, it replaces common greetings and reflects the kindness of the people. Ramadan feels like a magical time, as it is a season when people become more generous and compassionate.
People would personally prepare and share traditional Arabic food with me out of curiosity about my interest, and after sunset, when they were eating on the streets, they would freely offer me food as well. Wealthier individuals would even pay for meals at restaurants so that anyone in need could eat for free.
During Ramadan, I also found myself changing. I began giving small gifts to those around me and sharing simple food with children on the streets. I tried to embody the spirit of Ramadan by letting cars pass first, refraining from irritation over small matters, and practicing patience and kindness in everyday life.
After experiencing such kindness for an entire month, I felt my heart becoming filled with something. I chose to call it “happiness.” In modern society, individualism has become more prominent, and people are increasingly reluctant to inconvenience themselves for others. However, if you pause for a moment and look around, you will surely find someone in need of your help. For that person, try stopping your path briefly and offering a small act of kindness. The poverty of the heart, which cannot be fulfilled by material abundance, can be filled through kindness.
