Hope Through Language: A Mother’s Letter From Lebanon
At NaTakallam, we connect you with talented language tutors from around the world, offering not only top-quality online language learning opportunities but also a window into rich cultural insights. In this letter, Abir, a NaTakallam Language Partner from Lebanon, shares her story of growth, motherhood, and hope, in the face of conflict. Abir’s journey is a powerful reminder of how language is a source of strength, even in the most uncertain of times.
"Bukra Ahla" (بكرا أحلى) – Tomorrow will be better. That’s what I tell my kids every time Lebanon faces another crisis.
War in Lebanon Then and Now
I vividly remember the summer of 2006, my first experience living through war in Lebanon. At the time, I was only a teenager. The war felt like a distant reality; sounds of explosions in the background. Family gatherings filled our house, and there was even a strange sense of naive joy for me as loved ones sought refuge together. I was shielded from many responsibilities, such as securing food, water, and electricity. My parents took care of everything.
Now, in 2024, I am in their shoes. As a mother of two young children, the experience of war is dramatically different. It’s no longer just about my safety – I have to protect my family, both physically and emotionally. War through a mother’s eyes is exhausting. Every day, I have to stay positive for my kids, no matter how dark things get. I spend my days answering their questions in a way that preserves their innocence, keeping their spirits up with activities, all while also being ready to leave at a moment’s notice. It’s a weight I carry constantly, trying to be their pillar of strength through the uncertainty that surrounds us.
Abir with her two children
Beauty through Hope
The situation around us is only worsening. Our neighborhood is overcrowded as displaced families desperately seek some semblance of safety. What used to be a ten-minute errand now takes over an hour. Houses are crammed full, and schools have turned into shelters.
Houses are crammed full, and schools have turned into shelters. The children are the ones who suffer the most – losing their education, their friendships, and any sense of normalcy.
Through it all, I am reminded that the beauty of Lebanon lies not just in its landscapes but in its people. Our communities pull together in times of need. To me, Lebanon is like a mother – imperfect, yes, but dearly beloved and impossible to leave behind. “Bukra Ahla” is the promise I make to Lebanon, my children, and myself, as a reminder that, despite everything, there’s a future worth fighting for.
Purpose in Every Lesson
NaTakallam is more than a job for me – it’s a second family. One of my colleagues, a Palestinian Language Partner, despite facing her own struggles in Palestine, checks in on me regularly. The connection with my students gives me a sense of purpose. It allows me to do something beyond the confines of my home and the chaos outside.
“All we have is hope,” I remind myself. “Bukra Ahla” – tomorrow will be better. I keep repeating these words, holding on to the promise of better days to come.
Now, Abir wants to share that sense of purpose. By learning Arabic with NaTakallam tutors like Abir, learners are not only gaining a new skill but also supporting a family striving for hope in difficult times. Together, we can build bridges of understanding and create a meaningful impact. Partner with Abir to learn Arabic, and help make a difference, one lesson at a time.
Abir has been teaching Arabic with NaTakallam since 2022
This post is part of the “Letters from our Language Partners” series, where NaTakallam Language Partners share their unique stories, cultures and experiences through the lens of language learning and connection. Want to immerse yourself in a new culture or learn a new language from native speakers? Book a session with one of NaTakallam’s expert tutors and connect with a community that brings language and culture to life.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Abir is in her early thirties, a Lebanese resident who has dedicated ten years to teaching maths and science. Recently, she focused on studying psychology in addition to working as a teacher for students with special needs. Passionate about travel, shopping, and meeting new people, Abir finds joy in exploring diverse cultures and experiences .
ABOUT THE EDITOR: Lenora Dsouza is an intern at NaTakallam and is currently pursuing her Masters degree in International security at Sciences Po Paris. She is passionate about learning new cultures, travelling and binge watching tv shows.
Hope Through Language: A Mother’s Letter From Lebanon Read More »
