I have always heard about how Syria is the prettiest country and a land of good things.

My mom grew up there but she left in 2008 and came to Jordan because of the occupation. She went back in 2011 for her sister’s wedding, but at the end of that year, war started. Popular revolts, called the Arab Spring, arose in many Arab countries. Entire neighborhoods were destroyed and burned. My family came back to Jordan because of the terrorist gangs. Then, when I was little, my grandparents flew to America due to my grandfather’s illness. We would always use technology to communicate with them. After ten years, we decided to meet in Syria. A feeling of joy filled my heart, because I had never been to any other country except Jordan.

We booked a car and packed our bags. I was so excited to finally meet my grandmother and maternal uncle. When we arrived at the Jordanian-Syrian border, our hearts were beating so fast because of how excited we were. As you all know, Syria has been occupied for 13 years now. My mom thought it would be the same as it was in her childhood, because she hadn’t been there since the war began. It wasn’t easy looking at all the homes that were destroyed; we were disappointed by what we saw.

But when I met my mom’s amazing family that I didn’t know, what a fantastic feeling! We left our big family to meet an even bigger one. It was encouraging to know that some people out there loved and cared about us without meeting us.

That’s about the time my grandma and uncle came. I felt so nervous to meet them. The moment I saw them, my heart started racing. It was such a breathtaking and overwhelming experience. They looked so different! I wished I had one moment to see my grandfather ever again; even if it was a quick look, it would have meant the world to me.

How cruel is the war? Joelle, age ten, memorized poems and heritage songs to spread happiness amongst people. She is my cousin from my mom’s side of the family, but she is more like a sister to me. She is a child who is filled with life but has lost so much, like her childhood, her toys, and her friends. She was so happy when I got her a purple bicycle; I did not know but it was her favorite color!

We went to the beach. It was a dream come true for me and Joelle. I swallowed so much water and it was awfully salty. I experienced holding a jellyfish and learning that it’s transparent. How beautiful Mother Nature is! A mountain split in half to let out running water and formed a lake. We played with water, splashed it on each other, and it was really fun.

We went to a lot of restaurants that had the most magnificent views. One restaurant was built inside a mountain with an open ceiling. We went to a church called Um Al-Zanar church. It is one of the most blessed churches in Syria. After the war it was demolished by the occupation, but the youth protected a piece of the sacred belt of Mary.

I also spent a lot of my time in the house, since it had a delightful view of our unique neighbors. We were visited everyday by my grandmother’s friends and relatives.

This trip changed my view of the world and how cruel it can be. I learned how badly the war has affected Syria and its beautiful towns. Yet Syria is the most majestic, magnificent country I have ever been to or will ever be to. Despite all the devastation, Syria remains beautiful, strong, and always raises its flag. Syria has gone through a lot of punishments, but the people remain proud of their country. They are good people who deserve to live in peace.

Overall, the trip was a divine experience.