Sometimes, all we ever do is cry like tragedy is not an everyday occurrence in life. Yet, to really live, you have to also find ways to enjoy life even when the world around you implodes.
That has special meaning to Arabs whose world has been turned upside down by tyrants and demagogues, religious fanatics and secular fanatics, and an endless cascade of human tragedy where people die and their deaths become statistics that become weapons.
It's just the way it is, I guess. But there has to be more.
Recently a guy I admire, Sherif Hedayat, created a web site modeled after Facebook called "ArabComedy.tv." It's a great place on the Internet where you can discover the true diversity of the Arab World. There is that old saying that you put two Arabs in a room and you have five backstabbers, and 16 opinions, and enough emotion to light a fire. But the truth is, put two Arabs together and you get the real essence of humor.
And humor is the most powerful weapon against tyranny and tragedy that humans posses. We just don't always realize it.
Laughter strengthens the soul. It empowers you and empowers movements. Humor in the face and midst of tragedy is especially important because it can give you the strength that the will needs to survive.
I've been lucky to have performed with sherif in the past and he's been a guest on my morning radio show in Chicago. Humor breaks through the stereotypes and my mainstream American audience responds positively to Arab comedy. It's not unusual to get an American to comment later that just by hearing Sherif perform some of his material, it has changed how they see the Arab people.
So you go dude! Sherif, you're the best. I'm a dedicated fan of your endless creativity and your efforts. Sherif.TV is on my radar screen and I'll bet it will be a popular oasis for those who seek some comfort in a world that too often drowns in pain.
-- Ray Hanania
www.RadioChicagoland.com
