- Espresso Man
As I entered the Hamadiyeh souk, this man offered me a cup of his coffee. Being American, I thought he was from a local coffee shop and was drumming up business by offering samples of his coffee. At first I demurred, but his charming smile broke down any reluctance I had of drinking from a communal cup. (Besides I have a trick…I place my thumb on the lip of the cup and my mouth only touches my thumb.) So, I drank the tablespoon or so of coffee. Quite good. I thanked him, took some photos and went on my way.
It wasn’t until I was home and looking at his handsome face that it hit me that I was supposed to have paid for my coffee. There were no coffee shops giving out samples. He was trying to make some money by selling his coffee. Oh, I felt small!!! If only I could send him a photo, but there was no way I could get it to him.
I must say, he did not react when I didn’t pay him. He was gracious, as if he were my host and it was his job to make my day in the souk pleasant. Arab hospitality. It’s ingrained. But I think the Syrians were the most gracious of any culture I have visited. They haven’t had time to get sick of tourists.
I like this man’s looks. Syria has been a crossroads since Greek and Roman times and I think he represents these cultures with his muscular physique, his height…maybe 5’10” and his handsome features. I was surprised to see so many muscular Syrian men. There were many tall, slender men who looked desert born and bread, as well.
Today, I say “Thank you.” to this man. I wish him well.