Third Meeting with Hashim

This afternoon Hashim and I met again by Union Grounds. I feel like I'm really getting to know Hashim based on our conversations. We were able to sit on the couches and talk for an hour without any lulls in conversation. We covered a range of topics from fall break to the elections. Hashim stayed in Fort Worth for the break because going home is a little out of the question. He shared the story of his failed attempt at going to the football game. Hashim and his friends had to park far away from the stadium and trudge through the cold to the gate. At this point, Hashim realized he forgot his ID. Instead of going to get it, they all gave up and went to do something else. The subject of football led us to Casey Pachall. Hashim was surprised by the degree of reprimand. To him, it wasn’t a big deal that Pachall was caught behind the wheel. I’m not sure if it is a personal opinion or cultural difference, but we had a difference of opinion on the punishment. Talking about our football team led to sports in general. While we both played soccer in the past, Hashim is an avid fan and player of many sports. On the weekends, a group of the IEP students play soccer and volleyball. Hashim also played handball back home. He quickly explained the game and his ability. Apparently, Hashim was a top player in his country when he was in middle school. Athleticism runs in the family, the large family! In Saudi Arabia, Hashim’s family gathers together every weekend at his grandfather’s. His mother is one of seven children and the only girl. Hashim grew up with family around all the time and remains close to them.  We ended up talking about the difference in families. Most other cultures place importance family. While family is important to me and many others, I couldn't honestly say I am close to all of my cousins, aunts and uncles. Hashim on the other hand considers his uncles like brothers. Differences like this amaze me. I would love if I was closer to my extended family but the dynamic is so different than that with my siblings.

We also hit one of our favorite topics – movies. Hashim had excitedly told me about the new movie Looper. In our previous meetings, he had talked about how great the movie was meant to be. He planned on going with some friends after our last meeting. When I asked him about the movie, he could hide his disappointment. The movie didn't stand Hashim’s high expectations. After admitting it was good, not as good as he hoped, he pointed out some of the flaws in the film. The minor flaws won't keep me from seeing the film at some point. So, if you are thinking of seeing Looper, it is a do! I decided to tell Hashim about the movie I’m planning on seeing tomorrow, Pitch Perfect. Before I told him, I was a little embarrassed to tell him because I felt the movie wasn't of the caliber he likes. But he was so excited when I told him! Turns out, Hashim went with his friends over fall break. He gushed about the movie and how funny it was. This just showed me the concept of universal humor. Hashim enjoyed and laughed at a feel-good movie. When I go see it tomorrow, I'll be wondering what Hashim found funny.