Abdinz

In a world where the mainstream media often paints certain nations and cultures with broad, negative strokes, it’s easy to forget that behind the sensational headlines are real people with rich histories, warm hearts, and stories that defy stereotypes. My recent experience meeting a friend from Iran reminded me of this truth in the most beautiful way—a truth that no news segment or political narrative could ever capture.

It all began during a road trip to Raglan, a picturesque coastal town in New Zealand. I struck up a conversation with a fellow traveler, and as we shared stories, I learned he was from Iran. What struck me immediately was his warmth and openness. We quickly bonded over our shared love for travel and food, and before I knew it, he invited me to his family’s home for dinner.

Here’s the twist: he lives less than 10 minutes away from my residence in Hamilton. It’s funny how life works—you can travel far and wide to meet people, only to find meaningful connections right in your backyard.

A Taste of Persia: Joojeh Kabab and Generosity

The evening at his family’s home was nothing short of magical. I was greeted with the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like you’ve known these people your entire life. The star of the night was the traditional Persian meal, Joojeh Kabab—succulent marinated chicken grilled to perfection, served with fragrant saffron rice and a side of grilled tomatoes. It was my first time trying Persian cuisine, and I was blown away. The flavors were rich, aromatic, and unlike anything I’d ever tasted. I left that dinner already plotting how I could experience it again.

But the food was only part of the experience. What truly touched me was the conversation. My friend’s father, an elderly man with a gentle demeanor, spoke only a few words of English. Yet, that didn’t stop him from engaging me in a heartfelt discussion about the political affairs of the Middle East, particularly his native Iran. His passion for his homeland was palpable, and though the conversation was heavy at times, it was filled with nuance and depth that you rarely find in media portrayals.

Poetry, Tears, and the Beauty of Persia

What moved me most was his love for Persian poetry. At one point, he began reciting a poem in Farsi, his voice trembling with emotion. His eyes welled up as he spoke, and though I couldn’t understand the words, I could feel the weight of their meaning. He asked his son to translate, and as the words unfolded, I was struck by the beauty of the poem—a tribute to the land, the people, and the enduring spirit of Iran.

In that moment, I realized how much the media fails to capture the essence of a culture. Iran, a country often depicted through a lens of conflict and division, is also a land of profound beauty, rich history, and deeply passionate people. My friend’s father wasn’t just sharing a poem; he was sharing a piece of his soul, a glimpse into the heart of a nation that is so much more than the headlines suggest.

Breaking Free from Media Narratives

This experience reinforced something I’ve come to believe more and more: the world is far better than what the media portrays. Every day, we’re fed a steady diet of divisive rhetoric, stories that pit people against each other, and narratives that amplify fear and misunderstanding. But the truth is, most people—no matter where they’re from—are kind, generous, and eager to connect.

As I continue to build my new life here in New Zealand, I’m reminded of the importance of seeking out these connections. I’ve made it a goal to save up for more travels, starting with exploring New Zealand from north to south. There’s so much to see, so many people to meet, and so many stories to uncover. Life is too short to stay stuck in one place, both physically and mentally.

A Call to Explore and Connect

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from this experience, it’s this: don’t let the media dictate how you see the world. If you have the time, money, and energy, go out and explore. Meet people from different cultures, try new foods, and listen to their stories. You’ll find that the world is far more beautiful and interconnected than you’ve been led to believe.

And if you ever get the chance to try Joojeh Kabab, don’t hesitate. But more importantly, savor the company of the people who share it with you. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the food—it’s about the connections we make and the memories we create along the way.

Here’s to breaking down barriers, one conversation and one meal at a time. The world is waiting, and it’s far more wonderful than you’ve been told.