Being a Lebanese kid is quite basically about being tortured by our parents in the most innovative ways possible.
Sometimes, you don't even need to share your story with others. A photo of the "weapon" alone can bring back so many memories.
You know you’re Lebanese if you can relate to:
1. The Slipper aka Shahatta
You’ve guessed it, the ultimate parental disciplinary device.
2. “Ya 3ayboo”
When you cover your eyes pretending not to know what explicit physical contact between two adults means in the presence of your parents.
3. "I don't dance"
You will find this supposedly shy person at every wedding, family gathering, or party. But just give them a minute or two to warm up and watch as they transform into the John Travolta of the Arab world!
4. "Tyeb el Eid"
Only in Lebanon do you buy your new holiday clothes two months ahead and wait impatiently to wear them on that day because "tyeb el eid lal eid BAS."
5. “Emta 7a nefra7 menik?”
Every girl’s nightmare: Being constantly harassed by her relatives regarding her relationship status.
Hey girl, don't worry about they say. It's your choice and your choice alone.
6. When good manners get in the way
Right when you’re about to leave after a long visit, your mother and the neighbour go for a new conversation right at the door.
So, you just end up waiting, and waiting and waiting because manners and, well, 3ayb.
7. "When I was your age"
Your parents like to constantly remind you that they had it much worse than you do and were able to overcome all obstacles in a shorter timespan.
May we remind our parents though that back then capitalism wasn't as vicious as it is today and jobs were more abundant. Thanks very much.
8. Not knowing whether to go for 2 or 3 kisses
That awkward two-second pause you have to skilfully pull off when you don’t know whether you should go for a 3rd kiss or just stick to 2.
9. “Kenna nlabbeskon ahla tyeb”
Obviously.