Even in the Arab World, Libyans can stand apart. But we're really simple, if you keep a few things in mind:
1. People expect us to be off the wall crazy
We have a tongue-in-cheek saying about our ... ummmmmmmmm ... spirit of "innovation."
2. It isn't really necessary to remember anyone's name if you're Libyan.
Just call them cousin, and you're probably spot on.
3. We can speak Libyan in front of foreigners (including Arabic speakers) and tailor it so that it is nearly impossible for you to understand
This may change, as I am on a one-woman crusade to speak Libyan to other Arabs so it catches on. Put me on TV already dammit.
4. We have our own version of humor
Sometimes it is so elusive, I am still waiting for the punchline.
5. Most of us have a not easily defined charisma.
Be careful, because we can make you fall in love with us. We may not love you back, and some of us possess a mercurial nature.
6. We are very good at camouflaging an insult in the form of a compliment
7. Chances are if you're in between a rock and a hard place, your Libyan husband will figure out a way to blow one of them up using his "innovative" nature
Also works if you're ever accosted. People don't take into account our crazy Libyan-ness.
8. We're an explosive mix of backgrounds
If you're of mixed heritage, you have an easy excuse if you ever get caught in the midst of shenanigans. Everyone will blame your non-Libyan-ness.
9. No matter how much non-Libyan blood gets mixed in, we always retain our Libyan-ness
10. We never lack confidence
Misplaced or not, confidence is generally ingrained in us.
11. You'll never lack for conversation if you have one of us in your life.
And it is a talent that may or may not be eventually acquired, to decipher if your Libyan friend is angry/excited/surprised or just having a normal day.
12. Only one word is necessary to stop a debate with us: Hikee.
I'd say if you had to learn only one Libyan word, I'd highly recommend that one.
13. We are never wrong
No matter how much proof you present to the contrary.
14. Libyans have the uncanny ability to operate as quasi-intelligence agents
Sometimes not on purpose. Rest assured that if you ever mistakenly delete a pic or conversation, they usually have a backup.
15. Finally, if you are in possession of a piece of information and want it to spread like wildfire
Accuracy in doubt or not, simply tell a Libyan.
This post is a StepFeed Community post, written by a guest contributor. Alaa Badi also blogs at Lala's Ramblings . If you’re interested in contributing to the StepFeed Community, please contact hello@stepfeed.com.